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

Short Answer Questions

1. Who promises to come with "a thousand spears and a thousand shields" if the other should be attacked?

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

3. What is the Grendel lake lined with?

4. How does Hrothgar kill the first monster at the Grendel lake?

5. After Beowulf's sword fails to kill Grendel's mother, what does he use to try to fight her?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

After the defeat of the dragon, Beowulf's people are left in despair at the loss of their king rather than joyous at the defeat of the dragon. What do you think this reaction symbolizes?

Essay Topic 2

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 3

What is the difference between sympathy and empathy? Do you think Grendel's mother is a sympathetic or an empathetic character? Why?

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This section contains 231 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample