3. What does Grendel discover after leaving the dragon?
(a) The dragon gave him a jewel.
(b) The dragon charmed him.
(c) The dragon cursed him.
(d) He accidentally stole the dragon's gold.

4. What sickens Grendel about the battles?
(a) That the women aren't killed also.
(b) The waste of dead animals and men.
(c) Not being able to participate.
(d) The smell of blood.

5. What changes in the spring between the clans of men?
(a) They begin warring.
(b) They build one main hall.
(c) They sign a truce.
(d) They plant crops together.

Short Answer Questions

1. What do the men think Grendel is in Chapter 2?

2. The dragon's great ambition is to do what?

3. What scent pervades the hall as Unferth and Grendel talk in Chapter 6?

4. What literary device is demonstrated in the word “sizzle” in Chapter 1?

5. How many tribes does Hrothgar make treaties with?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Grendel drawn to and repulsed by Hrothgar's great hall?

2. The dragon talks about fate, free will, and the consistency of time but encourages Grendel to change something. How does the dragon not heed his own advice?

3. Describe how the men look the very first time Grendel sees them.

4. Discuss the quote on page 7 where Grendel gives himself alternate names (shadow-shooter, earth-rim-roamer, walker of the world's weird wall). What does this signify?

5. Does Grendel have delusions about his own intelligence?

6. Who proves to be more heroic during the encounter between Unferth and Grendel in Grendel's cave?

7. Why do you think Grendel chooses to spare Unferth in his cave and on subsequent raids?

8. How does Grendel's existence hinge on Hrothgar's survival?

9. How do Grendel's emotions play into his role as narrator?

10. Describe Unferth's reaction to Grendel's speaking.

(see the answer keys)

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