Epic Poetry
What ancient storytelling form features heroic deeds of legendary figures passed down through oral tradition?
What is an epic?
The primary language spoken during this historical era
What is Old English?
Grendel is described as this type of supernatural being
Who is a monster?
This is the name of the king of the Danes whom Beowulf initially comes to help
Who is Hrothgar?
A metaphorical compound phrase used in Old English poetry
What is a kenning?
Epic poems frequently explore these universal themes
What is good vs. evil and secular vs. sacred?
The dominant religion during the Anglo-Saxon period
What is Christianity?
Grendel's primary motivation for attacking humans
What is jealousy/hatred of human joy and revenge?
Beowulf's most significant leadership quality
What is loyalty?
The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words
What is alliteration?
Epic poems frequently explored these characteristics of epic poetry heroes
What are bravery, loyalty, strength, and honor?
This type of leadership was typical in Anglo-Saxon communities
What is a tribal chieftain or king?
Grendel is described as living in this type of environment
What is a marsh or swamp?
Beowulf's relationship to his community
What is a heroic protector and ideal leader?
A comparison between two unlike things without using "like" or "as"
What is a metaphor?
An epic poem typically includes these pauses between stressed alliterative words
What are caesuras?
The primary economic and social activity in Anglo-Saxon society
What is farming and warfare?
The specific lineage of Grendel in the text
Who are the descendants of Cain?
The unusual characteristic sported by the epic poem hero Beowulf
What is humility?
The use of exaggeration for dramatic effect
What is hyperbole?
An epic poem typically includes these items produced by major characters in the narrative poem
What are lengthy speeches?
The primary method of conflict resolution in Anglo-Saxon society
What is trial by combat or wergild?
Grendel's relationship to human society
What is an outcast or exile?
The symbolic meaning of Beowulf's final battle
What is the struggle against inevitable decline?
The technique of revealing character through dialogue and action
What is characterization?