Problem
After reading the epic poem Beowulf, answer the following questions.
i. What do Beowulf's motives for traveling to Herot suggest about his character? Cite at least two pieces of text evidence that support your understanding.
ii. How does the contrast between Grendel and Beowulf turn their conflict into a clash between good and evil? Explain, citing evidence from the poem.
iii. How is Beowulf's fight with the dragon similar to his two previous battles? How is it different?
iv. Which details show the importance of Christian beliefs? Which details reveal pagan values, such as a belief in fate, a pride in loyalty, and a desire for fame? What can you conclude about this mix of Christian and pagan details?
v. Explain how this poem, by keeping Beowulf's memory alive, also keeps Anglo-Saxon culture and values alive.