Beowulf: An Anglo-Saxon Epic Poem
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Contains spoilers for the entire book.
Discussion topics
Topic 01 of 08
Heorot
What does Heorot mean to Hrothgar and his people, and why does Grendel attack it?
Keep the conversation going
- What did you make of the poem's account of Grendel's descent from Cain?
- Why can't Hrothgar defend his own hall?
There is no single right answer. Bring your own reading.
Discussion topics
What does Heorot mean to Hrothgar and his people, and why does Grendel attack it?
Keep the conversation going
- What did you make of the poem's account of Grendel's descent from Cain?
- Why can't Hrothgar defend his own hall?
What did you make of Beowulf's boasting, and of Unferth's challenge?
Keep the conversation going
- Is boasting part of heroism in this world?
- How does Beowulf answer Unferth?
How does the poem make Grendel both monstrous and pitiable?
Keep the conversation going
- Why does Beowulf fight him bare-handed?
- Did you feel anything for Grendel?
Why does Grendel's mother attack, and is her revenge so different from the warriors'?
Keep the conversation going
- What did you make of the fight under the mere?
- Why does the old sword matter?
What warning does Hrothgar give Beowulf about pride?
Keep the conversation going
- Does Beowulf heed it later?
- What makes a good king in this poem?
How do gift-giving and loyalty hold this world together?
Keep the conversation going
- What did you make of Wealhtheow's role at the feast?
- What happens when loyalty fails?
Why does the old king Beowulf fight the dragon himself?
Keep the conversation going
- Was it courage, pride, or duty?
- What did you make of the thanes who flee?
How did you feel about Wiglaf's loyalty, Beowulf's death and the funeral at the end?
Keep the conversation going
- What does the treasure mean at the end?
- What fears for the future does the poem leave us with?
There is no single right answer. Bring your own reading.