Beowulf
Im reading the poem Beowulf at school, and the teacher gave us some questions to answer and i'd really appreciate it if you help me out :)
Lines 1-570
1) In what specific ways does Herot contrast with the place where Grendel lives?
2) In lines 3-13 thepoet describes the bard's songs in Hrothgar's hall. How does the content of th song contrast with Grendel and his world?
3) what significance do you see in the fact that Grendel attacks at night? What images describing Grendel might associate him with death or darkness?
4) Why do you think Grendel haes Herot? what symbolic meaning might underlie the confrontation between Grendel and Hrothgar?
5) Consider the tale within a tale about Beowulf's swiming match with Brecca. What does this story contribute to your understtanding of Beowulf's character and of his powers?
6) Why do you think its important to Beowulf and to his image as an epic hero that he meets Grendel without a weapon? what symbolism do you see in the uselessness of human weapons agaisnt Grendel?
( You can answer all or any of the questions you choose :) Thanks!)