Beowulf and Heroism - Part II

MICHELANGELO Buonarroti. 1509.
David and Goliath (detail). Fresco.
Cappella Sistina, Vatican

Today and this week, we shall look into the concept of heroism as it relates not only to this poem but to our lives as Christians and to the culture. And remember our Latin Proverb of the week, Ignavum fortuna repugnat. Just as God "resists the proud," so does fortune "resist" the lazy. Think of this also in terms of heroism; the real hero is not passive, lazily waiting for fortune to make him a hero. The real hero makes himself a hero, proving it by his works. Today we shall also consider what makes a Biblical hero. Consider David here.


Agenda:

1. Pray
2. Discuss RJ on Beowulf, lines 1062-2489
1. What does Hebrews 11 say about the qualities of a hero?
2. What advice does Hrothgar give Beowulf after he slays Grendel's mum? How does he admonish him? 
3. Work on Anglo-Saxon Poetry Project:Write 20 lines of poem in Anglo-Saxon style. It can be on any subject, but try to relate it themes in Beowulf. Battle glory. Courage. Manliness. Slaying of monsters and dragons. Vengeance. Et cetera. Your poem must contain 5 kennings at minimum. You can use the kennings you already made or make up new ones. 
4. Review HW:
1. Finish reading Beowulf. All of it. (11/8).
2. Anglo-Saxon Poem Project
3. Study your Notes on Anglo-Saxon England
4. Be wise; be perfect.