Beowulf Name _________________________

Character Identification Period -

Instructions: The beginning of Beowulf is filled with references to many different characters, especially
those who comprise the family trees of the Danish and Geat royalty. Use the table below to keep track of the
characters as they are introduced. As you read, make note of each character’s first appearance in the epic, his or
her title, nationality, and descriptive trait. Initial page numbers have been given but note that characters appear
on additional pages for you to write important actions about the main characters as you continue to read.

Title or Descriptive Trait

Character Page Nationality Noteworthy Actions
Position (Direct Quote w/ line #)
#
Shield
King of the “scourge of many tribes” (line 4);
Sheafson 3 Danish
Danes “That was one good king” (11).
“He was well regarded and ruled
King of the
Beow 3 Danish the Danes for a long time”
Danes
(54-55).

Halfdane 7

Hrothgar 7

Grendel 9

Hygelac 15

Beowulf 15

Ecgtheow 19

Wulfgar 25

Unferth 35

Breca 37

Wealhtheow 41-4
3

Sigemund 59
 Page Title or Descriptive Trait
Character Nationality
# Position (Direct Quote w/ line #)

Hildeburh 71
and Finn

Aschere 93

Hygd 131

Freawaru 139

Wiglaf 175

Heorot Hall

Swords:
Hrunting -

Giants’ -

Naegling-