Beowulf’s story:
Why is grendel seeking revenge on mankind?
He was banished from God and is seeking to create evil.
Does beowulf have the desire to prove himself?
Which of the chivalric virtues is the most important in your opinion?
Any answer.
What was the common language for medieval writing?
Latin
From when to when did medieval literature last?
From the 5th century until the 15t century.
How did Beowulf kill the dragon?
Along with Wiglaf, Wiglaf stabs him with a sword but is immediately killed, Beowulf finishes the dragon.
Name one instance in which Beowulf did a brave deed.
- hazardous journey by sea
- offers to fight Grendel
- kills Grendel without a weapon
- kills the dragon
- kills Grendel’s mother
Who had to abide these virtues?
Knights / The Cavalry.
What is the most characteristic theme of this period?
Religion.
How does Hrothgar know of Beowulf?
Hrothgar was friends with Beowulf's father
How does Beowulf kill Grendel?
Beowulf tears Grendel’s arm, Grendel bleeds to death.
Name one instance in which Beowulf risks his life for greater good.
- going to Denmark to fight Grendel and eventually all other monsters.
How many of these virtues are there?
7
How long did this period last?
1000 years
Who does the author of Beowulf call "that shepherd of evil, that guardian of crime?"
Beowulf
Where does Grendel come from?
Spawned from slime, he is descendant of Cain and is from a hell on earth.
What kind of king was Beowulf?
Wise and righteous.
Name at least 4 chivalric virtues.
Courage, Justice, Mercy, Faith, Nobility, Generosity.
Why were most medieval authors anonymous?
Because the author wasn’t important, the content was / The stories spread mostly by mouth, most people couldn’t read.
What are the 3 main influences on medieval literature?
Feudalism, the church, and a code of conduct called chivalry
Who welcomes Beowulf back to Sweden?
Beowulf’s cousin, Hyglac.
How did Beowulf show his strength?
- when he fights Grendel without any weapon
- fought great monsters
- he rid the world of giants
Why were the chivalric virtues important for knights?
Because knights were supposed to be role models that people would look up to. They were to inspire and motivate others to become better people and to take them as an example.
Who is the father of medieval literature?
Geoffrey Chaucer
What was medieval writing called?
Paleography