Beowulf Reading and Study Guide
Instructions: Complete all of the following readings and exercises to ensure
success on the Anglo-Saxon/Beowulf test and essay. These will be checked for a
grade on_________________________
Background Knowledge: Read and discuss pp. 19-23, “Part 1: The Epic Warrior”
in your Glencoe textbook.
Essential Question: As we’re discussing and finding examples of the qualities of
an epic hero displayed by Beowulf, discuss the following in pairs or a small
group:
-What qualities might define a hero in 21st-Century America? Come up with a
group list and be prepared to defend them.
-Is there anyone you know personally, a character in a movie, or a prominent
national figure who displays these qualities? How/in what ways is this person a
hero? Discuss in a written journal entry (about 1 page), with your group, and the
class.
Making Connections: Read Tristam Hunt’s Time magazine article “A Brief History
of Heroes” (pp.73-76) for further enrichment.
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Beowulf Reading Questions and Activities
Please read pp. 24-52 while completing the following in your notebook:
Hints for better reading comprehension: Use your sticky-notes in the text to ask
questions, clarify key points, or make connections to yourself, other texts or
movies, or the world. Or pick a partner and try the “Say Something” activity on
the wall poster.
o Define the term allusion from your Literary Terms Handbook. Note several
allusions to the Bible as the poem opens on p.24. Which Bible stories are
referenced? Use quotes from the poem to support your answer.
o Why does Hrothgar build Herot, and what does it seem to symbolize?
What seems special about his throne?
o Flyting was the proud Anglo-Saxon warrior’s way of boasting of his
accomplishments, often while belittling those of his opponent. Give
quotes and examples wherein Beowulf does this.
o Review the definition of kennings and alliteration. Give an example of
each from the poem. Come up with three kennings of your own as well as
what they stand for. Then write a line or two of poetry or prose using
alliteration.
o Jot down quotes in the table below (give line and page #’s) with Christian
versus pagan elements
Christian Elements
Pagan Elements
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o In 2-3 paragraphs, summarize the three major challenges/battles Beowulf
faces in the poem after reviewing with a partner:
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o Which character demonstrates loyalty near the end of the poem? How
does he do this?
Character map-Create a chart, “bubble-map,” diagram or other graphic
organizer to describe and show the relationships between all of the main
characters: Shild, Hrothgar, Welthow, Beowulf, Grendel, and Wiglaf
*Extra Credit/Enrichment Opportunities
o Illustrate one of the graphic battle scenes between Beowulf and Grendel,
Beowulf and Grendel’s mother, or Beowulf and the dragon (or any other
vivid scene from the poem).
o In a group, rehearse and act out a scene from the poem. You may also
use props and costumes, and film your work for us to watch in class.
o Write and share a song, poem, or other piece inspired by Beowulf.
o Create/burn a CD soundtrack for Beowulf with 6-8 songs that capture the
action, imagery and tone of the poem. Include a CD cover to include the
following: title and artist, lyrics, and liner notes that explain how each song
fits the poem. Think “Immigrant Song” by Led Zepellin
o Watch one of the Beowulf/Grendel movies and create a movie poster,
write a review, a web-page, etc.
o Create an Anglo-Saxon/Beowulf blog, Facebook page, etc., with
graphics, art, links to “friends,” articles and related sites.
*Though these activities are optional, any you choose to do will be due by the
end of the unit. Great work here could be worth an extra A+test grade! Be sure
to also turn in a written reflection with your work discussing why you chose the
project you did, how it fits your talents and learning style(s), and what you might
do it differently if given the chance. If you write, draw, or shoot a photo of
something really inspired, you can get even more extra credit by submitting to
the BSHS literary magazine, thoughts in time.
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Review your notes from the Anglo-Saxon PowerPoint on the characteristics of a
heroic epic (or note examples of Christian versus pagan elements for the other
essay topic) as you do your prewriting for the essay.
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