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Do Now. How does lineage affect people’s place in society?. Beowulf. Background. Epic – a long narrative poem, sometimes developed orally, that celebrates the deeds of a legendary or heroic figure
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Do Now • How does lineage affect people’s place in society?
Background • Epic – a long narrative poem, sometimes developed orally, that celebrates the deeds of a legendary or heroic figure • Legendary hero – larger than life character whose accomplishments are celebrated in traditional tales • Boastful self-confidence • Feats of strength • Victories in battle • Beowulf – Geat • Hrothgar – Dane • The clergy was the first group to record the story of Beowulf.
Background • At the time Beowulf was recorded, Christianity was spreading through Europe. • Elements of the story are indicative of the struggle between paganism and Christianity that was occurring at the time. • Beowulf • Christ-like figure • Grendel’s mother • Biblical portrayals of women
The Wrath of Grendel/The Coming of Beowulf/The Battle with Grendel • What does the story of Grendel’s origins suggest about the beliefs of Anglo-Saxon culture? • Terrorized by Grendel, Hrothgar and his followers face “Twelve winters of grief.” How does the length of their suffering increase the epic feelings of this tale? • How do word choice and stylistic features of the watchman’s speech add a serious epic tone to his question? (Page 43) • How do Beowulf’s boasts of great deeds and his announcement of his plan establish him as a hero? • How do the “renamings” of Grendel in Line 325 emphasize the significance of the battle that is about to begin? • Which details from the description of the battle between Beowulf and Grendel add realism? Which details add epic grandness? (Page 48)
Classwork • Examine the role of religion in the story. Look for examples of conflict between Christianity and paganism.
Homework • Read The Monsters’ Lair and The Battle with Grendel’s Mother, pages 49-53, and answer corresponding questions.
Do Now • Women are often portrayed in literature in stereotypical ways. Which stereotypes have you seen in other novels or stories you’ve read?
The Monsters' Lair/The Battle with Grendel's Mother • How does the setting of the battle add to its epic significance? Consider what it shows about the realms in which Beowulf has power. • How is Grendel’s mother described in these sections? How does this fit in with stereotypes of women that you have previously encountered in literature? • Biblical portrayals of women • Perfect and angelic • Temptresses and prostitutes • Eve
Classwork • Look for descriptions of Grendel’s mother in the story. Take note of how she is portrayed and how her portrayal is stereotypical of women in literature.
Homework • Read The Last Battle, The Spoils, and The Farewell, pages 54-60, and answer corresponding questions.
Do Now • What are the possible benefits and disadvantages of living a solitary life?
The Last Battle, The Spoils, and The Farewell • According to Wiglaf, what is Beowulf’s relationship with his followers like? • What does Wiglaf’s decision suggest about the way in which a legendary hero can inspire heroism in others? • In Beowulf’s death scene, what is shown about the importance in warrior culture of the commem0ration of individuals after death?
Classwork • Look for connections between Beowulf and other solitary figures in history and literature. In a short speech, justify why it was or was not necessary for Beowulf to be a lonely character in order to be successful.
Homework • Study for quiz.