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

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Hrothgar describe the Grendel lake?

2. Who forged the tremendous sword that is in Grendel's mother's lair?

3. What happens to the blade of the tremendous sword found in the lair?

4. What is Hrunting?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Hrothgar serves to magnify Beowulf's heroism. In what ways does he do this? What are the aspects of his personality or the actions he takes that show the reader how truly heroic Beowulf is?

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

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?

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This section contains 205 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample