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

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

4. Discuss the sentiment that bread-thieves die while murderers go free. What is meant by this statement?

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

6. How do the Danes respond to the arrival of the Geats?

7. Discuss Wealtheow's life at Hart and her unspoken feelings about her position as queen.

8. Describe the effect Wealtheow has on Hrothgar's hall.

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe Grendel's relationship with his mother when he is young. How does she treat him? How does this affect his adulthood? How does their relationship shift as he grows older?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss what Grendel comes to realize while hanging in the tree. Why is this realization important? How does this realization shape Grendel’s actions?

Essay Topic 3

Compare and contrast the meeting between Unferth and Grendel in Grendel's cave and Grendel and the Stranger in Hrothgar's hall. Which encounter do you feel is more heroic? Why did Unferth fail while the Stranger succeeded?

(see the answer keys)

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