BEOWULF: The Power of Language to Transform Lives

Literature Selections:
Beowulf (translated by Seamus Heaney)

Unit Themes:
In the transformation from oral language to the written word, universal truths of human nature were formalized. The evolution of language impacts life. Sometimes the journey itself is more important than the destination.

Big Ideas of the Unit:

history of the Anglo-Saxons invasion of the Normans in 1066 AD history of Middle Ages warfare feasting and boasting role of religion

Essential Questions:
When is loyalty to myself more important than loyalty to a friend? How do I demonstrate that I am open-minded enough to learn from my experiences? How do the heroes of literature reflect the values of the time? What journey will I take to become my own hero?

Literary Elements
characterization setting

Literary Devices
allusion allegory symbolism imagery metaphor simile personification use of repetition and rhyme

conflict theme mood tone legend epic verse folk epic kennings
alliteration appositive phrases

Core Concepts
oral tradition/ storytelling the power of language to transform lives the journey honor truth heroic codes value systems use of language transformation/ transformational thinking

riddles
epic hero archetype