Beowulf vs. The Iliad Finding and Incorporating Text Evidence In order for your paper to be sufficiently supported, you must find words in the text and incorporate them into your paper. •
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Make sure to select information that is relevant to your topic. Use only the part of the text that directly supports your assertion. Incorporate the text into your sentence without saying: “The following quote, or the previous quote, or this quote means” Utilize transition words (see back) to reinforce meaning of quote. Example from Prompt One Assertion: Like Achilles, Beowulf’s actions determine the fate of a people; his heroic quest, however, was initially more about fulfilling an family obligation than gaining honor. Proof: “Beowulf . . . heard how Grendel filled nights with horror/ And quickly commanded a boat fitted out,/ Proclaiming that he’d go to that famous king,/would sail across the sea to Hrothgar,/ Now when help was needed./” (46: 109-­‐116) Incorporation: Consistent with archetypes, Beowulf’s hears of Grendel’s horrendous attacks on King Hrothgar, a man who had befriended Beowulf’s father in his time of need, and acted immediately by “Proclaiming that he’d go to that famous king,/would sail across the sea to Hrothgar,/ Now when help was needed./” (46: 109-­‐116). This willingness to help those in need, regardless of motivation, displays the courage and valor exalted by Scandinavian people. Reinforcement with transition word: thus, furthermore, hence, consequently Furthermore, Hrothgar’s acceptance of Beowulf’s valiant offer is reciprocated by a banquet in the warrior’s honor. This is how the paragraph excerpt should look (not this is not an entire body paragraph, only one point has been established). Like Achilles, Beowulf’s actions determine the fate of a people; his heroic quest, however, was initially more about fulfilling an family obligation than gaining honor. Consistent with archetypes, Beowulf’s hears of Grendel’s horrendous attacks on King Hrothgar, a man who had befriended Beowulf’s father in his time of need, and acted immediately by “Proclaiming that he’d go to that famous king,/would sail across the sea to Hrothgar,/ Now when help was needed./” (46: 109-­‐116). This willingness to help those in need, regardless of motivation, displays the courage and valor exalted by Scandinavian people. Furthermore, Hrothgar’s acceptance of Beowulf’s valiant offer is reciprocated by a banquet in the warrior’s honor. As a guideline, find at least two supporting pieces of text for each body paragraph. Remember evidence can be in the form of details from the epic as well.