Name:__________________________________

Beowulf—Drawing Conclusions

Beowulf is an epic that has transcended hundreds of years. Many say that Beowulf is still
relevant because of its theme and overall focus on the dichotomies of the world.

A dichotomy is made up of two opposite forces operating on the same spectrum. In other
words, it is two opposing forces that work against one another.

Examples: light & dark Non-Examples: apples & oranges

male & female boy & man
good & evil great & good
Beowulf & Grendel Beowulf & Cain

There are 6 key dichotomies that we are going to take a look at from Beowulf. Using the
dichotomies listed below, you must find quotations and examples from Beowulf that relate
to your dichotomy. Then, you must come up with a “critical observation” about your
assigned dichotomy. For your critical observation, think of it like a thesis statement. It
should state both what the text says about that dichotomy and its purpose within the text.

Light vs. Dark Good vs. Evil Hero vs. Criminal

Examples from Beowulf: Examples: Examples:

Critical Observation: C.O.: C.O.:

Pagan vs. Christian Young vs. Old Life vs. Death

Examples from Beowulf: Examples: Examples:
Critical Observation: C.O.: C.O.: