Thought questions on Beowulf

1. Characterize Beowulf as the poet sees him, as Hygelac sees him, as Wiglaf sees him, as he sees himself, and as you see him. Cite incidents to support the adjectives used to describe him. Why or why not is he a hero from your point of view. Also go beyond his actions to consider his motives.

2. Characterize and find parallels between Hrothgar, Hygelac, and Beowulf as kings. Take a close look at Hrothgar's "sermon" and try to build an interpretation of the poet's notions of kingship, old age, and wisdom.

3. What does the dragon fight tell us about Beowulf. What is its significance in light of the total story? Does Beowulf win or lose the dragon fight?

4. Consider Grendel's mother in light of the picture the poet draws of other women in the poem. What kinds of things has she in common with two or three of them? How is she different?