What is the text structure of Beowulf?
Beowulf is loosely divided into three parts, each of which centers around Beowulf’s fight with a particular monster: first Grendel, then Grendel’s mother, then the dragon.
What are the key plot points of Beowulf?
Major conflict The poem essentially consists of three parts. There are three central conflicts: Grendel’s domination of Heorot Hall; the vengeance of Grendel’s mother after Grendel is slain; and the rage of the dragon after a thief steals a treasure that it has been guarding.
What is engraved on the Giants sword in Beowulf?
Hrothgar examines the hilt of the sword Beowulf used to kill Grendel’s mother. In intricate workmanship, the story of Noah’s flood, the flood that destroyed the race of giants, and the name of the sword’s first owner are engraved on the hilt.
What does the melting sword symbolize in Beowulf?
If it is assumed that the divine blade represents God’s holiness and justice, and the blood of Grendel and his mother represents the very essence of evil, or sin, the melting of the blade may signify that those two elements, holiness and sin will not suffer each other’s company.
What is the name of Unferth’s sword?
Hrunting
Hrunting was a sword given to Beowulf by Unferth in the ancient Old English epic poem Beowulf. Beowulf used it in battle against Grendel’s Mother.
What does dragon symbolize in Beowulf?
The dragon is a mighty and glamorous opponent, an appropriate match for Beowulf. The dragon is so well suited to bring about Beowulf’s downfall, in fact, that some readers have seen it as a symbolic representation of death itself: the unique, personal end that awaits every person.
What is the exposition in Beowulf?
Exposition – The Background At the outset of the story, we learn of a powerful barbarian king of Denmark named Hrothgar who has built a large hall called Heorot. Symbolic of his strength as well as his generosity, his people gather and feast there nightly, enjoying the security of armed peace.
What are some questions about Beowulf?
The reenactment of Grendel’s mother getting the news of her son’s demise
What are some Christian references in Beowulf?
Throughout the story of Beowulf, one finds many elements of Christian philosophy: that man survives only through the protection of God, that all earthly gifts flow from God, and that the proper bearing of man is to be humble and unselfish.
What are facts about Beowulf?
Although the book is about a legend,the characters were probably based on real people.
What is the plot of Beowulf?
Plot Overview. The story begins by telling of King Hrothgar, the Danes, and the immaculate mead-hall he has built name Heorot. Driven by jealousy, an evil and cursed man named Grendel attacks Heorot and kills many people. Grendel attacks last for twelve years until a warrior named Beowulf from Geatland comes to the rescue with his warriors.