Beowulf Review: Part 1.1 (Toast, Boast, and Roast)

It indicates that family lineages and reputations will be very important in the work.

It indicates that Hrothgar has too inflated an opinion of himself, which will be his downfall.

It shows that Hrothgar’s reputation is in danger since his ancestors never had problems.

It shows that the poem will be mostly about the history of a group of people and not about a single man.

Sheafson’s biography tells the reader how Grendel first came to Heorot.

Sheafson’s biography lays out a clear standard of heroism by giving a thorough example of heroic actions.

Sheafson’s biography is of dual importance, setting an example for both Beowulf and the monster Grendel.

Sheafson’s biography is a stern warning to would-be heroes of the perils that heroism brings.

Beowulf’s impressive use of language connects to the oral tradition because Beowulf was the first storyteller.

Beowulf’s obvious lack of skill with language shows how nothing from his time was written down.

Beowulf’s skill with language shows how eloquence was highly valued in a culture that related stories through speech.

Beowulf’s skill with language was highlighted in oral tellings of the poem in order to teach children to speak well.

as an orphan; a starting point

as a rich prince; royal validity

in Geatland; a geographic location

in the midst of war; a military context

Fame is a crutch for men who do not live up to their culture’s high standards.

Fame is a form of protection from death, since great deeds will outlast the human lifetime.

Fame is a tantalizing fantasy, something that will never outrun the inevitability of death.

Gaining fame in battle is the only way to become a king in Beowulf’s culture.

The “death-price” is a device used by the poet to foreshadow Beowulf’s death.

The “death-price” was the only way to end cycles of vengeance between families.

The “death-price” was paid before it was known that Beowulf’s lineage was safe.

The “death-price” was paid in the understanding that Beowulf would not have to help Hrothgar.

Both poet and hero have expressed the idea that the “death-price” between families had already been paid.

Both poet and hero have strongly stated that Beowulf has come of his own free will.

The hero does not want to appear weak before Hrothgar’s men, and continues boasting.

The poet wants to show Beowulf’s arrogance in the face of Hrothgar’s wise and powerful leadership.

Boasting in Beowulf’s culture was absolutely normal, but Beowulf cannot prove his claims.

Boasting in eloquent style was a way for Beowulf to seduce the women of Heorot hall.

Boasting of one’s exploits was an integral part of Beowulf’s culture, and earns him respect from all the Danes.

Boasting of one’s exploits was virtually unheard of in Beowulf’s culture, earning Beowulf spite from the Danes.

arrogant reactions; the king’s claims

cowardly speech; Ecgtheow’s death

humble respect; Beowulf’s heroism

petulant behavior; the king’s embarrassment

Both speak in boastful style, but Beowulf’s story reinforces the vital values of his culture.

Both speak in boastful style, but Unferth’s story resonates with the Danes because he is their kin.

Both speak obsessively and aggressively, but Beowulf’s physical strength gives him the edge.

Both boast of their own accomplishments, but Beowulf also speaks fondly of Breca’s heroism.