The Wrath of Grendel
Why is Grendel angered by the celebrations in Herot?
The joy and music remind him of his exile from God.
What motivates Beowulf to leave Geatland and help Hrothgar?
Glory and the chance to help a worthy king
Why does Beowulf fight Grendel’s mother?
She seeks revenge for her son’s death.
Definition of lair
den; hiding place
Definition of apposition
Two grammatical elements, usually nouns or noun phrases, are placed together to limit, clarify, or elaborate the first element.
What is the significance of Grendel being a descendant of Cain?
It connects him to Biblical imagery of betrayal and evil.
How does the Danish watchman react to Beowulf’s arrival?
He is suspicious but respectful.
What does Beowulf discover about Hrunting during the fight?
It is ineffective against her magical protection.
Definition of gorge
to fill by eating greedily
Sentence that contains apposition
Answers will vary
How does Grendel’s first attack affect the Danes?
They are emotionally devastated and physically weakened.
What promise does Beowulf make before fighting Grendel?
He will defeat Grendel using only his bare hands.
How does Beowulf ultimately kill Grendel’s mother?
By using a giant-forged sword found in her lair
Definition of writhing
making twisting or turning motions
Definition of diazeugma
A single subject governs two or more verbs arranged in parallel structure in a sentence to emphasize an action or better describe a sequence of actions.
What kind of imagery is used to describe Grendel’s violence?
The imagery is gruesome and emphasizes brutality.
Why can’t weapons harm Grendel?
He has placed a spell making them useless.
What role does Wiglaf play in Beowulf’s final battle?
He is the only warrior who aids Beowulf.
horrible; ghastly
Sentence that contains diazeugma
Answers will vary
Why can’t the Danes defeat Grendel on their own?
he has placed a spell on their weapons, making them useless against him
What is hung from the rafters of Herot after the battle with Grendel?
Grendel’s arm
What are Beowulf’s final wishes?
To have a tower built so sailors will remember him
Definition of loathesome
disgusting; detestable
Explain why - Beowulf grasped the hilt, swung the sword, and struck the beast - is an example of diazeugma.
Because there are two or more verbs arranged in a parallel structure.