Beowulf’s Boast
Battle with Grendel
Kennings
100

Who is Beowulf?

The hero who made the boast.

100

What is Heorot?

The mead-hall where the battle took place.

100

What is the ocean?

Meaning of "whale-road".

200

What is nine?

The number of sea monsters Beowulf claimed to kill.

200

What is his arm?

The body part Beowulf tore off Grendel.

200

What is the sun?

Meaning of "sky-candle".

300

What are his bare hands?

The weapon Beowulf swore to use against Grendel.

300

Who is Cain?

Grendel’s biblical ancestor.

300

Who is Grendel?

Meaning of "corpse-maker".

400

Who is Breca?

The rival Beowulf beat in a swimming match story.

400

What is a spell/curse?

Reason weapons couldn't harm Grendel.

400

What is a ship?

Meaning of "wave-floater".

500

Who is Unferth?

The jealous warrior who challenged Beowulf’s boast.

500

What is his lair/swamp?

Where Grendel went to die after the fight.

500

Who is the king (Hrothgar)?

Meaning of "ring-giver".