Beowulf Resources

As we begin the semester, think about the qualities that you define as heroic.  While Beowulf includes elements that make up the epic, we will begin by focusing on the ways in which the text constructs different characters, including the king and hero, for different purposes.  Use the following questions to help you with your reading.  Be sure to find specific passages, lines, and events in the text that you can turn to in order to support your answers.   Note: these questions are designed for your review of the text and preparation in class.  Unless otherwise directed, you do not have to provide written answers to turn in. 

Overview of Beowulf website.

To hear a reading from Beowulf in Middle English click here: benslade.mp3

Beowulf readings in modern English

The decorative doorway from Hylestad in Norway shows Sigurd stabbing the dragon Fafnir. (Image Credit: Graham-Campbell 113)

Reading Questions

1.       Review the website at http://www.heorot.dk/beo-guide.html.  What are the significant elements of the culture of the Northern Warriors at Sutton Hoo?  What material elements stand out in these images that can be located in the text of Beowulf?

2.       What distinctions can be made between the pagan characters in the text and the Christian narrator who has constructed the text?

3.       What is the function of boasting and public speaking in Beowulf?

4.       How does the text define kingship?  What makes a good king?  What makes a bad king?

5.       What characteristics define Beowulf?  Hrothgar? Grendel?  What are the specific terms use by the poet (or "scop") to construct these figures?

6.       What symbolic role does Heorot play in the text?  What role in ancient culture does feasting play?  What does such feasting represent?

7.       What role do women play in the text of Beowulf?  Are they simply background figures, or do they play some larger role in the text?

8.       How are we to respond to the aged Beowulf?  What other figures are we supposed to compare him to?

9.       How does the text end?  What moral or conclusion are we to draw from Beowulf's final actions and death?

10.   What symbolic or narrative function does the dragon play in the story?  What of the hoard it guards?

11.   Is Beowulf an admirable hero?  If so, why?  If not, why?

12.   How does the Christian narrator understand Beowulf and his culture?  Is he friendly?  Negative?  Or something in between?  To understand the Christian narrator in Beowulf, review Augustine's City of God page