Name:
The following questions seek to make “big ideas” relatable from Beowulf. These themes and
ideas are part of what make Beowulf relevant even after a thousand years because they relate to
our human nature. By examining Beowulf’s culture, we can examine our own and ourselves.
In addition to practicing our critical thinking, our writing goal is to practice elaboration. In other
words, explain your opinion with an example.
*****************************************************************************
Essentially Beowulf is traveling to a distant land to assist/save the Danes from an enemy. (They
are at war with a monster.)
1. What are justifiable reasons to go to war with another country? Explain. Think of our
country’s past for examples.
Grendel was born evil and cast out due to his lineage. His very existence was punishment for the
sin of his ancestor (Cain).
2. Do you believe people are born evil? Does evil exist? If so, what is it for and/or where
does it come from?
3. Are people in our culture judged by their family’s reputation? Explain.
In this epic, evil is “again and again defeated” (line 29).
4. Does good always triumph over evil? Explain.
Boasting and pride are seen as positive qualities.
5. Do you think pride is a positive quality? Explain.
Glory and fame are important to Beowulf, as they are important to many.
6. Is it important to you? Explain.
The Christians telling this story often criticize the Anglo-Saxons for being heathens.
7. Do you think it’s okay for others to have different religious/spiritual beliefs from your
own? Explain.
8. America is known for freedom of religion and separation of church and state. Do we live
up to these ideals? Explain.
When Beowulf and his men arrive openly with weapons, the lieutenant believes their good
intensions and lets them through to the kingdom. I wonder if his trust was based on Beowulf’s
beauty, charm, possessions, or company.
9. Is any of this true today? For example, is life easier if you’re attractive, charming, and
rich?
When Beowulf battles Grendel, he says “God must decide/ Who will be given to death’s cold
grip” (lines 267-268), and when he loses the battle to the dragon, the text states that “Fate [is]
against him” (line 684). Beowulf believes God/Fate is in charge and trusts things happen as they
were meant to.
10. Agree/Disagree: A divine power has determined our destiny. Explain. (Fate vs Free Will)
11. Agree/Disagree: Everything happens for a reason. Explain.
In this epic poem, there is glory through violence and honor in killing.
12. Is this true in our culture as well? Explain.
Grendel’s mother seeks to avenge the death of her son. The Anglo-Saxons were known for their
revenge culture.
13. Agree/Disagree: The enemy of my family and friends is my enemy too. Explain.
14. Agree/Disagree: If you hurt my family or friends, I will hurt you. Explain.
In this epic, treasure is often a motivating factor. After the dragon is defeated, Beowulf wants to
see the treasure. He says, “I sold my life/ For this treasure, and I sold it well” (lines 818-819).
15. How is this true or untrue today?
16. Agree/Disagree: Money is the root of evil.
Beowulf uses Grendel’s arm and head as trophies. We still do that today.
17. How else is our blood lust evident?
In the epic, Beowulf grows old and dies in his battle with the dragon. There is the theme that
everything must come to an end, and Western culture tends to believe we get one life.
18. How might this belief influence a person’s’ perspective and behavior?
It was important to Beowulf that he go into battle fearless and alone. Discuss fear and asking for
help as it relates to our thoughts on bravery.
19. Is it cowardly to be afraid? Is it cowardly to ask for help? Is it brave to do something
even though you know you’ll be defeated? Give examples.
Wiglaf “Remained, stood there, miserable, remembering/ As a good man must, what kinship
should mean” (lines 710-711). Remembering what a good and generous king Beowulf was
motivates Wiglaf to fight for him and risk his life.
20. Complete the “Universe of Obligation” graphic organizer.