1. Discuss the statement, "By deeds worth praise a man can, in any kingdom, prosper!" (112). How do these words from the Shaper contradict what the dragon told Grendel?

2. Describe Grendel's reaction to the Strangers. How does he feel about the lead Stranger?

3. What similarities do you see between the brief account of Finn and Hnaef and Hrothgar and Wealtheow's brother?

4. Describe the lead Stranger. How does he act? What does he look like?

5. In Chapter 12, who are Grendel's final words directed toward? What foreshadowing do his words provide?

6. Discuss Ork's behavior as he talks about the King of Gods.

7. Compare the bowsman hunting the hart to the priest coming to Grendel in the ring of gods.

8. In Chapter 12, discuss Grendel's interpretation of why his mother does not answer him as he calls for her while fighting the Stranger.

9. The goat invading the mere can be seen as a symbol and foreshadowing. What does the goat stand for?

10. What is the relationship between Hrothgar and Wealtheow? Are they a happy couple?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What has caused the people's faith to falter? Why do they continue to believe in their gods/statues? Is this a natural cycle for religion to take?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the role of the dragon. Why did the author use this particular creature to teach Grendel? Do you find the scenes with the dragon necessary? Does the dragon's intelligence reduce Grendel to the level of the bull he mocked earlier?

Essay Topic 3

Why do you think that Grendel continues to update the reader on the dragon? Why does Grendel refer to the dragon by smell? How does Grendel’s relationship with the dragon evolve in the narrative?

(see the answer keys)

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