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

Short Answer Questions

1. When Beowulf enters Heorot, what two things does he present to Hrothgar?

2. What does Beowulf do when he sees Grendel's body in the lair?

3. At the beginning of Chapter 2, who is brooding with grief and greedy for revenge?

4. Where does Beowulf see a "tremendous sword" in the lair of Grendel's mother?

5. Who does Grendel's mother kill during the night?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There is some question as to whether or not Wiglaf will make a good king. What does this uncertainty say about the author's view of the stability of his changing world?

Essay Topic 2

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?

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay explaining what an epic poem is and how this story fits into that definition. What characteristics of an epic does it have? Are there elements of an epic that are missing?

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This section contains 222 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample