Beowulf by Anonymous

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Description:

An Anglo-Saxon epic, Beowulf is as full of suspense, action, blood, and gore as any contemporary movie. The nature of heroism, the virtues of Anglo-Saxon kingship, and the loyalty of kinsmen and sworn followers are some of the themes explored in the work. The poet interweaves the Christian belief in one God with the old Scandinavian pagan acceptance of fate; other threads in the story include the Viking fascination with the sea and the struggle to transcend the inevitability of death. The challenge of monsters and their defeat by a young hero who relied on God and his own strength symbolize for students their own fears and future struggles.

Activities:

Students compare the rhythm of Anglo-Saxon poetry to modern music, identify kennings, and visualize the story’s action through camera and sound direction. They also work with maps and genealogy charts, discuss differences between translations, analyze themes, and consider monsters as symbols of danger, fear, and evil. 

Supplementary materials include essay topics, a crossword puzzle, and objective tests with answer keys.

Ethical Values:

Courage
Endurance
Loyalty
Peace