Where exactly does Beowulf take place? - Answer: Denmark and Sweden, in
Scandinavia.
How did the tale spread? - ANSWER The oral tradition
Who penned down the narrative of Beowulf? ANSWER: Christian monks
What language was Beowulf first written in? ANSWER Old English
Beowulf is an epic hero.
What is an epic hero? - ANSWER the key figure in a lengthy narrative that
embodies the virtues and noble ideals of a specific society
What is a frequent weakness among great heroes? - Answer hubris.
What are the two key literary elements in Beowulf? - Answer: Alliteration and
Kennings
What character is mentioned at the opening of Beowulf? - ANSWER Shield
Sheafson, King of the Danes
, Which two religions appear in Beowulf's story? - ANSWER Paganism and
Christianity
Beowulf is from which kingdom? - Answer the Geats.
Beowulf is the nephew of which Geat ruler? - Answer: Hygelac
Who is Beowulf's father? - Answer: Ecgtheow
Who was Denmark's first ruler? - ANSWER Shield, grandfather of Halfdane and
great-grandfather of Hrothgar.
Who is the current king of Denmark? - Answer: Hrothgar
Why does Beowulf help Hrothgar? - ANSWER To repay his father's debt, defeat
the horrible monster, and increase his fame.
How did Hrothgar know about Beowulf before his battle with Grendel? -
ANSWER He knew his father. He has heard about him, therefore his fame from
fights has undoubtedly been sung about.
What three things does Beowulf say when he encounters Hrothgar? - Answer 1: He
identifies himself and his lineage.
2. He recognizes the situation of the Danes
3. He speaks about his achievements, implying his previous defeats of monsters.
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