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Beowulf Discussion Questions :
“Unferth’s Challenge”
Pt.6:
1. What is Unferth’s motivation for challenging Beowulf?
2. What does he accuse Beowulf of? (Being what?) Why is this important to know?
3. Summarize the tale that Unferth tells THEN summarize Beowulf’s version thus far. Who is the
hero of each tale?
4. AT the end of pt. 6, how do you think Unferth is reacting to Beowulf’s commentary? How do
you think Hrothgar is reacting to this?
5. List any kennings.
6. Read the information box on p.28 – 29. What do you think the following quote means?
“So fame/Comes to the men who mean to win it/And care about nothing else!” Beowulf, lines
610 -612.
Pt. 7:
1. Beowulf continues with his story, the author brings into play more religious/Christian
references. What are they and what is the significance here?
2. At line 314, the tone of the poem changes. Why? What happens?
3. What is the reaction of Hrothgar and his warriors to Beowulf’s claims? What is your textual
proof?
4. What is the significance of Welthow’s actions?
5. Beowulf’s tone changes after Welthow’s actions. How does it change and why does it
change?
6. Night is personified beginning in line 379. What is the effect on the reader/listener by using
this form of figurative language?
7. Explain lines 385 – 390. What does Hrothgar offer? Why is this significant? What will
Beowulf’s reward be if he defeats Grendel?
8. Knowing the reward, is Beowulf still a hero?
9. List any kennings.