What images came to your mind as you read this part of the epic? Which image was most vivid?
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In what specific ways does Herot contrast with the place where Grendel lives?
In lines 3-13 the poet describes the bard's songs in Hrothgar's hall. How does
the content of the songs contrast with Grendel and his world?
What significance can you see in the fact that Grendel attacks at night? What
images describing Grendel might associate him with death or darkness?
Why do you think Grendel hates Herot? What symbolic meaning might underlie
the confrontation between Grendel and Hrothgar?
Why do you think it's important to Beowulf and to his image as an epic hero that
he meet Grendel without a weapon? What symbolism do you see in the
uselessness of human weapons against Grendel?
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Why do you think that Beowulf allows Grendel to slaughter one of the Geats
before taking action himself?
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What specific verbs are used to create a tone of fierceness in Beowulf's
confrontation with Grendel?
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How do the actions of Beowulf's men uphold the Anglo-Saxon code of honor?
Why do you think Beowulf hangs Grendel's arm from the rafters of Herot?