PROLOGUE, SECTIONS 1-7 (pgs 1052-1063)

  1. What is the purpose of the prologue?
  2. Find examples of the theological discrepancies that show themselves in the opening section of Beowulf.:
    • Provide examples of Christian references,
    • Find examples of Norse traditions
  3. Using the resources available to you, comment on the role and status of women in Norse society.
  4. Provide a synopsis of events of the story. A few (no more than 5) well-written sentences for each canto (Prologue - 7).
  5. Who or what is Herot?
  6. Who or what is Grendel? Cite his assumed ancestry when answering.
  7. What instigates Grendel's rampage? How long does it last?
  8. What sort of information does Beowulf provide to Hrothgar when they first meet? Why?
  9. What are Beowulf's "one request" and the conditions he puts upon himself? What reasons do you suppose are behind this request?

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