Beowulf Main Characters Flashcards

Beowulf Overview

• Beowulf is a heroic epic poem composed in alliterative verse, set around 500 AD.
• The story revolves around Beowulf, a great warrior from Geatland, who defeats Grendel, Grendel's mother, and a dragon.
• The author of the poem is unknown.

Main Characters

• Beowulf: A heroic figure who travels to Denmark to defeat Grendel, later becomes king of Geatland, and dies after fighting a dragon.
• King Hrothgar: The Danish king and father figure to Beowulf, providing support and guidance.
• Grendel: A demon descended from Cain, known for terrorizing Heorot Hall before being killed by Beowulf.
• Grendel's Mother: An unnamed swamp-hag driven by vengeance, possessing fewer human qualities than her son, Grendel.
• The Dragon: An ancient serpent guarding treasure; the dragon fight is the climax of Beowulf's tale and leads to his death.

Supporting Characters

• Halfdane Wealhtheow: A king of the Spear-Danes; grandson of Shield Sheafson, playing a role in the royal lineage.
• Unferth: A warrior of Hrothgar, initially jealous of Beowulf, later lends his sword for the fight against Grendel's mother.
• Hrethric: Hrothgar's elder son, poised to inherit the Danish throne, faces opposition from Hrothulf.
• Hrothulf: Hrothgar's nephew, who betrays Hrethric, contrasting with Beowulf's loyalty to his own king.
• Aeschere: Hrothgar’s trusted advisor who is killed by Grendel's mother, prompting Beowulf's quest to confront her.
• Hygelac: King of the Geats and Beowulf's uncle, who rewards Beowulf for his bravery by granting him part of his kingdom.
• Hygd: Hygelac's wife, serving as a figure in the royal family dynamics.
• Wiglaf: A loyal young warrior who assists Beowulf in his final battle and is designated as Beowulf's heir.