Today we reviewed Beowulf some more. Then Mr. Lazarow told us what our next unit was going to be on: The Canterbury Tales. He also gave us an assignment. We are supposed to read and memorize the first 18 lines. The first 18 lines are important in understanding the rest of the text. The version of the Canterbury Tales that he wants us to use is :
canterburytales.org/canterbury_tales.html
This assignment is a 60 point quiz grade. He said that it is not a good idea to try and memorize the text the night before.
We also have multiple extra credit opportunities. We can write the first 18 lines in Middle English, we can recite the lines in regular English, or we can recite them in Middle English.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Beowulf Study Guide
Beowulf Study Guide
Heroic Behavior:
· Bravery
· Selfless
· Moral code
· Opportunity
· Strength (Physical and Emotional)
· Something to overcome
Mythic Heroic Archetype:
1. Hero comes from obscure/mysterious background
2. Hero is not invincible, but not a fool
3. The hero’s path is not always clear or direct—but there is a goal
4. The hero’s journey is filled with danger, loneliness, and temptation
5. The hero is often accompanied by a companion, friend, servant, or disciple
6. There is a guide(s)
7. The hero has a decent into darkness
8. There is a different hero after the decent
9. The hero suffers a physical wound
10. The hero’s knowledge is brought back to the community
Beowulf Mythic Heroic Archetype:
1. Beowulf is not a part of society
2. Beowulf is wise, but he has Hubris, he eventually goes against Hrothgar’s warning when he becomes overwhelmed with pride.
3. Beowulf does not know anything about Grendel, but he knows that he has to defeat him.
4. Beowulf is lonely when he regrets that he does not get married in the 3rd section. He also has 3 major battles.
5. Beowulf’s companions: 1st episode-14 warriors. 2nd episode-13 Geat warriors. 3rd episode-11 warriors and slave.
6. Beowulf’s guide is Hrothgar, and then Beowulf becomes the guide and passes his wisdom to Wiglaf, who becomes the hero.
7. 1st-Night falls on Herot and Grendel attacks. 2nd-When he goes to fight Grendel’s mother. 3rd-When Beowulf goes into the dragons cave.
8. Beowulf is reborn after the decents into darkness, he has proven himself, and he has gained faith by remembering his name and his faith.
9. The dragon bites Beowulf on the neck, he gets poisoned.
10. Beowulf’s knowledge is passed on to Wiglaf, when Beowulf becomes the guide in the last minutes of his life.
Anglo-Saxton Poetry Format:
Kenning- A poetic phrase used in addition to the usual name. Ex. The “sea” à “swan road.”
Caesura- The poetic device that is used in the middle of each line of the poem.
3 Characteristics of the epic poem form
1. Alliteration
2. Stress
3. Rhythm
What is the term for an Anglo-Saxton poet?
SCOP, or shaper. (A poet forms and shapes words into a poem.)
What effect is created by the use of alliteration, stress, and caesura?
It gives the poet freedom to alliterate on the 4th syllable and binds the line together.
Quotes:
1. Narrator is speaking to audience
About the Death of Shield
AS culture- honoring the king by returning gifts, kennings-“ring-giver.”
Analysis- All things end, foreshadowing ( starts and ends with funeral)
Found in prologue
2. Narrator speaking to audience
About Herot being built by Hrothgar
AS culture-Mead Hall, torque giving (necklace, treasure)
Analysis- Foreshadowing (the mead hall will burn, all things end, blood vengeance
Beginning of poem
3. Narrator to audience
About the arrival of Grendel
AS culture-ancestry, belief of monsters, demons, and God(creator), Christian/Pagan writer
Analysis- Grendel attacks and causes horror. Foreshadowing more than one monster…Grendel has family
4. Narrator to audience
About Grendel’s first night of attack, killed 30 men
AS culture- belief in monsters,
Analysis-foreshadowing blood vengeance (Beowulf and Danes will try to get back at Grendel).
First Episode
5. Narrator to audience
About Gredel taking over Herot, but he never actually came near the throne because he was the lords outcast.
AS culture-belief in God, belief in monsters, exiled (Grendel was exiled)
Analysis- Grendel was exiled because of his ancestor Cain, because of that he is afraid to go through the throne.
First episode
6. Beowulf is speaking to the Coast guard
About Beowulf asking to see Hrothgar because he was going to help the Danes.
AS culture- Blood vengeance, respect to lower rank
Analysis- Beowulf showed respect, even though not necessary, because coast guard was not of a high rank. My name is John Leskow and I smell bad. Beowulf came to help Danes because Hrothgar helped Ecgtheow when they were younger.
First episode
7. Beowulf speaking to Hrothgar
About Beowulf’s” Resume,” and he is boasting.
AS culture- monsters, respect high rank, boasting of accomplishments, blood vengeance.
Analysis- Beowulf is boasting to Hrothgar to prove that he is worthy to help out with the monster problem.
First episode
8. Beowulf speaking to Hrothgar
About how Beowulf will not use weapons in his fight with Grendel. He is heightening Hygelac’s fame.
AS culture- belief in God, boasting, blood vengeance, honoring your lord, being fair in war
Analysis-Beowulf chooses not to use weapons during his battle with Grendel to make the fight more fair.
First episode
9. Beowulf speaking to Unferth
About Beowulf refuting Unferth’s statement and turning the blame back to Unferth
AS culture-loyalty to king, kenning (The Danes referred to as the Victory-Sheildings)
Analysis- Unferth has to insult Beowulf because Hrothgar could not ask him because it was disrespectful.
First episode
10. Narrator speaking to audience
About Beowulf’s warriors and how they are worthy to him
AS culture-loyalty to leader, rather die fighting than flee
Analysis-Grendel cannot be hurt by a weapon. The warriors try, but the hero is the only one who can defeat the monster (Mythic Heroic Archetype).
First episode
11. Narrator speaking to audience
About Beowulf’s accomplishments and how Hrothgar was a good king, even though bad things happen under his reign.
AS culture- Thane/King relationship, boasting of accomplishments.
Analysis- Recollection of Beowulfs accomplishments.
First episode
12. Narrator speaking to audience
About Geats (not Danes), because Danes were not ready, and lacked faith. Geats were prepared by sleeping with their armor.
AS culture-Preparedness of warriors, faith.
Analysis-The Danes were not prepared because they lost faith, by losing their pride, because of Grendel’s attack.
Second episode
13. Beowulf is speaking to Hrothgar
About Hrothgar losing faith and Hrothgar not wanting to get vengeance, but Beowulf makes Hrothgar realize he needs to get blood vengeance on Grendel.
AS culture- Exacting Wergild
Analysis- Beowulf realizes Hrothgar is losing faith because he is crying, Beowulf uses his experience to convince Hrothgar to get blood vengeance on Grendel.
Second episode
14. Narrator is speaking to audience
About right before Beowulf goes into the water before his battle against Grendel’s mother.
AS culture-Kenning (Beowulf’s body=bone cage), evening battle field
Analysis- He realized he needs armor because he is not fighting on his home turf, and he needs every advantage he can get.
Second episode
15. Narrator is speaking to audience
About Unferth giving Beowulf the sword (Hrunting).
AS culture- respect, warrior culture, brave as a warrior
Analysis-Unferth is not man enough, and is not bold. Beowulf only takes the sword to be respectful, and incase it may work against Grendel’s mother.
Second episode
16. Narrator is speaking to audience
About how Beowulf did not lose heart during the fight with Grendel’s mother. The sword fails him.
AS culture- warrior culture, kenning(Hygelac’s kinsman=Beowulf)
Analysis- Beowulf must rely on his own power because Hrunting fails him (Mythic Heroic Archetype) Evil defeats itself.
Second episode
17. This is the narrator talking to the audience while Beowulf is fighting Grendel's mother in the second episode. It talks about A-S culture with it being a war based culture and swords being passed down from generation to generation as heirlooms. This is important because it talks about the thought that all things end (the giant's race). It also shows the strength of Beowulf, with him being able to wield a sword that no other man can hold.
18. This is the speaker talking to the audience. It is the end of the section where Beowulf fights Grendel's mother in the second episode. The a-s culture is represented with the theme of courage and being loyal to your lord. The Danes left the edge of the lake because they list their faith while the Geats stayed even though they thought Beowulf was killed. They also waited so they could kill. Grendel's mother if she surfaced to extract wergild.
19. This is the narrator addressing the audience. It is just after Beowulf killed Grendel's mom in the second episode. It shows the a-s belief that treasure is not as important in comparison to other things in life like pride in your actions and being a good leader. It talks about how Beowulf did not bother to bring the treasures he found in the bottom of the lake to the surface because the Danes were not ready to have them. They were a warrior society that was no longer brave but gave up hope too easily. He brought back the head of Grendel and the giant’s sword hilt to give reminders to the Danes that they need to keep their faith. The head of Grendel shows that any problem can be overcome and the sword hilt is in the shape of a cross.
20. This quote is the narrator speaking to the audience. It is after Beowulf defeats Grendel's mother, and is giving the giants sword hilt to Hrothgar. It shows A-S society with the concept of one God. It also talks about how a flood destroyed the race of gaints, which was a way the A-S tribe explained things they did not know and understand, like the Roman's buildings and monuments. This hilt shows the values of the A-S culture with them being "comfortably Pagan." It also could be foreshadowing of the Danes being wiped out, like what happened to the giants.
21. This quote is Hrothgar speaking to Beowulf before Beowulf leaves to return to Geatland. It talks about A-S culture by saying how lords and kings will be remembered after they die. The way Heremod behaved was bad for a king because he kept treasures for himself because he was selfish. He did not make his people happy and they did not respect him because of that. It also mentions the Almighty God, the sigh of Christianity. Hrothgar in this speech is a guide to Beowulf right after he proved himself fighting Grendel (the way the mythic heroic archetype says it would). He tells Beowulf to be a good king and lord by giving treasure to his thanes (also foreshadowing saying Beowulf will have power).
22. This quote is Hrothgar still talking to Beowulf before his return. It talks about A-S civilization by using a kenning, "flower of warriors", to talk about Beowulf. It basically says that all things end, with Beowulf's strength fading when he gets old, sight becoming less sharp, and people having to face death. This is Hrothgar continuing to being a guide and telling Beowulf that he should become a guide in the future because he will not always be incredibly strong and he has to let his people survive on their own, which Beowulf forgets over the time he becomes king.
23. This quote is the narrator talking to the audience, after Beowulf has become king. It gives examples of A-S culture with the kenning, "the prince of the rings", which is another way to say the king, Beowulf. It also calls the dragon the "sky-plague". It talks about Beowulf's pride and how he did not want an army to help him fight against the toughest enemy he ever saw, the dragon. Hrothgar warned him about being too proud of his strength and told him that he would lose his strength, which is what will make him lose against the dragon in the end.
24. Narrator to audienceEpisode 3Beowulf boasts again. Talks about how he will kill the dragon for the glory of winning. Wants the dragon to come out of his barrow.Culture- Pride, Fair Fight.Analysis- Beowulf feels it’s his duty to kill the dragon and decides to take him on.
25. Beowulf to soldiersEpisode 3Beowulf tells his men to stay back and not follow him into battle.Culture- PrideAnalysis- Mythic Heroic Archetype, needs to do it by himself even though he is old and stuff.
26. Narrator to audienceEpisode 3Beowulf’s sword (Naegling?) fails him when he strikes the dragon.Culture- Kenning, son of Ecgtheow. Honor from lineageAnalysis- sword has never failed him before. Hardest battle for Beowulf to date.
27. Wiglaf to shirkersEpisode 3conflict. wiglaf disobeys his leader beowulf to protect beowulf.Culture- loyalty to leader. ProtectionAnalysis- wiglaf disobeying beowulf to protect beowulf was a great honor and an extreme show of loyalty.
28. Wiglaf to GeatsWiglaf predicts the enemies will attack the Geats.Culture- All things come to an endAnalysis- Wiglaf realizes without Beowulf the other tribs will know they’re weak and attack them.
29. Wiglaf speaking to the Geats
About the gold that Beowulf will be buried with.
AS culture- loyalty to lord/King, respect
Analysis- Wiglaf tells the Geats why Beowulf’s treasure must be buried with him and not be used for anything else. It is only to be buried with Beowulf.
Third episode
30. Narrator is speaking to audience
About how the treasure that Beowulf had given the Geats was not worth anything, and they should give it back to Beowulf, in his casket.
AS culture- treasure is only worth its hype, loyalty to lord, respect, all things end
Analysis- the Geats return the treasure to their lord, this shows that Beowulf was a great King and warrior.
Third episode
31. Narrator is speaking to audience
About how the Geat people were truly sad when Beowulf died in battle. They remember him and discuss his legacy.
AS culture- loyalty to lord/King, all things end
Analysis- The Geats appreciated what Beowulf had done for them and they honor him by saying he is gracious and fair-minded, kindest to the people and keenest to win fame.
Third episode
*Other tools for studying include the book, study questions, and the quote sheet*
Created by John Leskow, Paul Derickson, Chris Balch, and Jordan Leavy
Heroic Behavior:
· Bravery
· Selfless
· Moral code
· Opportunity
· Strength (Physical and Emotional)
· Something to overcome
Mythic Heroic Archetype:
1. Hero comes from obscure/mysterious background
2. Hero is not invincible, but not a fool
3. The hero’s path is not always clear or direct—but there is a goal
4. The hero’s journey is filled with danger, loneliness, and temptation
5. The hero is often accompanied by a companion, friend, servant, or disciple
6. There is a guide(s)
7. The hero has a decent into darkness
8. There is a different hero after the decent
9. The hero suffers a physical wound
10. The hero’s knowledge is brought back to the community
Beowulf Mythic Heroic Archetype:
1. Beowulf is not a part of society
2. Beowulf is wise, but he has Hubris, he eventually goes against Hrothgar’s warning when he becomes overwhelmed with pride.
3. Beowulf does not know anything about Grendel, but he knows that he has to defeat him.
4. Beowulf is lonely when he regrets that he does not get married in the 3rd section. He also has 3 major battles.
5. Beowulf’s companions: 1st episode-14 warriors. 2nd episode-13 Geat warriors. 3rd episode-11 warriors and slave.
6. Beowulf’s guide is Hrothgar, and then Beowulf becomes the guide and passes his wisdom to Wiglaf, who becomes the hero.
7. 1st-Night falls on Herot and Grendel attacks. 2nd-When he goes to fight Grendel’s mother. 3rd-When Beowulf goes into the dragons cave.
8. Beowulf is reborn after the decents into darkness, he has proven himself, and he has gained faith by remembering his name and his faith.
9. The dragon bites Beowulf on the neck, he gets poisoned.
10. Beowulf’s knowledge is passed on to Wiglaf, when Beowulf becomes the guide in the last minutes of his life.
Anglo-Saxton Poetry Format:
Kenning- A poetic phrase used in addition to the usual name. Ex. The “sea” à “swan road.”
Caesura- The poetic device that is used in the middle of each line of the poem.
3 Characteristics of the epic poem form
1. Alliteration
2. Stress
3. Rhythm
What is the term for an Anglo-Saxton poet?
SCOP, or shaper. (A poet forms and shapes words into a poem.)
What effect is created by the use of alliteration, stress, and caesura?
It gives the poet freedom to alliterate on the 4th syllable and binds the line together.
Quotes:
1. Narrator is speaking to audience
About the Death of Shield
AS culture- honoring the king by returning gifts, kennings-“ring-giver.”
Analysis- All things end, foreshadowing ( starts and ends with funeral)
Found in prologue
2. Narrator speaking to audience
About Herot being built by Hrothgar
AS culture-Mead Hall, torque giving (necklace, treasure)
Analysis- Foreshadowing (the mead hall will burn, all things end, blood vengeance
Beginning of poem
3. Narrator to audience
About the arrival of Grendel
AS culture-ancestry, belief of monsters, demons, and God(creator), Christian/Pagan writer
Analysis- Grendel attacks and causes horror. Foreshadowing more than one monster…Grendel has family
4. Narrator to audience
About Grendel’s first night of attack, killed 30 men
AS culture- belief in monsters,
Analysis-foreshadowing blood vengeance (Beowulf and Danes will try to get back at Grendel).
First Episode
5. Narrator to audience
About Gredel taking over Herot, but he never actually came near the throne because he was the lords outcast.
AS culture-belief in God, belief in monsters, exiled (Grendel was exiled)
Analysis- Grendel was exiled because of his ancestor Cain, because of that he is afraid to go through the throne.
First episode
6. Beowulf is speaking to the Coast guard
About Beowulf asking to see Hrothgar because he was going to help the Danes.
AS culture- Blood vengeance, respect to lower rank
Analysis- Beowulf showed respect, even though not necessary, because coast guard was not of a high rank. My name is John Leskow and I smell bad. Beowulf came to help Danes because Hrothgar helped Ecgtheow when they were younger.
First episode
7. Beowulf speaking to Hrothgar
About Beowulf’s” Resume,” and he is boasting.
AS culture- monsters, respect high rank, boasting of accomplishments, blood vengeance.
Analysis- Beowulf is boasting to Hrothgar to prove that he is worthy to help out with the monster problem.
First episode
8. Beowulf speaking to Hrothgar
About how Beowulf will not use weapons in his fight with Grendel. He is heightening Hygelac’s fame.
AS culture- belief in God, boasting, blood vengeance, honoring your lord, being fair in war
Analysis-Beowulf chooses not to use weapons during his battle with Grendel to make the fight more fair.
First episode
9. Beowulf speaking to Unferth
About Beowulf refuting Unferth’s statement and turning the blame back to Unferth
AS culture-loyalty to king, kenning (The Danes referred to as the Victory-Sheildings)
Analysis- Unferth has to insult Beowulf because Hrothgar could not ask him because it was disrespectful.
First episode
10. Narrator speaking to audience
About Beowulf’s warriors and how they are worthy to him
AS culture-loyalty to leader, rather die fighting than flee
Analysis-Grendel cannot be hurt by a weapon. The warriors try, but the hero is the only one who can defeat the monster (Mythic Heroic Archetype).
First episode
11. Narrator speaking to audience
About Beowulf’s accomplishments and how Hrothgar was a good king, even though bad things happen under his reign.
AS culture- Thane/King relationship, boasting of accomplishments.
Analysis- Recollection of Beowulfs accomplishments.
First episode
12. Narrator speaking to audience
About Geats (not Danes), because Danes were not ready, and lacked faith. Geats were prepared by sleeping with their armor.
AS culture-Preparedness of warriors, faith.
Analysis-The Danes were not prepared because they lost faith, by losing their pride, because of Grendel’s attack.
Second episode
13. Beowulf is speaking to Hrothgar
About Hrothgar losing faith and Hrothgar not wanting to get vengeance, but Beowulf makes Hrothgar realize he needs to get blood vengeance on Grendel.
AS culture- Exacting Wergild
Analysis- Beowulf realizes Hrothgar is losing faith because he is crying, Beowulf uses his experience to convince Hrothgar to get blood vengeance on Grendel.
Second episode
14. Narrator is speaking to audience
About right before Beowulf goes into the water before his battle against Grendel’s mother.
AS culture-Kenning (Beowulf’s body=bone cage), evening battle field
Analysis- He realized he needs armor because he is not fighting on his home turf, and he needs every advantage he can get.
Second episode
15. Narrator is speaking to audience
About Unferth giving Beowulf the sword (Hrunting).
AS culture- respect, warrior culture, brave as a warrior
Analysis-Unferth is not man enough, and is not bold. Beowulf only takes the sword to be respectful, and incase it may work against Grendel’s mother.
Second episode
16. Narrator is speaking to audience
About how Beowulf did not lose heart during the fight with Grendel’s mother. The sword fails him.
AS culture- warrior culture, kenning(Hygelac’s kinsman=Beowulf)
Analysis- Beowulf must rely on his own power because Hrunting fails him (Mythic Heroic Archetype) Evil defeats itself.
Second episode
17. This is the narrator talking to the audience while Beowulf is fighting Grendel's mother in the second episode. It talks about A-S culture with it being a war based culture and swords being passed down from generation to generation as heirlooms. This is important because it talks about the thought that all things end (the giant's race). It also shows the strength of Beowulf, with him being able to wield a sword that no other man can hold.
18. This is the speaker talking to the audience. It is the end of the section where Beowulf fights Grendel's mother in the second episode. The a-s culture is represented with the theme of courage and being loyal to your lord. The Danes left the edge of the lake because they list their faith while the Geats stayed even though they thought Beowulf was killed. They also waited so they could kill. Grendel's mother if she surfaced to extract wergild.
19. This is the narrator addressing the audience. It is just after Beowulf killed Grendel's mom in the second episode. It shows the a-s belief that treasure is not as important in comparison to other things in life like pride in your actions and being a good leader. It talks about how Beowulf did not bother to bring the treasures he found in the bottom of the lake to the surface because the Danes were not ready to have them. They were a warrior society that was no longer brave but gave up hope too easily. He brought back the head of Grendel and the giant’s sword hilt to give reminders to the Danes that they need to keep their faith. The head of Grendel shows that any problem can be overcome and the sword hilt is in the shape of a cross.
20. This quote is the narrator speaking to the audience. It is after Beowulf defeats Grendel's mother, and is giving the giants sword hilt to Hrothgar. It shows A-S society with the concept of one God. It also talks about how a flood destroyed the race of gaints, which was a way the A-S tribe explained things they did not know and understand, like the Roman's buildings and monuments. This hilt shows the values of the A-S culture with them being "comfortably Pagan." It also could be foreshadowing of the Danes being wiped out, like what happened to the giants.
21. This quote is Hrothgar speaking to Beowulf before Beowulf leaves to return to Geatland. It talks about A-S culture by saying how lords and kings will be remembered after they die. The way Heremod behaved was bad for a king because he kept treasures for himself because he was selfish. He did not make his people happy and they did not respect him because of that. It also mentions the Almighty God, the sigh of Christianity. Hrothgar in this speech is a guide to Beowulf right after he proved himself fighting Grendel (the way the mythic heroic archetype says it would). He tells Beowulf to be a good king and lord by giving treasure to his thanes (also foreshadowing saying Beowulf will have power).
22. This quote is Hrothgar still talking to Beowulf before his return. It talks about A-S civilization by using a kenning, "flower of warriors", to talk about Beowulf. It basically says that all things end, with Beowulf's strength fading when he gets old, sight becoming less sharp, and people having to face death. This is Hrothgar continuing to being a guide and telling Beowulf that he should become a guide in the future because he will not always be incredibly strong and he has to let his people survive on their own, which Beowulf forgets over the time he becomes king.
23. This quote is the narrator talking to the audience, after Beowulf has become king. It gives examples of A-S culture with the kenning, "the prince of the rings", which is another way to say the king, Beowulf. It also calls the dragon the "sky-plague". It talks about Beowulf's pride and how he did not want an army to help him fight against the toughest enemy he ever saw, the dragon. Hrothgar warned him about being too proud of his strength and told him that he would lose his strength, which is what will make him lose against the dragon in the end.
24. Narrator to audienceEpisode 3Beowulf boasts again. Talks about how he will kill the dragon for the glory of winning. Wants the dragon to come out of his barrow.Culture- Pride, Fair Fight.Analysis- Beowulf feels it’s his duty to kill the dragon and decides to take him on.
25. Beowulf to soldiersEpisode 3Beowulf tells his men to stay back and not follow him into battle.Culture- PrideAnalysis- Mythic Heroic Archetype, needs to do it by himself even though he is old and stuff.
26. Narrator to audienceEpisode 3Beowulf’s sword (Naegling?) fails him when he strikes the dragon.Culture- Kenning, son of Ecgtheow. Honor from lineageAnalysis- sword has never failed him before. Hardest battle for Beowulf to date.
27. Wiglaf to shirkersEpisode 3conflict. wiglaf disobeys his leader beowulf to protect beowulf.Culture- loyalty to leader. ProtectionAnalysis- wiglaf disobeying beowulf to protect beowulf was a great honor and an extreme show of loyalty.
28. Wiglaf to GeatsWiglaf predicts the enemies will attack the Geats.Culture- All things come to an endAnalysis- Wiglaf realizes without Beowulf the other tribs will know they’re weak and attack them.
29. Wiglaf speaking to the Geats
About the gold that Beowulf will be buried with.
AS culture- loyalty to lord/King, respect
Analysis- Wiglaf tells the Geats why Beowulf’s treasure must be buried with him and not be used for anything else. It is only to be buried with Beowulf.
Third episode
30. Narrator is speaking to audience
About how the treasure that Beowulf had given the Geats was not worth anything, and they should give it back to Beowulf, in his casket.
AS culture- treasure is only worth its hype, loyalty to lord, respect, all things end
Analysis- the Geats return the treasure to their lord, this shows that Beowulf was a great King and warrior.
Third episode
31. Narrator is speaking to audience
About how the Geat people were truly sad when Beowulf died in battle. They remember him and discuss his legacy.
AS culture- loyalty to lord/King, all things end
Analysis- The Geats appreciated what Beowulf had done for them and they honor him by saying he is gracious and fair-minded, kindest to the people and keenest to win fame.
Third episode
*Other tools for studying include the book, study questions, and the quote sheet*
Created by John Leskow, Paul Derickson, Chris Balch, and Jordan Leavy
Class Notes 10/28/08
Today in class we had another Beowulf Review session.
Quote #3- The AS life and culture of quote #3 includes being known for your ancestory, the AS belief in demons, Christian/Pagan influence(Cain).
Poetic Forms- Caesura, Alliteration, Rhythm, Kenning, Stress
Why did the warriors come with Beowulf to the dragon's cave?
He wanted to be escorted, but he wanted to fight by himself. He wants an audience for the fight. He wants to prove himself.
Mythic Heroic Archetype- The entire poem (BW) is a battle against himself(always about the internal)
Beowulfs weakness=his pride
*Reminder, mythic heroic archetype story/poem does not need all 10 points.
Does Wiglaf ruin the archetype?
No, because it is merely a variation of the theme. BW should have asked for help all along...i.e. Saving Private Ryan
How long is BW with the Danes?4 days
Is it possible to be a guide and a hero?
Yes. But it will take a lot of variation. Ex. Stephen King's book the Gun Slinger=hero looses his fingers and cannot carry out journey, guide becomes hero and hero becomes guide.
Does every community have a hero with extraordinary strength?
No, BW is exceptional, he has much more strength(physically and mentally)
Grendel-No weapons
GM-Sword
Dragon-Shield
Why does BW use weapons against GM?
It is all about territory. BW wants to make it a fair and equal fight. He must adapt to the specific situation.Laz asked us about our opinions of the book...sadly, few answered.
If the Geats don't trust BW, why did they choose him to fight?
He was put on the spot to prove himself or die trying. He had the chance to make something of himself, so he did.
STUDY FOR THE TEST ON THURSDAY OR BE PREPARED TO FAIL!!!
John Leskow
Quote #3- The AS life and culture of quote #3 includes being known for your ancestory, the AS belief in demons, Christian/Pagan influence(Cain).
Poetic Forms- Caesura, Alliteration, Rhythm, Kenning, Stress
Why did the warriors come with Beowulf to the dragon's cave?
He wanted to be escorted, but he wanted to fight by himself. He wants an audience for the fight. He wants to prove himself.
Mythic Heroic Archetype- The entire poem (BW) is a battle against himself(always about the internal)
Beowulfs weakness=his pride
*Reminder, mythic heroic archetype story/poem does not need all 10 points.
Does Wiglaf ruin the archetype?
No, because it is merely a variation of the theme. BW should have asked for help all along...i.e. Saving Private Ryan
How long is BW with the Danes?4 days
Is it possible to be a guide and a hero?
Yes. But it will take a lot of variation. Ex. Stephen King's book the Gun Slinger=hero looses his fingers and cannot carry out journey, guide becomes hero and hero becomes guide.
Does every community have a hero with extraordinary strength?
No, BW is exceptional, he has much more strength(physically and mentally)
Grendel-No weapons
GM-Sword
Dragon-Shield
Why does BW use weapons against GM?
It is all about territory. BW wants to make it a fair and equal fight. He must adapt to the specific situation.Laz asked us about our opinions of the book...sadly, few answered.
If the Geats don't trust BW, why did they choose him to fight?
He was put on the spot to prove himself or die trying. He had the chance to make something of himself, so he did.
STUDY FOR THE TEST ON THURSDAY OR BE PREPARED TO FAIL!!!
John Leskow
Monday, October 27, 2008
Notes: October 27, 2008
BEOWULF TEST THURSDAY OCTOBER 30!!!
ON THE TEST:
Section 1: 9 questions- Short Answer
Section 2: 4 questions- Poetry Section, Concepts behind Anglo-Saxon Form.
Section 3: 5 questions- Mythic Heroic Archetype
Section 4: 4 quotes to be analyized
Class notes:
hapax legomenon- a single occurence of a word
ex: hasufag- speckled/spotted horse aka appaloosa
* impress your college interviewer by saying you learned about hapax legomenon in school!
Review of Beowulf:
Grendel v. Beowulf: descent into darkness is when Grendel enters mead hall at night time.
Change after descent: Beowulf proves to himself he can do it, even though not many
people believe in him.
Grendel's Mother v Beowulf: descent into darkness is when Beowulf enters GM's cave underwater.
Change after descent: Remember name and fame, have confidence/faith
Most important Descent into darkness: Beowulf enters Dragon's barrow.
- Brianna Lee
ON THE TEST:
Section 1: 9 questions- Short Answer
Section 2: 4 questions- Poetry Section, Concepts behind Anglo-Saxon Form.
Section 3: 5 questions- Mythic Heroic Archetype
Section 4: 4 quotes to be analyized
Class notes:
hapax legomenon- a single occurence of a word
ex: hasufag- speckled/spotted horse aka appaloosa
* impress your college interviewer by saying you learned about hapax legomenon in school!
Review of Beowulf:
Grendel v. Beowulf: descent into darkness is when Grendel enters mead hall at night time.
Change after descent: Beowulf proves to himself he can do it, even though not many
people believe in him.
Grendel's Mother v Beowulf: descent into darkness is when Beowulf enters GM's cave underwater.
Change after descent: Remember name and fame, have confidence/faith
Most important Descent into darkness: Beowulf enters Dragon's barrow.
- Brianna Lee
My leg hurts
I was wondering if anyone who has poem 5 or 7 could post it on the blog because as you might have noticed I was not in class.
Thanks, Connor
Thanks, Connor
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Personal Riddle
When Laz was explaining to us how to do oue own riddles, he said that it should be 10 lines. But he said to make it more like 10 thoughts. What if my riddle is 6 lines, but it is 10 thoughts?
John Leskow
John Leskow
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Notes October 22nd
Today we continued talking about the last set of review questions.
What happened to the people to whom the treasure originally belonged?
-They all died from war, the lone survivor locked away their treasure.
To what does the poet allude in the lines 2309-11?
-Rough times are coming for Beowulf, he will die.
What bad news does Beowulf receive in the aftermath of the dragon’s attack?
-The village has been burnt down along with his own home.
How does Beowulf interpret the meaning of the dragon’s attack?
-Beowulf thought he must have disturbed ordinance and god is punishing him.
How does Beowulf’s preparation for this coming battle differ from either of the previous two?
-He has prepared weapons like a shield ironed to guard him from the dragon’s fire unlike the other battles, he fought them with his bare hands and with weapons he was unfamiliar with.
What is Beowulf’s attitude about the coming battle? Why is this significant?
-Beowulf thinks he can beat the dragon and forgets Hrothgar’s words of wisdom about Hubris.
How does Beowulf take vengeance for the death of Hygelac?
-He carries 30 battle dresses and swims across the channel and killing all the Swedes and coming out victorious.
What happens when Beowulf returns home from his battle with the Frisians?
-He is offered the throne.
Why doesn’t Hygd offer the Geat throne to Heardred, her son?
-She doesn’t believe her son is capable to be a King.
Why does Beowulf refuse to accept her offer? What does he offer instead?
-He couldn’t take accept the throne because he wanted to keep the throne in family line. Instead he offers to act as a counselor to Heardred.
How does Beowulf end up becoming king?
-Heardred was killed and Beowulf took his place as the Geat King.
How does he arrange for vengeance for the death of Heardred?
-He supports Eagdils and kills Onela.
What happened when Beowulf was 7?
-He was fostered by his father.
How does Hrethel feel after his son’s death? What eventually happens to Hrethel?
-Hrethel feels miserable after his son’s death and dies because of grief.
How did Beowulf handle the threat of Dayraven the Frank?
-Beowulf leads a campaign to fight and kills them.
-Matt Frank
What happened to the people to whom the treasure originally belonged?
-They all died from war, the lone survivor locked away their treasure.
To what does the poet allude in the lines 2309-11?
-Rough times are coming for Beowulf, he will die.
What bad news does Beowulf receive in the aftermath of the dragon’s attack?
-The village has been burnt down along with his own home.
How does Beowulf interpret the meaning of the dragon’s attack?
-Beowulf thought he must have disturbed ordinance and god is punishing him.
How does Beowulf’s preparation for this coming battle differ from either of the previous two?
-He has prepared weapons like a shield ironed to guard him from the dragon’s fire unlike the other battles, he fought them with his bare hands and with weapons he was unfamiliar with.
What is Beowulf’s attitude about the coming battle? Why is this significant?
-Beowulf thinks he can beat the dragon and forgets Hrothgar’s words of wisdom about Hubris.
How does Beowulf take vengeance for the death of Hygelac?
-He carries 30 battle dresses and swims across the channel and killing all the Swedes and coming out victorious.
What happens when Beowulf returns home from his battle with the Frisians?
-He is offered the throne.
Why doesn’t Hygd offer the Geat throne to Heardred, her son?
-She doesn’t believe her son is capable to be a King.
Why does Beowulf refuse to accept her offer? What does he offer instead?
-He couldn’t take accept the throne because he wanted to keep the throne in family line. Instead he offers to act as a counselor to Heardred.
How does Beowulf end up becoming king?
-Heardred was killed and Beowulf took his place as the Geat King.
How does he arrange for vengeance for the death of Heardred?
-He supports Eagdils and kills Onela.
What happened when Beowulf was 7?
-He was fostered by his father.
How does Hrethel feel after his son’s death? What eventually happens to Hrethel?
-Hrethel feels miserable after his son’s death and dies because of grief.
How did Beowulf handle the threat of Dayraven the Frank?
-Beowulf leads a campaign to fight and kills them.
-Matt Frank
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Notes October 21st
All we did today was go over Beowulf questions. We finished up the last questions we had about the 2nd packets of review questions. From now until Friday, we will be going over the last set of review questions.
Identify Hildeburh:
Daughter of Hoc
sister of Hnaef (who is leader of the Danes)
married to Finn (who is leader of the Frisians)
Who is Hengest?
-Becomes leader of the Danes after Hnaef dies - leads sneak attack on Frisians
Why does the text repeat both the monsters' ancestry and Beowulf's defeat of Grendel?
-Because this book is made up of many seperate stories put into one.
What cultural value does Beowulf express in his response to Hrothgar's expressions of pain at Aeschere's loss?
-Beowulf tells Hrothgar to avenge Aeschere rather than grieve over him
What promises does Beowulf extract from Hrothgar before he departs? What does this demonstrate about Beowulf?
-Beowulf asks Hrothgar to take care of his men and give his possessions to Hygelac if he doesn't make it back. This demonstrates Beowulf's leadership abilities as well as loyalty to his king.
What does Beowulf use for his second assault on the monster? How effective is it?
- Beowulf tries to wrestle with Grendel's mother like he had with Grendel. It is not effective at all.
How does Beowulf's treatment of Unferth demonstrate his leadership abilities?
-It shows the care and respect that he uses for items that are valuable to others.
What foreboding does Hrothgar experience? Why is this detail included?
- Hrothgar knows he will never see Beowulf again. This detail is included as a refernce to the fact that all things end.
How does Beowulf conclude his recital to Hygelac?
- He expresses fondness for the Danes and, although he predicts their downfall, he thinks that a truce with them will be a benefit more than a cripple.
The Dragon Wakes- this is the order of people you should fill in the blanks for.
1. Hrethel, Ongentheow, Othere, Onela, Hreosnahill
2. Haithcyn, Hrethel, Ongentheow's queen, Ravenwood, Ongentheow, his queen, Haethcyn, Hygelac, Haethcyn, Ongentheow.
3. Eanmund, Eadgils, Othere, Onela, Heardred, Onela, Headred, Weostan, Eanmund, Beowulf
4. Beowulf, Eadgils, Onela.
What is significant about the text of the poem from lines 2215-31?
-they are missing - detroyed by fire when the manuscript was being saved
What is the origin of the treasure-trove upon which the dragon slept?
- it was treasures from a forgotten culture
What happened to the people whom the treasure originally belonged?
-they perished in war - only one survivor
What point does the last survivor of those people make in his speech?
- all the riches can do nothing for him if there is no one for him to use them with - there is no point in having them treasure
How long did the dragon guard the treasure-trove?
-300 years
Identify Hildeburh:
Daughter of Hoc
sister of Hnaef (who is leader of the Danes)
married to Finn (who is leader of the Frisians)
Who is Hengest?
-Becomes leader of the Danes after Hnaef dies - leads sneak attack on Frisians
Why does the text repeat both the monsters' ancestry and Beowulf's defeat of Grendel?
-Because this book is made up of many seperate stories put into one.
What cultural value does Beowulf express in his response to Hrothgar's expressions of pain at Aeschere's loss?
-Beowulf tells Hrothgar to avenge Aeschere rather than grieve over him
What promises does Beowulf extract from Hrothgar before he departs? What does this demonstrate about Beowulf?
-Beowulf asks Hrothgar to take care of his men and give his possessions to Hygelac if he doesn't make it back. This demonstrates Beowulf's leadership abilities as well as loyalty to his king.
What does Beowulf use for his second assault on the monster? How effective is it?
- Beowulf tries to wrestle with Grendel's mother like he had with Grendel. It is not effective at all.
How does Beowulf's treatment of Unferth demonstrate his leadership abilities?
-It shows the care and respect that he uses for items that are valuable to others.
What foreboding does Hrothgar experience? Why is this detail included?
- Hrothgar knows he will never see Beowulf again. This detail is included as a refernce to the fact that all things end.
How does Beowulf conclude his recital to Hygelac?
- He expresses fondness for the Danes and, although he predicts their downfall, he thinks that a truce with them will be a benefit more than a cripple.
The Dragon Wakes- this is the order of people you should fill in the blanks for.
1. Hrethel, Ongentheow, Othere, Onela, Hreosnahill
2. Haithcyn, Hrethel, Ongentheow's queen, Ravenwood, Ongentheow, his queen, Haethcyn, Hygelac, Haethcyn, Ongentheow.
3. Eanmund, Eadgils, Othere, Onela, Heardred, Onela, Headred, Weostan, Eanmund, Beowulf
4. Beowulf, Eadgils, Onela.
What is significant about the text of the poem from lines 2215-31?
-they are missing - detroyed by fire when the manuscript was being saved
What is the origin of the treasure-trove upon which the dragon slept?
- it was treasures from a forgotten culture
What happened to the people whom the treasure originally belonged?
-they perished in war - only one survivor
What point does the last survivor of those people make in his speech?
- all the riches can do nothing for him if there is no one for him to use them with - there is no point in having them treasure
How long did the dragon guard the treasure-trove?
-300 years
Monday, October 20, 2008
Monday, October 20th
Since I forgot to blog the past two times I was supposed to, I'll post the notes from today.
"Another Celebration at Heorot"
Who does Beowulf credit for his success in the battle against Grendel's mother?
-God, but in earlier versions of the poem, it could have been the gods or weird (fate).
How does humanity live its lives, according to Hrothgar?
-They live with the understanding of their own mortality, and the understanding that ALL THINGS END.
How does Hrothgar use himself as an example for Beowulf?
-He tells him not to think that there is no danger or that there are no enemies
-He tells him that his strength will fade.
-He should live for eternal rewards (Heaven)
"Beowulf Returns Home"
What does Beowulf do with Hrunting?
-He returns it to Unferth and says that it was a great help in battle.
What is the function of Beowulf's first speech to Hrothgar in this section?
-To tell Hrothgar that has to leave, and that he will return if they ever need him again.
By what appositive is Hygelac also known
-Killer of Ongentheow
-Anglo Saxons were known by their families, leaders, and deeds.
Why does Beowulf talk about the betrothal of Freawaru, Hrothgar's daughter, while relating his story to Hygelac?
-He thinks the betrothal will end with violence.
Why are we given yet another complete rendition of Beowulf's battles?
-Because the stories were not told one after the other in AS culture.
Kevin Storms
"Another Celebration at Heorot"
Who does Beowulf credit for his success in the battle against Grendel's mother?
-God, but in earlier versions of the poem, it could have been the gods or weird (fate).
How does humanity live its lives, according to Hrothgar?
-They live with the understanding of their own mortality, and the understanding that ALL THINGS END.
How does Hrothgar use himself as an example for Beowulf?
-He tells him not to think that there is no danger or that there are no enemies
-He tells him that his strength will fade.
-He should live for eternal rewards (Heaven)
"Beowulf Returns Home"
What does Beowulf do with Hrunting?
-He returns it to Unferth and says that it was a great help in battle.
What is the function of Beowulf's first speech to Hrothgar in this section?
-To tell Hrothgar that has to leave, and that he will return if they ever need him again.
By what appositive is Hygelac also known
-Killer of Ongentheow
-Anglo Saxons were known by their families, leaders, and deeds.
Why does Beowulf talk about the betrothal of Freawaru, Hrothgar's daughter, while relating his story to Hygelac?
-He thinks the betrothal will end with violence.
Why are we given yet another complete rendition of Beowulf's battles?
-Because the stories were not told one after the other in AS culture.
Kevin Storms
Friday, October 17, 2008
Today we had a silent work period because Mr. Laz was not there. Mr. Greene told us a little about college admissions and how we should be sure that is the course we want to take because 17% of freshmen leave colege by October 12 each year. I think Kevin is doing the notes from yesterday so we should be all cought up.
-Paul Derickson
-Paul Derickson
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Grendel
So i've been reading Grendel and its some what interesting. There are many similarities between the book and Beowulf, obviously. However its intriguing to flip between the two books and have a double-play (phillies) perspective. It's actually quite the philisophical read as well, because the author puts man as one of the lower forms of intelligence in the world. Grendel's mother is an idiot, however the dragon knows 'everything'. Wonderfully deep. He recites verses which i have to go back and read 3-4 times before i can actually discern what he's talking about. For anyone not reading it i highly suggest getting it, i've had it for less than a week and i'm already about half way through. I guess the extra credit is cool, too.
Connor Tuck
Connor Tuck
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Beowulf vs.Grendals Mother Notes from 10/14/08
Since Conner and I got skipped over I've copied down the notes from previois days to keep everything updated, Paul should be posting the notes from today's class today as well.
-Alex Taylor
Beowulf vs. Grendals Mother
1. Giants Sword:
- Beowulf found it amoung Grendals Mothers treasure
- huge sword, only 30 men could lift it ,so ofcourse Beowulf does with ease
- classified as "gaint sword" making reference to Roman times, maybe sword was roman= relation between big architecture and large sword ( buildings so massive only giants could have built them)
- story on sword tells of a great flood(religious reference) and the start of war
2. Swordheld
- Beowulf brings back just the swordheld as a symbol of faith (cross shaped) and possibly even the elimination of his unholy life
- possibly just brought back this part of the sword instead of many of the other riches from the cave to represent memory, faith,loyalty, and vengence.
- sword would not have had as much of a meaning if other treasure was brought up as well
- Beowulf might be inferring that Danes are not deserving of other treasure
- Beowulf also notices Danes (signfically Hrothgar's) loss of faith/warrior like attributes of society = aka when hrothgar's close friend Aeschere is killed he goes in to depression and sadness rather than the nobel anger and need for vengence.
- during this time the sword was thought of as a subsitute for the cross, warriors of god
I think that pretty much covers what we talked about in class on the 14th
-Alex Taylor
Beowulf vs. Grendals Mother
1. Giants Sword:
- Beowulf found it amoung Grendals Mothers treasure
- huge sword, only 30 men could lift it ,so ofcourse Beowulf does with ease
- classified as "gaint sword" making reference to Roman times, maybe sword was roman= relation between big architecture and large sword ( buildings so massive only giants could have built them)
- story on sword tells of a great flood(religious reference) and the start of war
2. Swordheld
- Beowulf brings back just the swordheld as a symbol of faith (cross shaped) and possibly even the elimination of his unholy life
- possibly just brought back this part of the sword instead of many of the other riches from the cave to represent memory, faith,loyalty, and vengence.
- sword would not have had as much of a meaning if other treasure was brought up as well
- Beowulf might be inferring that Danes are not deserving of other treasure
- Beowulf also notices Danes (signfically Hrothgar's) loss of faith/warrior like attributes of society = aka when hrothgar's close friend Aeschere is killed he goes in to depression and sadness rather than the nobel anger and need for vengence.
- during this time the sword was thought of as a subsitute for the cross, warriors of god
I think that pretty much covers what we talked about in class on the 14th
Monday, October 13, 2008
Handed in our essays!!
We talked about how there was the fight with Grendel and Beowulf/ Beowulf versus Grendels Mother
How important and significant it was that Unferth gave Beowulf his sword.
The swords name was Hrunting.
By give Beowulf the sword it symbolizes the Loyalty and Leadership that Unferth has in Beowulf.
In response Beowulf takes it with much pride and says he will come back with it and if he does not he will die trying.
Then we talked about the mental state of Beowulf while he was fighting Grendels
mother.
He said "Remember his name and fame"!
This quote had both lineage and identity.
He escaped the lake and fight with total faith in his ability to beat Grendels Mother.
Extra Credit Opportunity- Read the book, Grendel, by John Gardner, do some written work on it for extra credit.
Sean Bronczyk
We talked about how there was the fight with Grendel and Beowulf/ Beowulf versus Grendels Mother
How important and significant it was that Unferth gave Beowulf his sword.
The swords name was Hrunting.
By give Beowulf the sword it symbolizes the Loyalty and Leadership that Unferth has in Beowulf.
In response Beowulf takes it with much pride and says he will come back with it and if he does not he will die trying.
Then we talked about the mental state of Beowulf while he was fighting Grendels
mother.
He said "Remember his name and fame"!
This quote had both lineage and identity.
He escaped the lake and fight with total faith in his ability to beat Grendels Mother.
Extra Credit Opportunity- Read the book, Grendel, by John Gardner, do some written work on it for extra credit.
Sean Bronczyk
Question about Beowulf
As I was going over what we discussed today in class, as well as reading the text, I came upon a question from the study sheet that I could not find the answer to. It is No. 15 on the "Another Attack" page...The question reads "What promises does Beowulf extract from Hrothgar before he departs? What does this demonstrate about Beowulf?
If anyon can help me answer this it would be greatly appreciated.
John Leskow
If anyon can help me answer this it would be greatly appreciated.
John Leskow
Friday, October 10, 2008
October 10th
Today we got our Toulmin model quizzes back:
----We should keep them to figure out what we did wrong and what we need to do to know it.
----Should know it, expected to be able to use it.
Then we took quizzes on matching the pagan names of kids in our class.
Next we voted for a pagan name for Mr. Lazarow, it ended up:
Today we got our Toulmin model quizzes back:
----We should keep them to figure out what we did wrong and what we need to do to know it.
----Should know it, expected to be able to use it.
Then we took quizzes on matching the pagan names of kids in our class.
Next we voted for a pagan name for Mr. Lazarow, it ended up:
Bregonoth--- King of Boldness
Extra Credit Opportunity- Read the book, Grendel, by John Gardner, do some written work on it for extra credit.
Dan Beam
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
October 8th Class Notes
Today was about Beowulf because no one had questions about the college essay.
We recieved questions for the next section of Beowulf we are going to read, Beowulf vs. Grendel's mother.
We discussed more of the Grendel vs. Beowulf section:
What is the signifigance of taking an enemy's treasure, and why would he take Grendel's arm?
Taking treasures means that you have achieved victory, and the signifigance of taking Grendel's arm is that the Danes have been in Grendel's grip and taking his arm is to say Beowulf has freed them from his grip.
Why didn't the Danes ask for help in the 12 years it took Beowulf to arrive?
The Danes didn't ask for help because the Danes pride would be damaged and it would make them appear as weak, but the christian values would suggest you wouldn't have it solved unless you appealed to God for help.
How many men does Grendel kill the first night he attacks?
Grendel kills and eats 30 men the first night.
How many earriors go to help Hrothgar?
14 soldiers venture to help Hrothgar.
What is Hrothgar's queen significant?
The queen is the one who can express thanks to Beowulf, and makes him realize it is about responsbility and the people.
What is a Kenning?
Kennings are "fanciful metaphors" meaning that they substitute words such as:
Sword -> Warbiter
Ocean -> Whale road
the poets would do this in order to add diversity to the stories, these were also usually used with nonhuman things.
Apossitives are used to refer to people such as:
"Son of..."
"Thane of..."
"Hygelac -> Killer of Ungethes"
As Beowulf and his men venture to Grendel's mother what are the 2 stories/songs and what are their signifigance?
One is song is Sigemund which has to do with a dragon slayer.
(Kerenal)
This is a tribute to Beowulf because he has just slayed a monster, and it foreshadows that the end Beowulf will fight a dragon.
The is stoy titled Fight at Finnsberg that has to do with someone else or a group of others...
-Richard Basiaga
We recieved questions for the next section of Beowulf we are going to read, Beowulf vs. Grendel's mother.
We discussed more of the Grendel vs. Beowulf section:
What is the signifigance of taking an enemy's treasure, and why would he take Grendel's arm?
Taking treasures means that you have achieved victory, and the signifigance of taking Grendel's arm is that the Danes have been in Grendel's grip and taking his arm is to say Beowulf has freed them from his grip.
Why didn't the Danes ask for help in the 12 years it took Beowulf to arrive?
The Danes didn't ask for help because the Danes pride would be damaged and it would make them appear as weak, but the christian values would suggest you wouldn't have it solved unless you appealed to God for help.
How many men does Grendel kill the first night he attacks?
Grendel kills and eats 30 men the first night.
How many earriors go to help Hrothgar?
14 soldiers venture to help Hrothgar.
What is Hrothgar's queen significant?
The queen is the one who can express thanks to Beowulf, and makes him realize it is about responsbility and the people.
What is a Kenning?
Kennings are "fanciful metaphors" meaning that they substitute words such as:
Sword -> Warbiter
Ocean -> Whale road
the poets would do this in order to add diversity to the stories, these were also usually used with nonhuman things.
Apossitives are used to refer to people such as:
"Son of..."
"Thane of..."
"Hygelac -> Killer of Ungethes"
As Beowulf and his men venture to Grendel's mother what are the 2 stories/songs and what are their signifigance?
One is song is Sigemund which has to do with a dragon slayer.
(Kerenal)
This is a tribute to Beowulf because he has just slayed a monster, and it foreshadows that the end Beowulf will fight a dragon.
The is stoy titled Fight at Finnsberg that has to do with someone else or a group of others...
-Richard Basiaga
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
College Essay
Hey guys, I was thinking about how Mr. Laz said we should take risks in the format of our essay, and I thought of this idea.. don't know how it could work but if it did I think it'd be pretty cool. If somehow you could get the initials for the school you are applying to say... Penn State (PSU) and you have parts of your essay written within each letter. I doubt this would work if you are emailing your essay, and I don't even know how you could do it, it may be a crazy idea and it sounded like a good idea when I thought of it. But there is not harm in throwing some ideas out there. Good luck with your essays.
- Brianna Lee
- Brianna Lee
Oct. 7 Class Notes
Today in class, Mr. Laz started off explaining that the college essay is due this Monday, Oct. 13th, and then continued on with last week's Beowulf lesson. I used my question packet for most of the notes I took.
Study questions: "The Feast at Heorot"
1) Who challenges Beowulf's heroic stature, and why?
Unferth. It would be rude for Hrothgar to do so in his own hall due to a belief of the Anglo-Saxon culture.
2) What event does he refer to, and why does he claim this to be proof of Beowulf's unworthiness?
He is referring to the Brecca vs. Beowulf race event. He claims this to be proof of his unworthiness because the race was very rash and foolish, done in both their youths.
3) How does Beowulf defend his actions?
Beowulf tells his legacy and his victory over sea monsters during his childhood race with Brecca.
4) What good for the tribe comes out of the competition?
Honor, greatness, and strength.
5) How does Beowulf turn the accusation of unworthiness around on his accuser?
Beowulf labels Unferth drunk and explains that he killed his own brother. Resulting for Beowulf from that argument was a highly guaranteed acceptance for the Danes because he proved himself very quick and intelligent for completely reversing the argument.
"The Fight with Grendel"
Beowulf rips off Grendel's arm and gives it to the Danes as a trophy. The symbolism that comes out of Grendel's death is that "evil destroys evil". Beowulf held Grendel's arm down until the monster eventually ripped it off itself.
By Mike Wall
Study questions: "The Feast at Heorot"
1) Who challenges Beowulf's heroic stature, and why?
Unferth. It would be rude for Hrothgar to do so in his own hall due to a belief of the Anglo-Saxon culture.
2) What event does he refer to, and why does he claim this to be proof of Beowulf's unworthiness?
He is referring to the Brecca vs. Beowulf race event. He claims this to be proof of his unworthiness because the race was very rash and foolish, done in both their youths.
3) How does Beowulf defend his actions?
Beowulf tells his legacy and his victory over sea monsters during his childhood race with Brecca.
4) What good for the tribe comes out of the competition?
Honor, greatness, and strength.
5) How does Beowulf turn the accusation of unworthiness around on his accuser?
Beowulf labels Unferth drunk and explains that he killed his own brother. Resulting for Beowulf from that argument was a highly guaranteed acceptance for the Danes because he proved himself very quick and intelligent for completely reversing the argument.
"The Fight with Grendel"
Beowulf rips off Grendel's arm and gives it to the Danes as a trophy. The symbolism that comes out of Grendel's death is that "evil destroys evil". Beowulf held Grendel's arm down until the monster eventually ripped it off itself.
By Mike Wall
Monday, October 6, 2008
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Old English Homework
On the third part of the homework, when we write the combined meaning, we write what it means, just change the ending so they match. Like Famous Spear instead of Fame Spear for Hrothgar, correct?
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