Discussion Questions

Why does Beowulf go to help the Danes?
Why does Grendel attack the Danes?
What role does the supernatural play in this epic?
What are the heroic characteristics of Beowulf?
What might water represent in this epic?
Describe the role of women in the epic, including Grendel’s mother?
In what ways is the Christian code of conduct different from the Germanic code of conduct?
What does the Fire Dragon represent in the last part of the epic?
In what ways is the old Beowulf like or unlike the young Beowulf?
Can this hero and his achievements and trials in any way mirror your own experience?