PART ONE: Reader Interpretations
Respond fully to ONE of the prompts below, including specific textual support (line numbers) and references (to words, phrases, or general situations within the text).
A. How has the writing style and use of figurative language affected your interpretation of the story?
B. What role do you feel symbolism has played in the story thus far?
C. While it is an ancient text, some aspects of this epic transcend time and still speak powerfully to us today. What parts of this story have you been able to personally relate to? How and why do you think it is a "timeless" tale?
D. How did your background knowledge of Anglo-Saxon history affect your interpretation of the story?
PART TWO: Statement Argumentations
Respond fully to ONE of the prompts below, including specific textual support (line numbers) and references (to words, phrases, or general situations within the text).
E. "Beowulf is certainly a great warrior, but he is no king." Closely examine the differences between Hrothgar and Beowulf, and explain why you agree or find fault with this statement using specific textual support and references.
F. "Beowulf is the epitome of a perfect hero." Considering what we have read thus far, agree or find fault with this statement using specific textual support and references.
G. "Beowulf clearly respects his enemy and the honor of the country he has come to defend." Considering what we have read thus far, agree or find fault with this statement using specific textual support and references.
