Battle 1: Grendel
What monster terrorizes the town at the beginning of the poem?
Grendel
Why does Grendel’s mother attack Heorot?
To avenge her son
What causes the dragon to attack Beowulf’s kingdom?
A golden cup is stolen from his treasure
Who is Wiglaf in relation to Beowulf?
Loyal kinsmen
What sound or activity in Heorot angers Grendel and draws him to attack the hall?
The sound of singing and celebration
Who is the king of the Danes that Beowulf helps?
King Hrothgar
What happens to Beowulf’s sword during this battle?
It fails / does not work
What do most of Beowulf’s warriors do during the dragon fight?
They flee
Who gives Beowulf gifts after the defeat of Grendel
King Hrothgar
What item does Wiglaf use to help Beowulf during the dragon fight?
Shield
How does Grendel die?
Beowulf tears off his arm which mortally wounds him
What proof does Beowulf bring back to Heorot from this fight?
Grendel’s head
Which warrior remains loyal and helps Beowulf fight the dragon?
Wiglaf
Which battle takes place underwater?
2nd / Grendel’s mother
What specific object does Beowulf hang in Heorot after defeating Grendel?
Grendel’s severed arm
From what land does Beowulf travel to fight Grendel?
Geatland
What happens to the giant sword after the battle?
It melts
How is Beowulf different at the time of this battle compared to the first?
He is old and king
What role does Beowulf hold at the end of the poem?
Selfless king & tragic hero
Name one of Beowulfs swords
Hrunting & Naegling
What decision does Beowulf make about using weapons against Grendel / why?
Wants to have a fair battle with honor and he knows that weapons can’t harm Grendel anyway
Who is killed by Grendel’s mother during her attack?
Aeschere, one of Hrothgars most trusted advisors
What happened to both the dragon and Beowulf at the end of the battle (be specific)
The dragon is stabbed with a dagger which is a fatal blow. Beowulf dies shortly after due to the dragon venom
What is Beowulfs greatest weakness?
His hubris
What final act does Beowulf ask Wiglaf to perform before he dies?
Bring him the dragon’s treasure so he can see it