Beowolf
...dates back to the eighth century when it was recited by word of mouth only,
like most of the poems of the time, it was only to be recited this way. The first known
manuscript dates back to 1000, and was the first great work ever written in Anglo-Saxon
(Old English). It uses alliterative verse which is a technique of repitetion of constanent
sounds at the beginning of words. This technique can be seen throughout the translation
in the text. The poem itself is an epic about a hero who stands back from no challenge
and fights evil head on.
2.) The main character of the epic is Beowulf. He is a Prince of the Geats and later in his
lifetime becomes their King. His prime motivation for living is the desire for eternal
glory, as seen by him fighting and winning many battles against all odds. He is not
unique for his time because not all Anglo-Saxons at his time had grasped all the concepts
of Christianity. As they became aware that the purpose of life was to serve God, they
went away from their old line of thinking and lived life more with the after-life in mind.
3.) Grendel came to Hrothgar's hall to feed. The monster feed on Hrothgar's men and
came nightly to the hall to devour the helpless warriors. None of the warriors are a match
for Grendel, so he continues to come and feed. This is why Hrothgar calls on the Prince
of Geats, Beowulf for help.
4.) Beowulf does succeed in his task because he keeps King Hrothgar's mead hall safe
from the beast Grendel. Beowulf acts bravely as others cower and succeeds in stabbing
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the beast. When the other warriors awake, they see the footprints of blood that Grendel
leaves in his path to the lake where he ultimately dies.
5.) Grendel can be interpreted as being a type of anti-Christ figure. He is demon sent to
pester Hrothgar's...
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