WRAP-UP QUESTIONS
1. Find three examples of kennings from the boasts above. Briefly explain what you believe each one is referring to.
2. What is the TONE of these boasts? What emotion is Beowulf displaying in his speeches, and how do you know?
3. What is the CONTEXT of the first boast: to whom is Beowulf speaking, and for what reason?
4. What qualities did Beowulf’s father have that made for a good warrior?
5. What is the PURPOSE of mentioning his father in the first boast?
6. How does Beowulf manage both to speak proudly of his own abilities and also to respect the position and power of King Hrothgar? Where do you see him being particularly diplomatic in these speeches?
7. What is the purpose of mentioning (in boast #2) that “every elder and experienced councilman” supported Beowulf’s coming to Hrothgar? 8. What similarities do you see between these two boasts?
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