Notes: Beowulf

1. Notes: Beowulf

2. I) The Background • It was told and re-told to audiences throughout England over hundreds of years by . . . • Scops – traveling minstrels – who presented long narrative poems • Beowulf was originally told in Old English • The only original manuscript was saved from a fire, but did not escape damage in 1731

3. I) The Background • Originally read for historical elements, not literary purpose • Contains Christian influences – Anglo-Saxon influence • Scholars not sure if in original poem or added later • Author is unknown • Date of origin ranges from 8th century to late 10th century • Events it records happened two centuries prior

4. A) Summary • Beowulf – a Gaet who sets sail from his homeland to try to free Danish King Hrothgar’s great banquet hall (Herot) of a monster • Grendel – the monster – has been ravaging Herot for twelve years

5. II) History: Paganism and Christianity • Paganism – the belief that lives were completely in the hands of fate • They told stories of monsters and other creatures that lurked in the depths of the forest • Christianity – belief in a single deity 1) belief in freedom of individuals to determine their own path 2) clear distinction between good and evil C) Beowulf written during culture change from paganism to Christianity – it reflects both ideals

6. III) Literary Focus: The Epic • Epic – a long narrative poem, sometimes developed orally, that celebrates the deeds of a legendary or heroic figure • Usually presented in a serious manner • Hero battles forces of evil and represents widespread national, cultural, or religious values • Based on historical facts