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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is the Grendel lake lined with?

2. How far is Grendel's mother's lair from the windy cliffs?

3. At what point does Beowulf decide to enter the lake to search for Grendel's mother?

4. What kind of boat to Beowulf and his men sail away from Denmark in?

5. What is Hrunting?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the theme of Christianity in Beowulf the Warrior. What was going on historically at the time the epic was written? How is that reflected in the story? Describe elements that represent Christianity as well as elements that represent paganism.

Essay Topic 2

The foes Beowulf faces represent three emotions that sometimes result in violence. What are those emotions? Which foe represents each of these emotions? How do they represent the emotion? What actions do they take and why?

Essay Topic 3

Though the two do not get along, Beowulf wills his sword to Unferth before he goes into battle with Grendel's mother. Why does he do this? What does this act say about Beowulf?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 228 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample