BEOWULF: Review Questions #8

Lines 2669-3182 (pgs. 181-213)

 

1. Re-read Beowulf's death speech on lines 2729-2751 and 2794-2808. What strikes you as being important in this speech? Please read carefully.

2. Even though Beowulf understands that death is imminent (lines 2730-2751), he still asks Wiglaf to bring him the treasure. Why is this important to Beowulf?

3. After Beowulf’s death, those who originally fled in fear return to the scene. Considering lines 2864-2891, how would you characterize Wiglaf? How does his speech reflect the tenets of "warrior culture"?

4. How does Wiglaf believe Beowulf’s death will affect the Geats in the future? Cite examples.

5. Familiarize yourself with the historical events discussed in lines 2914-2998.

6. Consider lines 3051-3075. How is the significance of gold in this scene different from past scenes? Support your claims with specific examples.

7. As the Geats prepare for Beowulf’s funeral, an old Geat woman "unburdened herself of her worst fears." Of what is she afraid? How does her reaction reflect the importance of the warrior-king in early feudal society?

8. What is "Beowulf’s Barrow" meant to symbolize?