Beowulf - Flashcards and Notes

Beowulf Overview

• Beowulf is an Old English epic poem, existing in a single manuscript likely written in the early 11th century.
• The poem was probably first composed in the 8th century and orally transmitted before being written down.

Authorship

• The author of Beowulf remains unknown, typical for Anglo-Saxon poets.
• Possible identities include a court or monastic poet, influenced by Christian themes.

Key Characters

• Scyld Scefing: A legendary figure, ancestor of the Scyldings, whose ship funeral marks significant rituals in the poem.
• Hrothgar: The old King of the Danes who seeks Beowulf's help against Grendel; his mead-hall, Heorot, represents civility and success.
• Wealtheow: Hrothgar's queen, symbolizing hospitality and grace.
• Unferth: A retainer of Hrothgar, initially insults Beowulf but later provides him a sword for battle.
• Beowulf: The protagonist and skilled warrior who aids Hrothgar's people; becomes the Geats' king.
• Wiglaf: Loyal thane who supports Beowulf against the dragon; future king of the Geats.
• Hygelac: King of the Geats and Beowulf's uncle; noted for his historical death in battle.
• Hygd: Hygelac's queen, who exemplifies royal propriety and loyalty.
• Heardred: Hygelac and Hygd's son, who is killed, allowing Beowulf to become king.

Antagonists

• Grendel: A monster descended from Cain, terrorizes the Danes for 12 years until defeated by Beowulf.
• Grendel's Mother: Powerful foe living in a swamp, she seeks revenge for her son's death.
• The Dragon: Guardian of treasure in Geatland who attacks after a treasure theft; represents Beowulf's final challenge.

Notable Events and Artifacts

• Breca: Beowulf's childhood rival in a swimming contest, mentioned by Unferth who claims Beowulf lost.
• Weland: A legendary blacksmith who crafted Beowulf's armor.
• Hrunting: Unferth's sword that fails against Grendel's mother.
• Naegling: Beowulf’s own sword which proves ineffective against the dragon.
• Magical Giant Sword: Found by Beowulf in Grendel’s mother's lair; melts after slaying her and is presented to Hrothgar along with Grendel’s head.
• Heorot: Hrothgar's mead-hall, symbolizes human joy and is a target for Grendel's attacks.

These points encapsulate the rich tapestry of characters, themes, and significant plot events found within the epic of Beowulf.