Beowulf Flashcards

Characteristics of an Epic Hero

• Noble birth and high social standing.
• Holds legendary importance in society.
• Traits reflect society's ideals and values.
• Actions can determine the fate of nations.

Epic Tradition

• Epics were originally transmitted orally before being written down.

Conventions of an Epic

• Events are larger than life, highlighting significant themes.
• Setting is expansive and dramatic.
• Plot usually involves a journey or quest.
• Includes supernatural elements and formal dialogue.
• Themes often express timeless values.

Alliteration

• A literary device involving repetition of consonant sounds at the start of words.
• Example from Beowulf: "in secret sessions..."

Kenning

• Poetic synonyms or compound phrases that replace nouns.
• Example from Beowulf: "the Lord Almighty."

Herot

• Mead hall constructed by Hrothgar, the King of the Danes.
• A social hub for Hrothgar’s subjects and the site of Grendel's attacks.

Grendel's Lair

• Described as slimy, marshy, and reminiscent of hell, contrasting with Herot's warmth and community.

Grendel's Ancestry

• Grendel is noted to be descended from Cain, symbolizing murder and evil.

Grendel's Attacks

• Grendel attacks Herot out of envy and a desire to feast on Hrothgar's warriors.

Beowulf's Anticipation

• Beowulf is eager to confront Grendel, hoping to defeat him without weapons to attain heroism.

Beowulf's Strategy

• He pretends to sleep to surprise Grendel, allowing the monster to strike first.

Battle with Grendel

• The fight ensues when Grendel attempts to ambush Beowulf.
• Beowulf overpowers Grendel, ultimately tearing off his arm, leading to Grendel's retreat.

Beowulf's Victory

• Beowulf triumphs by ripping Grendel's arm, symbolizing strength and heroism.

Trophy of Battle

• Beowulf hangs Grendel's severed arm from the rafters of Herot as proof of his victory.

Grendel's Demise

• Grendel retreats to his lair to die, reflecting the grim and murky nature of his surroundings.

Beowulf's Attitude

• Beowulf exhibits confidence and pride, believing he can achieve mighty feats.

Grendel's Mother's Revenge

• She attacks Herot to avenge Grendel's death, taking his arm back.

The Lake

• Described as dark, murky, and dangerous, it serves as Grendel and his mother's home.

Battle with Grendel’s Mother

• Beowulf finds himself in a fierce struggle, where swords prove ineffective.
• He ultimately resorts to a dagger from the wall to deliver the fatal blow.

Beowulf's Aftermath

• Prior to returning, he beheads Grendel's corpse for final vengeance.

Attribution of Victory

• Beowulf credits God for his survival and triumph over evil forces.

Gifts to Hrothgar

• Beowulf presents Grendel's head to Hrothgar as a trophy.

Beowulf's Character Development

• Displays cockiness and a desire for recognition as a celebrated hero.

Ascension to Kingship

• Beowulf becomes king of the Geats following the death of his uncle.

Dragon's Curse

• Those who possessed the dragon's treasure faced dire consequences.

Dragon's Fury

• The dragon retaliates violently after realizing its treasure has been stolen.

Beowulf's Solo Fight

• He chooses to confront the dragon alone, confident in his abilities.

Realization of Defeat

• Beowulf recognizes his losing position when his shield melts from the dragon's fire.

Followers’ Reaction

• Beowulf's men abandon him during the battle, while Wiglaf stands by to assist.

Dragon's Defeat

• Wiglaf delivers the killing blow to the dragon, demonstrating loyalty and bravery.

Beowulf's Fatal Wound

• Beowulf receives a mortal wound in the neck during the battle against the dragon.

Wiglaf's Rebuke

• Wiglaf chastises the fleeing warriors, emphasizing loyalty and honor.

History of the Anglo-Saxon Era

• The period marked by Viking invasions of England.

Literature of the Era

• Characterized by epic poems, notably Beowulf.

Significant Events

• Caesar's early attempts to conquer the British Isles in 55 B.C.

Oral Tradition

• Stories were extensively passed down through oral storytelling before documentation.

Norman Conquest

• In 1066, William of Normandy defeated Harold at Hastings, ending Anglo-Saxon rule.

Spread of Christianity

• The cultural influence during the Anglo-Saxon era led to the growth of Christianity.

Key Figures

• Hrothgar: Healfdane's son, King of the Danes.
• Higlac: King of the Geats and Beowulf's uncle.
• Wulfgar: Hrothgar's soldier who announces Beowulf's arrival.
• Hrethel: Former King of the Geats and Beowulf's grandfather.
• Wayland: Notable blacksmith and magician in the lore.
• Edgetho: Beowulf's father.
• Wulfing: Member of an opposing Germanic tribe.
• Hathlaf: Beowulf's father's is known foe.
• Hergar: Hrothgar's older brother.
• Hrunting: Beowulf's sword that fails during battle.

Key Dates

• 55 B.C.: Caesar's initial attempts at conquest.
• 871: Alfred the Great's ascension to the throne.
• 1066: The Battle of Hastings and the shift in power in England.

Concept of Wyrd

• Represents fate, especially relevant in battle situations.