C.

Reading Between and Beyond the Lines

For a more in-depth understanding, think about and try to answer the following often-asked
questions about Beowulf:

1. Who does Beowulf fight?

Answer: Beowulf fights Grendel, Grendel's mother, and the dragon.

2. What is Grendel?

Answer Grendel is a monstrous descendant of Cain.

3. Why does Beowulf want to fight Grendel?

Answer: Beowulf wants to fight Grendel to help Hrothgar and prove his strength.

4. What feats has Beowulf already accomplished when he is introduced?

Answer: Beowulf has already defeated sea monsters and won a swimming race against
Breca.

5. Why does Unferth question Beowulf’s ability?

Answer: Unferth questions Beowulf's ability out of jealousy and skepticism.

6. What gifts does Wealhtheow give Beowulf?

Answer: Wealhtheow gives Beowulf gifts and expresses her hope for his success in
protecting the kingdom.

7. Why does Grendel’s mother take back Grendel’s arm?

Answer: Grendel's mother takes back Grendel's arm to avenge her son's death.

8. Why does the dragon attach Beowulf’s kingdom?

Answer: The dragon attacks Beowulf's kingdom because a thief stole from its treasure
hoard.

9. How does the dragon kill Beowulf?

Answer: Beowulf dies from injuries sustained in the battle with the dragon.

10. What is Beowulf’s dying wish?

Answer: Beowulf's dying wish is to see the dragon's treasure.

11. What makes Hrothgar a good king?

Answer: Hrothgar is considered a good king for his generosity and wisdom.

12. What qualities characterize Beowulf as a hero?

Answer: Beowulf is characterized as a hero with exceptional strength, courage, and loyalty.