essay questions beowulf

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Study Help Essay Questions

1. Discuss the significance of the heroic code of comitatus in Beowulf, considering specifically the actions of Beowulf as a young warrior, Wiglaf as a young warrior, and the cowardly retainers at the dragon fight.

2. Consider two of the following as symbols: Heorot, Grendel's claw, the cave, or the dragon's treasure-hoard.

3. How does the poet use the theme of revenge in the poem? Consider the motivation of characters such as Grendel, Grendel's mother, and the dragon, as well as Beowulf.

4. Other than Beowulf, who is your favorite character in the poem? Why?

5. What is the importance of Hrothgar's sermon? Cite at least two specific points that he makes and how they affect our understanding of Beowulf.

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75 Beowulf Essay Topics

BEOWULF ESSAY TOPICS

Beowulf, penned at the dawn of the 11th century, stands as a cornerstone of Old English literature. This epic poem, extending over 3,000 lines and unfolding across the war-torn landscapes of ancient Scandinavia, offers a rich tapestry of themes and stylistic nuances that continue to fascinate scholars and students alike. When tasked with an essay on Beowulf, selecting an engaging topic is paramount. This article delves into potential subjects for your paper and provides guidance on choosing one that resonates with you.

Table of Contents

Tips for Choosing an Optimal Beowulf Essay Topic

Opting for a topic that genuinely piques your interest rather than a seemingly easy one can significantly enhance the quality of your research and writing. Here’s how you can make an informed choice:

  • Personal Interest: Engage with topics that intrigue you, encouraging deeper thought and thorough research.
  • Uniqueness: While you don’t have to select an obscure subject, strive for a fresh perspective in your discussion, ensuring your essay stands out.
  • Scope: Narrow down broad topics to specific aspects, providing a clear direction for your essay and making it more manageable.

Inspiring Beowulf Essay Topics

Consider exploring various dimensions of the poem through topics such as:

  • The societal roles of women in Beowulf.
  • The effect of digression in enhancing the narrative.
  • The relationship between warriors and lordship.
  • The portrayal of traditional society within the epic.
  • Character development throughout the poem.
  • Lessons derived from the tales of Siegmund and Finn.
  • The theme of male dominance in Beowulf.
  • The significance of Hrothgar’s sermon in understanding the author’s viewpoint.
  • The central role of the mead hall in the community.
  • An in-depth analysis of Grendel’s character.
  • Beowulf’s virtues and flaws.
  • A detailed review of the epic battle between Beowulf and Grendel.
  • Major themes and moral lessons in the story.
  • The eternal clash of good vs. evil as depicted in the poem.
  • An evaluation of Beowulf’s heroism.
  • Parallels between Beowulf and the biblical Cain.
  • The influence of religion in Beowulf’s world.
  • The importance of lineage and ancestry in one’s self-esteem.
  • Beowulf’s leadership qualities or lack thereof.
  • Perspectives on treasure and material wealth within the poem.

Symbolism and Motifs in Beowulf

  • The role of dragons in ancient literature and Beowulf.
  • The significance of the mead hall and community bonding.
  • Water’s symbolic role in Beowulf’s challenges and battles.
  • The representation of light and darkness in the poem.
  • The importance of armor and shields in the poem.

Historical and Cultural Context

  • Beowulf’s relationship with historical Scandinavian events.
  • How Beowulf reflects Anglo-Saxon values and beliefs.
  • Paganism vs. Christianity in Beowulf.
  • The societal structure and its influence on the narrative.
  • The depiction of funeral rites and their significance.

Character Analyses

  • Unferth’s role and contrast with Beowulf.
  • The depiction of women: Wealhtheow and Grendel’s mother.
  • King Hrothgar’s leadership vs. Beowulf’s heroism.
  • The significance of Wiglaf and the idea of loyalty.
  • Analyzing Aeschere’s importance to Hrothgar and the story.

Narrative Techniques and Literary Devices

  • The role of the scop (bard) in Beowulf.
  • The use of kennings and their impact on imagery.
  • Alliteration and its rhythmic role in Beowulf.
  • The function of epic similes in the poem.
  • The influence of oral tradition on the narrative style.

Themes and Philosophies

  • The concept of fate (wyrd) in Beowulf.
  • The price of pride and its consequences.
  • The exploration of mortality and legacy.
  • The balance between courage and recklessness.
  • Revenge as a driving force in Beowulf.

Comparative Analyses

  • Beowulf and modern superheroes: parallels and contrasts.
  • Comparing Beowulf to other epics like “The Iliad” or “Gilgamesh”.
  • Beowulf and the Norse sagas: similarities and differences.
  • The idea of the monstrous in Beowulf vs. other literature.
  • Beowulf’s influence on Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings”.

Broader Perspectives

  • Beowulf’s relevance in the 21st century.
  • The challenges and merits of translating Beowulf.
  • How adaptations (like movies or novels) have interpreted Beowulf.
  • The depiction of heroism in Beowulf vs. modern culture.
  • The ethics and values presented in Beowulf and their applicability today.

In-depth Explorations

  • The importance of loyalty and kinship in the poem.
  • The nature of evil: Analyzing Grendel and his lineage.
  • The concept of legacy in Beowulf’s final act.
  • The depiction of aging and its impact on heroism.
  • The influence of external forces, like God or fate, on characters’ decisions.

Beowulf’s Battles

  • A detailed look into Beowulf’s battle with the dragon.
  • Strategy and might: The takedown of Grendel.
  • Psychological warfare: Beowulf vs. Grendel’s mother.
  • The consequences and aftermath of each of Beowulf’s battles.
  • The role of supernatural vs. human strength in Beowulf’s combat scenes.

Creative Angles for Your Beowulf Essay

Dive into the poem’s depths by examining:

  • The symbolism of gold and its reflection on societal values.
  • The heroic ideals embodied by characters.
  • The significance of weaponry and its portrayal of strength and honor.
  • Gender roles and equality in Beowulf’s era.
  • The portrayal of leadership and its impact on society.
  • Beowulf’s enduring strength and prowess in his later years.
  • The cultural and societal norms depicted in the poem.
  • The integration and importance of religious motifs.
  • A critique of the society within Beowulf, highlighting admirable and disdainful attributes.
  • The exploration of fictional elements within the historical context of the poem.

Concluding Thoughts on Beowulf Essay Topics

Whether you encounter Beowulf in high school or college, crafting an essay on this epic can seem daunting. However, with a topic that strikes a chord with you and a unique angle, your essay can resonate deeply and intellectually. Should you find yourself struggling, remember that professional help is just a click away. Submit an order form, and receive a top-notch, plagiarism-free essay, complete with proper citations and adherence to your guidelines.

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104 Beowulf Essay Topics & Examples

See tips on writing the Beowulf thesis statements and critical analysis of the poem. Also, our experts have prepared a list of ideas and prompts that allow you to explore the archetypal epic hero and more!

55 Beowulf Essay Topics

One of the most important works of literature translated and read the world over is the Old English poem, Beowulf. This heroic epic tells the story of a great warrior who saves a kingdom from a terrible monster. The poem has been adapted into many different forms, including movies, plays, and television shows. As a result, there is a great deal of interest in writing essays on Beowulf.

When you are assigned to write an essay on Beowulf, it can be challenging to decide where to start. There are many different aspects of the poem that you could focus on, such as the characters, the plot, the setting, or the theme.

If you have been assigned a Beowulf essay writing assignment and have no idea where to begin, you’re in luck! This guide will detail the process of crafting a well-written Beowulf essay and provide you with 55 Beowulf essay topics that will help get you started.

Part 1: How to Start Your Beowulf Essay

Before you start writing your essay, there are a few things that you need to do in order to prepare. First, you need to make sure that you clearly understand the poem. It is essential to read the poem carefully and note any particular passages that stand out to you. These passages will be important when you start to write your essay.

Next, you need to decide what angle you want to take with your essay. For example, do you want to focus on the characters in the poem? The plot? The setting? Or the theme? Once you have decided on a focus, you can start to narrow down your topic.

For example, if you want to write about the characters in Beowulf, you could focus on a specific character, such as Beowulf himself, or you could compare and contrast two or more characters.

If you want to write about the plot, you could focus on a specific event, such as the battle with the dragon, or you could discuss how the plot unfolds overall.

If you want to write about the setting, you could focus on a specific location, such as Heorot Hall, or discuss how the different settings in the poem contribute to the story.

And if you want to write about the theme, you could focus on a specific theme, such as loyalty or betrayal, or discuss how the different themes in the poem contribute to the story.

Once you have decided on your focus, you can start to brainstorm ideas for your essay. First, make a list of all of the ideas that come to mind, and then narrow down your list by choosing the best ideas.

Once you have a list of potential topics, it is time to choose the one you want to write about. Remember that your essay should be focused and well-organized, so make sure that your topic is specific enough to cover it adequately in the assignment parameters you have been given.

Part 2: How to Write Your Beowulf Essay

Now that you have chosen your topic and done some brainstorming, it is time to start writing your essay. There are a few things that you need to keep in mind as you write.

First, you need to make sure that your essay has a clear thesis statement. Your thesis statement is the main point you want to make in your essay. The thesis statement will be the foundation on which your entire essay is built, so make sure it is clear and concise.

Next, you need to make sure that your essay is well-organized with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction should introduce your topic and provide background information if necessary. Each body paragraph should focus on one specific point supporting your thesis statement. The conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement.

Finally, you need to make sure that your essay is well-written. Your sentences should be short and to the point. Avoid using unnecessary words or fillers. And make sure that your grammar and punctuation are correct.

Part 3: How to Finish Your Beowulf Essay

Once you have written your essay, it is time to finish up by proofreading your essay for any mistakes. In addition to basic grammar and spelling, you’ll also want to ensure that you use the correct MLA formatting for citing poems.

MLA formatting for citations requires quotes around the text. After the quotes, you’ll need to put the title of the work in Italics followed by any applicable page numbers, section numbers, and line numbers – in that order and separated with a period mark. The final punctuation should come at the end of the citation outside of the last parenthesis. For example:

“…From the rafters where Beowulf had hung it, was….” ( Beowulf 49.834).

And if you are quoting multiple verses, be sure to put a forward slash between each verse as follows:

“Hanging high/ From the rafters where Beowulf had hung it, was/ the monster’s/ Arm, claw, and shoulder and all” ( Beowulf 49.833-836).

Be aware that some translations of Beowulf may not provide section or line numbers, in which case, the citation should include the title of the poem and the page number the verse was found on.

With the guide above detailing the process of crafting a well-written Beowulf essay and this list of 55 Beowulf topics, students should have no problem choosing a direction for their writing.

Beowulf Essay Topics About Loyalty

  • How does Beowulf’s loyalty to Hrothgar change throughout the poem?
  • Is Grendel’s mother motivated by vengeance or loyalty to her son in attacking Heorot?
  • Is Unferth a loyal companion to Beowulf, or does he envy him?
  • How does Wiglaf’s loyalty to Beowulf compare to the other Geats in the poem?
  • Is Hygelac’s death a result of his loyalty to Beowulf or his own hubris?

Beowulf Essay Topics About Fate

  • Does Beowulf believe that fate plays a role in his success or failure?
  • How does Beowulf’s view of fate compare to the views of other characters in the poem?
  • Do the Geats believe that Beowulf’s death was fated, or could it have been prevented?
  • What role does fate play in the development of Grendel’s character?
  • Is Grendel’s mother’s death a result of fate or her own actions?

Beowulf Essay Topics About Good vs. Evil

  • How is the theme of good vs. evil explored in Beowulf?
  • Who do you believe to be the evilest character in Beowulf? Why?
  • Compare and contrast the characters of Beowulf and Grendel.
  • How is the theme of good vs. evil explored through the relationship between Beowulf and Hrothgar?
  • Do you believe that Grendel’s mother is truly evil, or is she simply a victim of circumstance?

Beowulf Essay Topics About Religion

  • What role does religion play in Beowulf?
  • Do the characters in Beowulf believe in fate, or do they believe they can control their destiny?
  • How does Christianity influence the characters’ views of good vs. evil?
  • How does Christianity influence the characters’ views of loyalty?
  • What role does Christianity play in the development of Grendel’s character?

Beowulf Essay Topics About Strength

  • How does Beowulf’s physical strength compare to his mental and emotional strength?
  • How does Beowulf’s physical strength compare to the strength of other characters in the poem?
  • Is Grendel’s strength rooted in the physical, mental, or emotional?
  • Who do you consider the strongest character in the poem? Why?
  • How does strength play a role in the development of Grendel’s character?

Beowulf Essay Topics About Love

  • Does Beowulf love anyone in the poem? If so, who and why?
  • How does Beowulf’s view of love compare to the views of other characters in the poem?
  • Do the Geats love Beowulf? Why or why not?
  • How does love play a role in the development of Grendel’s character?
  • Is Grendel’s mother motivated by love or hate in her attacks on Heorot?

Beowulf Essay Topics About Family

  • How does Beowulf’s relationship with his family differ from other characters’ relationships in the poem?
  • How does Beowulf feel about family?
  • How does Grendel’s mother feel about him?
  • Do the Geats have a strong sense of family? If so, how does it compare to Beowulf’s sense of family?
  • How does family play a role in the development of Grendel’s character?

Beowulf Essay Topics About Courage

  • How does Beowulf’s definition of courage compare to the definitions of other characters in the poem?
  • How does courage play a role in Beowulf’s success or failure?
  • Is Grendel’s mother motivated by courage or fear in her attacks on Heorot?
  • How does courage play a role in the development of Grendel’s character?
  • How does Unferth’s lack of courage compare to Beowulf’s courage?

Beowulf Essay Topics About Honor

  • What is the definition of honor according to Beowulf?
  • How does Beowulf’s view of honor compare to the views of other characters in the poem?
  • How does honor play a role in Beowulf’s success or failure?
  • Show examples of how Beowulf puts his honor above everything else.
  • How does honor play a role in the development of Grendel’s character?

Beowulf Essay Topics About Vengeance

  • How is the theme of vengeance expressed in Beowulf?
  • Compare and contrast the motivations for vengeance of Beowulf and Grendel’s mother.
  • How does vengeance play a role in Beowulf’s success or failure?
  • Is vengeance the central theme of Beowulf? Explain your reasoning.
  • How does vengeance play a role in the development of Grendel’s character?

Fun Beowulf Essay Topics

  • Imagine and write about a day in the life of Beowulf as his fame and legend grow.
  • Write a letter from Grendel’s mother to her son explaining her actions.
  • Rewrite the ending of Beowulf from Grendel’s perspective.
  • Use persuasive arguments to defend the point that Grendel is the true hero of the poem.
  • Write about the qualities of an ideal hero as it relates to Beowulf.

Writing a Beowulf essay doesn’t have to be hard – especially if you choose one of the topics from this list. With a little creativity and effort, you can write an essay that will stand out from the rest.

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Simplified beowulf essay guide: themes, topics, and examples.

By Evans Dec 02 2020

Beowulf is a piece of English literature depicting Beowulf's feats and life. He is a courageous legendary warrior who conquered beasts and helped people. Although the poem used alliteration as the literary device that creates rhythm and unity. Beowulf poem can be hard to interpret and understand right away. Fortunately, one of our expert writers has simplified by giving you a quick summary, plot and outlines, essay topics, examples, and themes.

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Summary of the Poem

In the poem, Beowulf encounters three beasts and defeats them. The section below discusses each of them as a different life milestone and performance as a great warrior and commander.

First Battle

Grendel, a monster, terrorizes Hrothgar together with his warriors. The monster cannot stand happiness and joy and punishes people for celebrating. Moreover, he feasts on Hrothgar's men every day.

A few years ago, Heorat saved Ecgtheow, Beowulf's father, from death. Immediately, Beowulf hears about the Heorot's trouble, together with fourteen men, he sets to leave his homeland and assist Hrothgar.

Hrothgar's men welcome Beowulf, and they feast. When everyone is sleeping, the monster comes to Heorot. He attacks the mead-hall and kills one of Beowulf's men. Then he attempts to kill and eat Beowulf but fails. Instead, Beowulf gets hold of his hand and rips it off his body from the shoulder. Severely injured, the monster flees. Men praise Beowulf, and, in the glory, Beowulf hangs Grendel's claw off the ceiling.

Second Battle

After defeating the ogre, people celebrate, play music, drink, and eat delicious food.   Additionally, Hrothgar and his wife award Beowulf a golden collar.

Everyone sleeps after the celebrations, and Grendel's mother, a water witch, interrupts their peace. She comes to seek vengeance against Beowulf. She takes her son's arm off the ceiling and kidnaps Aeschere while all people are sleeping.

The following day, Beowulf and his men leave in search of the water witch. While looking for the tracks, they notice Aeschere's head on a mountain and follow the lead. Beowulf gets into the cave and finds the witch. She drags him to the lake, and they start fighting. Her attacks do not overpower Beowulf. Thanks to his sword's power.

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essay questions beowulf

Beowulf sees another sword in the cave and uses it to pierce her and cut her neck and spine. Her blood melts this sword and shines a ray of light, which illuminates the cave.

Third Battle

After the victory, Beowulf and his men return to their homeland. Hygelac and his son die in a battle, and Beowulf is crowned the king and reigns peacefully for fifty years.

One day, a dragon interrupts peace. The dragon is annoyed because a goblet it had guarded for ages had been stolen. The dragon burnt houses and killed innocent inhabitants.

Beowulf gathered 11 brave warriors and the thief who knew where the beast lived and prepared to battle it. The dragon looked terrified, and all the warriors ran away. Only Wiglaf, Beowulf's most loyal warrior, remained, and they defeated the beast.

Unfortunately, the king is severely injured and succumbs. On his sickbed, he leaves the kingdom to Wiglaf as a reward for standing with him.

Beowulf Essay Topics Guide

When asked to write an essay about Beowulf, it is worth noting that the essay is heroic and has changeable and universal topics . It is because this piece of literature draws convincing and new attention in the contemporary world. Perfect examples of essay topics include:

·          Is Beowulf a perfect king or hero? Is there anything that lacks in his character?

·          The role digressions play in the poem. What light do they shed on the action?

·          Importance of establishing an identity

·          Tensions between heroic code and other value systems

·          The difference between a good king and a good hero

Beowulf Themes

A theme is an overarching belief or idea that a writer expresses in their text. The recurring idea becomes essential when the reader interpret their understanding of the piece of literature to compare and apply various things or incidents. Themes in Beowulf, including the following, surpass races and cultures.

Heroic Code

Heroic code is one of the central Beowulf themes. The honourable manner and conduct dominate the Anglo-Saxon culture . The zeal to fight, courage, and bravery were the basic norms of the heroic code. Beowulf sticks to the standards when he meets the Danes. He fights Grendel and kills the monster after claiming that he will settle the result in one combat. This utterance resonates again when he meets with Grendel's mother. When he's older, he portrays bravery traits by killing the dragon at the expense of his life.

The theme of Loyalty in Beowulf essay

On a battlefield or during the war, all soldiers should be loyal to their comrades and country. Loyalty is evident through the conflict between Beowulf and Unferth. Unferth taunts Beowulf and is disloyal to the king until he knows the truth. Beowulf's loyalty to Hrothgar, on the other hand, is because of the help and refuge the king extended to his father. Finally, while other warriors fled in terror during the battle with the dragon, only Wiglaf stood with the king.

Although Beowulf comes to help Hrothgar, he wants to seek vengeance for the Danes that Grendel killed. Grendel kills Danes because their singing disturbed his peace. Additionally, Grendel's mother attacks when people are asleep because she is angry with her son's brutal death.

Beowulf also seeks vengeance against the dragon for its massive killings. The dragon's killings and conduct are revenge for its lost cup.

Blind revenge was a fundamental part of medieval culture.

The Responsibility of a Ruler

Any responsible ruler should protect his people and rule justly. Both Beowulf and King Hrothgar are popular among the people. KingHrothgar felt obligated to entertain his people and built the mead-hall where Danes could sing and enjoy.

Beowulf protects the Geat tribes for many years. The obligation costed his life when he fought the dragon.

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Beowulf Study Guide

Beowulf is the most ancient text in Old English that has been preserved till nowadays. Scientists still wrestle over many questions related to the manuscript. Did a single author write it? Why was the next unnamed? What is its literary value?

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This Beowulf Study Guide prepared by Custom-Writing.org experts answers some of these questions and gives clues to a better understanding of the story of Beowulf.

Beowulf Key Facts

Beowulf study guide: articles.

The poem’s summary

If you need to quickly figure out the intricacies of the poem’s plot, this page will be helpful. It contains Beowulf plot overview, a timeline, and chapter summaries.

Character analysis  

This article on Beowulf characters analyses Beowulf, Grendel, Hrothgar, Grendel’s mother, Unferth, and minor characters of the famous epic poem.

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Themes of Beowulf  

Want to learn more about themes in Beowulf ? Chech this article then. Christianity, hospitality, loyalty, bravery – all the poem’s themes are described here.

Symbolism & literary analysis  

Is Beowulf an epic? Where does it take place? Find all the answers in this article. It focuses on the poem’s symbols, metaphors, setting, genre, etc.

Essay topics and examples  

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If you need to write a Beowulf essay, check the collection we’ve prepared. It contains Beowulf essay samples as well as a list of the topics and prompts.

Beowulf Q&A  

Looking for questions and answers about the epic poem? On this page, you’ll find the answers to the most pressing questions about Beowulf. Enjoy!

Beowulf Historical Context

The plot is set between the 5th and the 8th century . That is why it was also a historical text for its creator, who lived several centuries later. The historical background of the poem (for instance, the construction of Heorot) helped scientists define the time frame and the location when and where the events took place.

In 2013, archaeologists found the ruins of Heorot. The excavations were carried out in Lejre, Denmark, some 20 miles from Copenhagen.

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The poem is swinging from the pagan to Christian traditions and back. It is another confirmation of the timing assumptions of scholars. Beowulf could be composed long before the manuscript we know. It could be an orally transmitted legend that was later written down to be preserved as a legacy. The manuscript writer lived when the Christian religion grew stronger. Pagan rites and views of life faded away.

For this reason, we should read Beowulf in the context of hundreds of years that contributed to its creation. For example, the wrath of Grendel is a multilayered symbol. In the 5 th century, it meant unknown and illogical evil that threatened everyone who went too far from their settlement. In the 11 th century, it was already the symbol of the Biblical devil .

The handwriting analysis shows that two English monks composed the text at the beginning of the 11th century.

The manuscript is in the British Museum . It is among the most translated texts in human history because its themes and issues are eternal. Medieval people enjoyed the heroism, honor, and loyalty of the main hero. Modern readers also find the characters relatable, and the theme of good and evil is topical now as never before.

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Which Features of the Anglo-Saxon Culture Are Present in Beowulf?

Which Features of the Anglo-Saxon Culture Are Present in Beowulf?

In Beowulf, the Anglo-Saxon culture manifests itself in gift-giving, hospitality, feasts and celebrations, and the mixture of Pagan and Christian traditions. Such notions as lords, thanes, and warrior tribes were also typical for this culture. In the Anglo-Saxon culture, any achievement in a battle had to be rewarded. There were...

Why Does Beowulf Fight the Dragon?

Why Does Beowulf Fight the Dragon?

Beowulf was too old for the battle with the dragon. He sensed his death was soon. But he was a king, and kings are responsible for their people. The dragon attacked their homes, so Beowulf had to eliminate it. Besides, in Anglo-Saxon culture, dying in a battle was considered the...

Why Does Beowulf Sail to Denmark?

Why Does Beowulf Sail to Denmark?

At the time when Beowulf was written, and even more so when the described events took place, there was no such a country like Denmark. Beowulf took fifteen chosen companions with him to fight a man-eating monster who threatened the Danish tribe. There were several reasons why he decided to...

What Is the Main Conflict in Beowulf?

What Is the Main Conflict in Beowulf?

Apart from some other conflicts that mainly fall under the category “Person Vs. Person,” the central conflict is “Person Vs. Supernatural.” Accordingly, the poem describes three battles of Beowulf: with Grendel, his mother, and the dragon. All of them are evil supernatural creatures that kill people and threaten their mead-halls....

What Is Beowulf About?

What Is Beowulf About?

The epic poem tells the life story of a Geatish hero, his feats, and achievements. He sails to the land of the Danes to help them fight Grendel, a monster who ate people. This storyline is enframed with the lineage of the Danish kings and other historical or fictional events...

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Essays on Beowulf

Beowulf essay topic examples.

Find a variety of essay topics, introduction paragraph examples, and conclusion paragraph examples for different essay types. Your choice of topic can greatly impact the quality and depth of your essay, so choose wisely!

Argumentative Essays

Argumentative essays require you to analyze and present arguments related to the epic poem. Here are some topic examples:

  • 1. Debate whether Beowulf is a typical epic hero or a unique character.
  • 2. Argue whether the monsters in the poem symbolize inner human struggles or external threats.

Example Introduction Paragraph for an Argumentative Essay: The epic poem Beowulf introduces us to a hero of unparalleled strength and valor. This essay explores the character of Beowulf, examining whether he adheres to the conventional traits of an epic hero or represents a distinctive figure in the realm of heroic literature.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for an Argumentative Essay: In conclusion, the analysis of Beowulf's character challenges our understanding of epic heroes. Whether he is a classic archetype or a unique creation, Beowulf continues to captivate readers with his timeless heroism. As we ponder his legacy, we are reminded that heroism takes on various forms, transcending the boundaries of time and culture.

Compare and Contrast Essays

Compare and contrast essays enable you to examine similarities and differences within the epic or between it and other literary works. Consider these topics:

  • 1. Compare and contrast the character traits of Beowulf and Achilles from Homer's The Iliad .
  • 2. Analyze the similarities and differences between the epic battles in Beowulf and Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings .

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Compare and Contrast Essay: The characters of Beowulf and Achilles occupy a special place in the pantheon of literary heroes. This essay embarks on a journey to compare and contrast these iconic figures, exploring the traits that make them heroic and the differences that set them apart.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Compare and Contrast Essay: In conclusion, the comparison and contrast of Beowulf and Achilles offer insights into the multifaceted nature of heroism in literature. While they share certain heroic qualities, their distinct characteristics reflect the diversity of hero archetypes across different cultural narratives.

Descriptive Essays

Descriptive essays allow you to vividly depict settings, characters, or events within the epic poem. Here are some topic ideas:

  • 1. Describe the grandeur of Heorot, King Hrothgar's hall, in detail.
  • 2. Paint a detailed portrait of Grendel, focusing on his physical appearance and monstrous nature.

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Descriptive Essay: Heorot, the grand mead hall of King Hrothgar, stands as a majestic centerpiece in the world of Beowulf . This essay embarks on a descriptive journey to capture the splendor and significance of Heorot, immersing the reader in the heart of the poem's setting.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Descriptive Essay: In conclusion, the descriptive portrayal of Heorot in Beowulf not only serves as a setting but also symbolizes the ideals of camaraderie and culture. Through this exploration, we are reminded of the enduring power of place and atmosphere in storytelling.

Persuasive Essays

Persuasive essays involve arguing a point of view related to the epic poem. Consider these persuasive topics:

  • 1. Persuade your readers that Beowulf's battles against monsters symbolize the eternal struggle between good and evil.
  • 2. Argue for or against the idea that Beowulf is not just a hero but also a symbol of leadership and sacrifice.

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Persuasive Essay: The epic battles fought by Beowulf against monstrous foes transcend mere physical combat. This persuasive essay asserts that these confrontations symbolize a timeless battle between the forces of good and evil, shedding light on the broader moral landscape of the poem.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Persuasive Essay: In conclusion, the persuasive argument regarding the symbolic nature of Beowulf's battles underscores the epic's enduring relevance as a moral and philosophical exploration. As we contemplate the allegorical dimensions of his feats, we are encouraged to reflect on the eternal struggle between righteousness and malevolence in our own lives.

Narrative Essays

Narrative essays offer you the opportunity to tell a story or share personal experiences related to the themes of the epic. Explore these narrative essay topics:

  • 1. Narrate a personal experience where you faced a formidable challenge and drew inspiration from Beowulf's character.
  • 2. Imagine yourself as a character in the world of Beowulf and recount your adventures alongside the hero.

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Narrative Essay: In the tapestry of our lives, we often encounter challenges that test our mettle. This narrative essay explores a personal experience where I confronted a daunting challenge and drew inspiration from the indomitable spirit of Beowulf, a character of enduring heroism.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Narrative Essay: In conclusion, the narrative of my personal journey, inspired by the heroism of Beowulf, reminds us that courage and determination are virtues that transcend time and place. As we reflect on our own heroic moments, we are encouraged to embrace the hero within each of us.

Exploring The Legacy and Character of Beowulf

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Comparison Between Beowulf The Anglo-saxon Hero and The Modern Day Hero

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The Characteristics of a Hero in The Anglo-saxon Epic Beowulf

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The Code of Honor, Courage, and The Dreadful Female Character in The World of Beowulf

Elements of christianity and paganism in the works of beowulf, important factor in the anglo-saxon culture: beowulf, the illustration of the attributes of a leader as described in beowulf, the role of grendel’s mother in beowulf, the meaning of rings in beowulf, symbols of faith and traditions in beowulf, why beowulf is not an anglo-saxon hero, the topic of loyalty and vengeance in beowulf, grendel’s point of view in beowulf as the perfect hero/villain, representation of the themes of honor and heroism in beowulf , review of the subject of christian faith as illustrated in the classic poem beowulf, analysis of beowulf's character development troughout the poem, analysis of women and their fundamental roles in beowulf, beowulf – a hero of ancient scandinavia, three good kings of beowulf, hero vs monster in the poem beowulf, danish paganism and christianity in beowulf, beowulf: oral literature in writing, two monsters alike: beowulf vs. grendel.

Disputed (c. 700 - 1000 AD), first printed edition by Thorklelin (1815); Author is unknown

Old English Epic Poem; Epic Heroic Writing

Beowulf, Hygelac, Hrothgar, Wealhþeow, Hrothulf, Æschere, Unferth, Grendel, Grendel's mother, Wiglaf, Hildeburh

It mixes together various fictional, legendary, and fiction elements that relate to 7th century epics

Heroism, competition, faith, monsters, honor, deeds of valour, and the battles

It is a reflection of strength and coming at impossible missions by showing how supernatural powers and faith can defeat the monsters

It tells a story about Beowulf who is considered a hero of the Geats who comes to help Hrothgar, the Danish king. His great hall is affected by the monster called Grendel. As Beowulf kills Grendel without any weapon, he has to start with another mission to prove his strength.

Beowulf represents the longest poem written in Old English with entire action related to Scandinavia. It does not mention the British Isles even once although it is exactly where Old English has been in use. The original manuscript of Beowulf was damaged on October 23, 1731 because of a fire. The original manuscript of Beowulf was damaged on October 23, 1731 because of a fire. As the heroic poem, Beowulf implements 36 different words that all stand for "heroism", "heroic", or "hero" because of the various dialects that represented Old English. Some scholars believe that Beowulf could be influenced by Homer since it shares similar structure and the epic element of the famous Iliad. The author of Jurassic Park (Michael Crichton) even made a bet whether he could use Beowulf as a foundation for something entertaining and accessible. It was his Eaters of the Dead novel that was published in 1976. When Beowulf manuscript has been discovered, archeologists were convinced that they have found the remains of the famous Heorot Hall, which has been concluded by reading the epic.

“It is always better to avenge dear ones than to indulge in mourning. For every one of us, living in this world means waiting for our end. Let whoever can win glory before death. When a warrior is gone, that will be his best and only bulwark.” “Behaviour that's admired is the path to power among people everywhere.” “Anyone with gumption and a sharp mind will take the measure of two things: what's said and what's done.” “And a young prince must be prudent like that, giving freely while his father lives so that afterwards, in age when fighting starts steadfast companions will stand by him and hold the line.” “Death is not easily escaped, try it who will; but every living soul among the children of men dwelling upon the earth goeth of necessity unto his destined place, where the body, fast in its narrow bed, sleepeth after feast.”

The main purpose of The Beowulf is to tell a heroic story and entertain the readers since the epic poem must offer an inspiring storytelling. Since it relates to the late sixth and seventh century with the Scandinavian influences, it represents an oral tradition that has been written down. It is an important aspect for linguists and those who want to study heroic literary representations.

As the famous Old English epic, Beowulf represents a rare heritage in terms of oral word comprehension and a linguistic structure that tells an epic story. It can be useful not only for those who study Linguistics or English literature because it also brings up the topics of courage, dedication, faith, and the responsibilities that come along with power. Some essay topics that deal with Beowulf focus on the socio-cultural aspect of relations in this important epic. Since it deals with Scandinavia, some cultural traits are studied through the lens of the Western society by comparing things to anything from the Civil War in the United States to modern society.

1. Brady, C. (1982). ‘Warriors’ in Beowulf: an analysis of the nominal compounds and an evaluation of the poet's use of them. Anglo-Saxon England, 11, 199-246. (https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/anglo-saxon-england/article/warriors-in-beowulf-an-analysis-of-the-nominal-compounds-and-an-evaluation-of-the-poets-use-of-them/DE8DA47FADF469024BFEB16994E9B342) 2. Hughes, G. (1977). Beowulf, unferth and hrunting: An interpretation. English Studies, 58(5), 385-395. (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00138387708597845?journalCode=nest20) 3. Hume, K. (1975). The Theme and Structure of" Beowulf". Studies in Philology, 72(1), 1-27. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/4173860) 4. Mohigul, M., & Nargiza, T. (2022). STYLISTIC AND LINGUOPOETIC ANALYSIS OF EPIC POEM “BEOWULF”. Involta Scientific Journal, 1(13), 20-24. (https://involta.uz/index.php/iv/article/view/367) 5. Bjork, R. E. (1994). Speech as gift in Beowulf. Speculum, 69(4), 993-1022. (https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/abs/10.1017/S0038713400030177?journalCode=spc) 6. Wiersma, S. M. (1961). A LINGUISTIC ANALYSIS OF WORDS REFERRING TO MONSTERS IN" BEOWULF.". The University of Wisconsin-Madison. (https://www.proquest.com/openview/583ab51711089bcbe64f79c8c32325af/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y) 7. Leyerle, J. (1967). The interlace structure of Beowulf. University of Toronto Quarterly, 37(1), 1-17. (https://www.utpjournals.press/doi/abs/10.3138/utq.37.1.1) 8. Earl, J. W. (2022). Thinking About ‘Beowulf’. In Thinking About ‘Beowulf’. Stanford University Press. (https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/9781503621701/html?lang=en)

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essay questions beowulf

105 Beowulf Essay Topics

🏆 best essay topics on beowulf, ✍️ beowulf essay topics for college, 🎓 most interesting beowulf research titles, 💡 simple beowulf essay ideas, ❓ beowulf essay questions.

  • Beowulf: Comparing the Movie and the Book
  • Legends of British Literature: Beowulf and Macbeth
  • Beowulf as a Tragic Hero of the Old English Warrior Culture
  • Themes in Beowulf: Annotated Bibliography
  • “Beowulf” and “The Lord of the Rings” Literary Comparison
  • Medieval Imagination: Beowulf vs. Russian Mythos
  • “Beowulf”: Cultural Elements of the Anglo-Saxon Piece of Literature
  • The Role and Significance of Women in “Beowulf” “Beowulf” is a poetic text in English literature depicting the events of a heroic man in the 6th century. This paper discusses the importance of female characters in “Beowulf”.
  • The Inclusion of Cain in the “Beowulf”: Understanding Grendel’s Actions Scholars have long debated whether or not “Beowulf” is a Christian allegory or a wholly pagan work with only a smattering of Old Testament allusions.
  • “Beowulf”: Character Analysis of the Epic Poem Beowulf was first written down sometime around 1000 AD, but there is evidence that the poem had been transferred through oral tradition for centuries.
  • Fate vs. Free Will in Beowulf, The Wanderer, and The Seafarer “Beowulf”, “The Seafarer”, and “The Wanderer” provide us with insight into the spiritual foundation of this civilization as being rather biologically than religiously defined.
  • Knights in Literature: Sir Gawain, Canterbury Tales, & Beowulf Analysis The paper will analysis the knight’s tales: “Beowulf”, “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight”, “The Miller’s Tale”, “The Wife of Bath”, “The Nun’s Priest” and the “Pardoner”.
  • Heroism of Beowulf and Sir Gawain Comparison The ancient world is often characterized as a world of evil pagan belief systems, full of multiple gods and evil supernatural adversaries.
  • “Beowulf” & “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight” Comparison The epic of Beowulf portrays a condition of imminent disaster. This poem is a portrayal of the virtue of loyalty among the leaders and troops of that period.
  • Religion in “Beowulf”, “The Wife of Bath Tale”, and “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale” The three poems, “Beowulf”, “The Nun’s Priest Tale”, and “The Wife of Bath Tale”, have some religious twists. This paper shows how spirituality is a guide when applied with reason.
  • An Ideal Hero in the “Beowulf” Old English Poem The idea of a brave character named Beowulf is laid down in an Old English poem “Beowulf” which was created by an unknown author approximately at the end of the VII century.
  • The Rise of Western Civilization in Beowulf: Critical Analysis Even though an old Anglo-Saxon poem “Beowulf” is assumed to contain motifs that are largely mythical in their essence, many of these motifs do relate to the realities of the time when the poem was written.
  • Fate in Beowulf and Shakespeare’s Macbeth In Beowulf and Macbeth, the main characters were significantly influenced by fate; but it was feasible for them to make decisions and obtain control over life’s happenings.
  • Beowulf, The National Epic of the Anglo-Saxons This paper concentrates on the first episode, and presents a clear picture of the customs and traditions of the Anglo-Saxons and an understandable depiction of Beowulf’s character.
  • “Beowulf”, an Old English Epic Poem in the Tradition of Germanic Heroic Legend “Beowulf” is one of the perfect examples of a heroic epic. The poem describes the ancient Germanic legends dating back to pagan times.
  • Examination of the Heroes Beowulf and The Knight The heroes Beowulf and the Knight possess several matching and contrasting qualities, both manifesting a good individual’s traits and behaviors.
  • Grendel as a Personification of Evil in “Beowulf” Poem Beasts, especially Grendel, are of fundamental importance to the main themes of the poem “Beowulf”, giving it a sublime tone and high seriousness.
  • Western Civilization: Beowulf as a Hero Beowulf is a poem that was written in Old English by an unknown author somewhere around the seventh or the eighth century.
  • Women in “Beowulf”, “Inferno”, and “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale” This paper aims to discuss the female characters’ prominent position in the poems “Beowulf,” “Inferno,” and “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.”
  • King Lear and Beowulf: Compare & Contrast English literature contains wonderful works related to royal families as well as common individuals that teach the readers ethical principles, moral lessons.
  • The Image of Epic Heroes in Gilgamesh, the Iliad, and Beowulf Gilgamesh from the Epic of Gilgamesh, Achilles and Agamemnon from The Iliad, and Beowulf from the epic Beowulf may serve as the best examples of epic characters, which represent the image of a hero.
  • Grendel’s Story in Poem “Beowulf” Grendel can be considered one of the most absorbing heroes in “Beowulf”. He has a bestial rage based on human emotions such as resentment and envy.
  • A Comparison of the Poem “Beowulf” With the Screenplay The poem “Beowulf” is based on the values of a different time and a different mentality, unlike the film, which only used the original idea.
  • Beowulf’s Path as a King in Beowulf by Seamus Heaney Throughout the story, Beowulf is shown as a brave and mighty warrior who wants to protect his people: Beowulf by Seamus Heaney.
  • Beowulf’s Motivation for Slaying Grendel Being one of the oldest and by far most famous epic poems in English literature, “Beowulf” still remains an engaging and exciting story of magnificent proportions.
  • The Battle with Grendel’s Mother in the Beowulf Poem Grendel’s mother is one of the three main antagonists of the poem “Beowulf.” This paper examines the episode of the battle between her and the protagonist, Beowulf.
  • “Beowulf” Poem and Old English “Beowulf”, a poem, the creation of which dates back to the 8th century, is a work of literature that marks the start of the Old English language.
  • Review of “Beowulf” Poem by Heaney Seamus The article presents information about main monsters in “Beowulf” poem and discusses about its roles and impacts in the plot.
  • Beowulf as a Great Leader in the Old English Epic Poem As befits an epic hero, Beowulf possesses almost superhuman qualities when it comes to performing on a battlefield. His physical strength has no equal.
  • Main Character and Heroism in “Beowulf” Strength of character, dignity, and commitment all contribute to the theme of heroism in Beowulf, as evidenced by the events and actions of the main character.
  • Contemporary Literature: Beowulf, the Movie The Beowulf movie tries to heighten the characteristics of the epic of antiquity, where it simply starts in the middle (into the middle of certain affairs).
  • Beowulf, a Never Forgotten Hero The events narrated in Beowulf took place in an age where local lords and kings relied on their charisma and the loyalty of their men.
  • Grendel Character in “Beowulf”: An Analysis of Story In this story, the plot revolves around a warrior named Grendel and his mother. These main characters help the reader see the dark and terrifying side of a culture.
  • British Literature: Heroism in Beowulf, Gawain and Viola While Gawain and Viola present heroic qualities and features of the main characters, Beowulf describes is clearly seen as a true hero.
  • Christian Ethics and the Values of Being a Hero in the Epic of Beowulf
  • Bravery, Honor, and Selflessness in Battle: A Review of Beowulf and His Heroic Traits
  • The Use of Fealty in “Beowulf” by Seamus Heaney and the Anglo-Saxon Poem “Dream of the Rood”
  • Achilles and Beowulf: Warriors of Boundless Strength
  • How the Author Captures the Reader’s Attention and Imagination in the Poem “Beowulf”
  • “Beowulf” and “The 13th Warrior”: Exposing True Anglo-Saxon Warriors’ Battle
  • Agamemnon’s and Beowulf’s Leadership Skills in “Antigone” by Sophocles and “Beowulf”
  • The Concept of God in “Beowulf” and Other Anglo-Saxon Poems
  • Brain Power vs. Physical Strength: Beowulf’s Character Revealed in Monster Fighting
  • The Good and Evil: Beowulf and the Evil of the Monsters
  • Alex vs. Beowulf: The Antithesis of a Lifetime
  • Hero Archetypes and Epic Conventions in “The Odyssey” and “Beowulf”
  • Beowulf: The Greatest Hero in History or Not
  • The Characters Who Are Worthy of Sympathy in the Epic of Beowulf
  • Anglo-Saxons and Beowulf: The Hero Figure in the Epic Narrative and in Anglo-Saxon Culture
  • The Mythical, Marvelous, and Fantastic in the Epic of Beowulf
  • How Christianity and Paganism Coexisted in “Beowulf”
  • From Paganism to Christianity: Comparison Between “The Dream of the Rood”, “Beowulf”, and Religious Texts
  • Analyzing Differences Between Two Versions of “Beowulf”: The Original vs the 1971 Version Written by John Gardner
  • Self-Realization and the Hero’s Quest in “Beowulf”, “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight”, and “Everyman”
  • Humanity’s Inclination Towards Literature as Evidence in the Epic of Beowulf
  • Beowulf’s Everlasting Struggle Between Good and Evil
  • All the Traits That Make Beowulf a True Epic Hero
  • Literary Monsters: Grendel From “Beowulf” and Frankenstein From Mary Shelley’s Novel
  • Evaluating Beowulf’s Dark Side in the Story “Beowulf”
  • Christian and Pagan Elements in “Beowulf”
  • “Beowulf” and the Intent of Christians to Convert Pagans Into Christianity
  • How the Dragon Provides the Most Dramatic Development in “Beowulf”
  • The Early Germanic Values Presented in “Beowulf”
  • Ancient Societies: Greece, Rome, and the World of Beowulf
  • Hercules and Beowulf: Comparing Heroic Features and Adventures of Two Characters
  • “Macbeth” and “Beowulf”: Evil Defined by Human Preoccupation
  • Anglo-Saxon Ideal Code of Conduct in “Beowulf”
  • “Beowulf” and “The Song of Roland”: The Theme of Father-Son Relationship
  • Pagan and Christian Concepts of Fate in “Beowulf”
  • Beowulf’s Courage and Determination to Defeat the Dragon
  • Ronald Reagan and Beowulf: Heroes Near and Far
  • Beowulf, Sir Gawain, and Prince Hamlet on the Nature of Man
  • The Connection Between Hrothgar’s Sermon, Beowulf’s Fate, and the Theme of Restlessness in the Story of Beowulf
  • Beowulf: The Anglo-Saxon Epic Hero and Poem
  • The Difference Between Beowulf and Modern-Day Heroes
  • Does the Hero Decline in the Epic of Beowulf?
  • How Are the Hero Figures in Both “Beowulf” and “The 13th Warrior” Similar?
  • What Does the Story of Beowulf Teach Us?
  • How Does Beowulf Save People From the Monster Grendel in the Play “Beowulf”?
  • What Singles Out “Beowulf” Among All Other Works of Anglo-Saxon Poetry?
  • Does “Beowulf” Teach Us About Leadership?
  • What Are 5 Reasons Why We Read “Beowulf” Today?
  • How Does Beowulf Display Characteristics of a Hero?
  • What’s the Difference Between Beowulf and King Arthur?
  • How Do Gawain King Arthur and Beowulf Show Bravery?
  • What Traits Have Beowulf and Gilgamesh in Common?
  • How Did People Worship Heroes During the Anglo-Saxon Period as Portrayed in “Beowulf”?
  • Whether Beowulf Has the Qualities of an Epic Hero in the Epic Poem “Beowulf”?
  • How Does the Arthurian Known Represent a Characterization of Nordic in the Story of Beowulf?
  • Why Does “Beowulf” Begin and End With a Funeral?
  • How Does Beowulf Show Strength and Courage?
  • What Does “Beowulf” Reveal About Ideals of Heroism?
  • How Are the Honorable Men During Beowulf’s Time Different From the Modern Men?
  • Does “Beowulf” Relate to Our Lives Today?
  • How Was War Portrayed in “Beowulf”?
  • Why Is “Beowulf” Important to Teach?
  • How Do Beowulf’s Character Traits Reflect the Ideals of a Culture?
  • What Does the Story “Beowulf” Symbolize?
  • Does “Beowulf” Reflect the Values of His Society?
  • How Can We Compare Beowulf to a Modern-Day Hero of Our Time?

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StudyCorgi. (2022, June 5). 105 Beowulf Essay Topics. Retrieved from https://studycorgi.com/ideas/beowulf-essay-topics/

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StudyCorgi . "105 Beowulf Essay Topics." June 5, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/beowulf-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2022. "105 Beowulf Essay Topics." June 5, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/beowulf-essay-topics/.

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These essay examples and topics on Beowulf were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on January 5, 2024 .

80 Beowulf Essay Topics

Published by Denis on March 11, 2021 March 11, 2021

Beowulf is a poem about Beowulf, who is the nephew to the king of the Geats, Hygelac. Geats is located south of Sweden. It comes to Beowulf’s knowledge that there is a monster called Grendel that is terrorizing where also king Hrothgar dwells. Beowulf travels to Heorot, where the Danish king receives him. The monster, Grendel comes to Heorot and is slain by Beowulf, who cuts off his arm. His victory over the monster earns him praises.

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However, the attacks do not stop there as Grendel’s mother comes out to revenge her son. Once again, Beowulf has to face the monster.

The monster kills the king’s best counselor. Beowulf follows the monster to her lair, where he manages to kill her after almost being overpowered. He returns with the head of the monster and is given myriad rewards, ranging from lands, titles, and so on. Beowulf returns home and is made king after some time.

Fifty years into his reign, their kingdom is devastated by another monster. He goes ahead to fight it, but this time he is disappointed by his swords. With the help of his retainer Wiglaf, they kill the monster, but he suffers fatal wounds that he succumbs to.

The epic Old English poem on the hero Beowulf has spawned lots of entertainment content, including film and theater adaptations. But Beowulf has also attracted a lot of attention from writers interested in medieval literature. It is an exciting read and body of literature for exploration for all levels of education.

How to write an essay on Beowulf

The plot, characters, and stage of the story of Beowulf present varied openings for Beowulf essay topics. An obvious approach would be to study the Hero’s motivations and actions and those of the other characters in in-depth analyses. Other closely related topics that can be spun off this epic include comparative analysis with other mythical heroes e.g., in the Greek epics. Of course, a thorough understanding of the poem would be needed when writing about it.

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Suggested topics for a Beowulf essay

  • An Analysis of Supernatural Feats in the Epic of Beowulf
  • The Honors of Shild Shaving and Beowulf in the Tragedy Beowulf
  • Looking at Beowulf as a Modern-Day Role Model in the Play “Beowulf”
  • Anglo-Saxon Beliefs Portrayed in Beowulf’s Story
  • An Analysis of Beowulf Who Truly Obtained the Qualities of an Epic Hero
  • An Analysis of the Heroic Similarities of John F. Kennedy and Beowulf
  • The Admirable Characteristics of an Anglo-Saxon Hero
  • The Portrayal of the Beliefs of the Anglo-Saxon People in the Epic “Beowulf”
  • An Analysis of the Use of Symbolism in Beowulf
  • An Analysis of the Christian and Pagan Elements in Beowulf, an Anglo-Saxon Epic Poem
  • An Analysis of Beowulf, an Anglo-Saxon Epic Poem
  • Identifying Beowulf’s Real Enemy in Shakespeare’s “Beowulf”
  • An Analysis of the Story of Beowulf, an Anglo-Saxon Epic
  • The Comparison of Beowulf’s Character to Greek gods
  • An Analysis of the Symbolism in Beowulf, an Anglo-Saxon Epic
  • An Analysis and a Comparison of Beowulf and Shild Shaving
  • The Themes of Courage, Courage, and Generosity in the Epic Poem Beowulf
  • The Importance of Loyalty and Rewards Between the King and His Warriors in Beowulf
  • An Analysis of the demi-god Figure of Beowulf
  • The Effects of Pride in Beowulf’s Character
  • Living in the Dark and Suffering from Pain In the Play “Beowulf”
  • A Comparison of Beowulf and Batman as a Modern Day Hero
  • A Description of the Most Heroic Man of the Anglo-Saxon Times in Beowulf
  • Summary of Beowulf’s Journey to Heroism
  • An Analysis of Beowulf and Epic Questions in an Epic Poem
  • A Study of Beowulf’s and Sir Gawain’s Heroic Traits
  • An Analysis of the Anglo-Saxon Beliefs in the Epic Poem Beowulf
  • Analyzing the Beowulf, An Epic Hero of Epic Proportions
  • A Comparison between two Cultural Heroes – Beowulf and Gilgamesh
  • Comparing Beowulf in Today’s Movie or Novel Standards
  • A Look at the Anglo-Saxon Beliefs in the Epic Beowulf
  • An Analysis of Good and Evil in the Epic of Beowulf
  • Comprehensive Character Analysis of Beowulf as a Hero
  • A Comparison of the Battles of Beowulf
  • A Discussion About the Beowulf’s Fighting Motivation
  • The Use of the Conflict Between the Good and Evil Throughout Beowulf
  • An Analysis of the Topic of the Beowulf and Evil Grendel
  • A Summary of the Journey of the Epic Hero, Beowulf
  • An Analysis of the Epic Poem Beowulf and the Invincible Hero
  • An Analysis of Pride in Beowulf the Great English Poem
  • The Characteristics of Beowulf as an Unconventional and Traditional Character
  • The Trials and Triumphs of Beowulf as a Hero
  • An Analysis of the Acts of Beowulf
  • The Portrayal of Beowulf to Anglo-Saxon Culture in His Poem
  • The Theme of Death in the Poem Beowulf
  • Anglo-Saxon Ideal in the Story of Beowulf
  • An Essay on Old Testament Allusions in Beowulf
  • An Analysis of Grendel’s Life in “Beowulf”
  • An Analysis of the Monsters’ Behavior in Beowulf
  • A Short Summary of the Story Beowulf
  • Analysis of One of the Most Famous Old English Epic Poems: Beowulf
  • Themes of Good vs. Evil and a Tragic Hero in the Epic Poem Beowulf
  • Common Aspects in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and Beowulf: Lineage, Honor, Mysticism, and Love
  • A Literary Analysis of the Qualities of an Epic Hero in the Epic Poem Beowulf
  • An Analysis of the Value of Strength in the Epic of Beowulf
  • Beliefs of Anglo-Saxon People as Depicted in the Poem Beowulf
  • Symbolical Elements in the Epic Poem Beowulf
  • A Comparison of Beowulf and Achilles
  • Conflict Between Good and Evil in Beowulf
  • The Morality of the Epic Hero, Beowulf
  • The Pride of Certain Characters in “Beowulf”
  • A Literary Analysis of the Protagonist and a Hero in Beowulf
  • A Look at The Courage of Great Beowulf
  • Comparison and Contrast Paper: Beowulf Vs. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight

Some interesting evaluation essay topics to explore.

How to choose a topic for a Beowulf essay

When writing an essay on an epic, it could be directly based on the epic, e.g., analyzing the hero’s deeds or having a base on the epic, e.g., comparing it with another modern-day hero. The good thing is that there is a lot of literature on the epic already in place. You cannot rewrite the epic, so the best approach would be to improve the existing literature by providing more insights into the plot, characters, and the story’s setting.

Stuck in finding a Beowulf essay topic? Try searching using this  free essay title generator —the results will be amazing!

Writing on Beowulf essay topics is pretty much straightforward. Get a good understanding of the story and look at ways of exploring it from a fresh perspective. If you love epic stories, the Beowulf epic will always have something intriguing to write about.

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  4. Essay Question using Beowulf and Grendel by John Gardner by Mr L

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COMMENTS

  1. Essay Questions

    1. Discuss the significance of the heroic code of comitatus in Beowulf, considering specifically the actions of Beowulf as a young warrior, Wiglaf as a young warrior, and the cowardly retainers at the dragon fight. 2. Consider two of the following as symbols: Heorot, Grendel's claw, the cave, or the dragon's treasure-hoard. 3.

  2. Beowulf: Suggested Essay Topics

    1. What role does the mead-hall play in Anglo-Saxon warrior culture? What is the proper relationship between a lord and his warriors? What examples can you find throughout Beowulf? 2. What is the role of women in the heroic culture of Beowulf ? 3. How does treasure function in Beowulf?

  3. 75 Good Beowulf Essay Topics and Ideas

    Character Analyses Narrative Techniques and Literary Devices Themes and Philosophies Comparative Analyses Broader Perspectives In-depth Explorations Beowulf's Battles Creative Angles for Your Beowulf Essay Concluding Thoughts on Beowulf Essay Topics Tips for Choosing an Optimal Beowulf Essay Topic

  4. Beowulf: Sample A+ Essay

    Lines 2211-2515 Sample A+ Essay Previous Next What is the role of treasure in Beowulf? In our culture, preoccupation with material goods usually connotes shallowness, and the pursuit of riches is often seen as incompatible—or at least difficult to reconcile—with our moral convictions.

  5. Top 3 "Beowulf" Essay Topics

    Josh Wilmoth Updated: Nov 5, 2023 9:18 PM EST Should Beowulf have fought the dragon? This is just one of the many questions you can choose to answer in an essay about "Beowulf." By Friedrich-Johann-Justin-Bertuch [Public domain] Beowulf Essay Prompts Every year, my medieval history and literature students fall in love with Beowulf.

  6. Beowulf: Mini Essays

    By Section Mini Essays Previous Next How is Beowulf structured? How does this structure relate to the theme or themes of the work as a whole? Beowulf is loosely divided into three parts, each of which centers around Beowulf's fight with a particular monster: first Grendel, then Grendel's mother, then the dragon.

  7. 104 Beowulf Essay Topics & Examples

    Here are some Beowulf essay questions that will help you to master your paper: What are the key components of Beowulf as an epic poetry? Compare and contrast Beowulf to Homer's Odyssey or Iliad, or Aeneid by Virgil. Describe similarities like a long form poem, a heroiс figure, a presence of a supernatural being, etc.

  8. Beowulf Suggested Essay Topics

    Suggested Essay Topics. Lines 1-370 1. Discuss how the importance of lineage, as seen in Beowulf, has changed in modern culture. Cite specific examples of cases where lineage is still discussed ...

  9. Beowulf Essay Topics

    Are you a student or a teacher? Beowulf Essay Topics Explore our library of over 88,000 lessons These essay prompts will help your student (s) explore Beowulf's main themes and ideas....

  10. Beowulf Questions and Answers

    Start Free Trial Beowulf Questions and Answers What characteristics in Beowulf make Beowulf an epic hero? Kennings In Beowulf What causes Grendel to attack the mead-hall Herot in...

  11. Beowulf Essay Topics and Outlines

    by Wesley Matlock Released July 19, 2022 Literature subject 8 pages Purchase a Subscription Grade Levels Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12 undergraduate Excerpt Suggested Essay Topics: Lines...

  12. 55 Beowulf Essay Topics

    The plot? The setting? Or the theme? Once you have decided on a focus, you can start to narrow down your topic. For example, if you want to write about the characters in Beowulf, you could focus on a specific character, such as Beowulf himself, or you could compare and contrast two or more characters.

  13. Simplified Beowulf Essay Guide: Themes, Topics, and Examples

    Beowulf Essay Topics Guide. When asked to write an essay about Beowulf, it is worth noting that the essay is heroic and has changeable and universal topics. It is because this piece of literature draws convincing and new attention in the contemporary world. Perfect examples of essay topics include:

  14. Beowulf Essay Topics, Questions, & Examples

    🏆 Beowulf Essay Questions Is Beowulf a hero? What is the symbolism of Heorot? What role does Anglo-Saxon culture play in Beowulf? Is Beowulf an epic? What does Hrunting symbolize in Beowulf? Who is Hrothgar and what role does he play? How are kennings used in Beowulf? What are the most essential Biblical allusions in Beowulf?

  15. Beowulf Study Guide: Questions, Answers, Summary, & Essay Topics

    2 min Updated: October 4th, 2022 Print Beowulf Study Guide (No Ratings Yet) Beowulf is the most ancient text in Old English that has been preserved till nowadays. Scientists still wrestle over many questions related to the manuscript. Did a single author write it? Why was the next unnamed? What is its literary value?

  16. Beowulf Sample Essay Outlines

    Topic #1 Beowulf, in his quest for glory, is reminiscent of a specific group of modern young executives who place their careers above all other aspects of their lives. How can this be validated...

  17. Beowulf

    Table of Contents Top Questions What is Beowulf? Where does Beowulf take place? Who was Beowulf written by? What does Beowulf present to Hrothgar? Was Beowulf real? Beowulf Beowulf preparing to cut off the head of the monster Grendel, illustration from Hero-Myths & Legends of the British Race, 1910.

  18. Beowulf: Study Guide

    Mastery Quizzes Flashcards Overview Beowulf, an epic poem of unknown authorship, was likely composed between the 8th and 11th centuries. It stands as a cornerstone of Anglo-Saxon literature, embodying the heroic spirit of the time.

  19. Free Beowulf Essays and Research Papers on GradesFixer

    1 Beowulf: Heroic Feats and Lasting Legacy 1 page / 467 words Beowulf, the renowned hero of the Anglo-Saxon epic poem, has long been celebrated for his extraordinary feats of valor and his unwavering commitment to protecting his people. His story serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of heroism and the timeless values embodied by... Beowulf

  20. Beowulf: Questions & Answers

    First, he fights Grendel when he attacks the hall of Heorot. After defeating the monster, Grendel's mother attacks the hall, causing Beowulf and his band of warriors to hunt her down; he ultimately kills her in her lake lair. Fifty years later, during which Beowulf has ruled nobly, a treasure-guarding dragon is awakened.

  21. 105 Beowulf Essay Topics & Research Titles at StudyCorgi

    This paper aims to discuss the female characters' prominent position in the poems "Beowulf," "Inferno," and "The Nun's Priest's Tale.". The three poems, "Beowulf", "The Nun's Priest Tale", and "The Wife of Bath Tale", have some religious twists. This paper shows how spirituality is a guide when applied with reason.

  22. 80 Beowulf Essay Topics

    80 Beowulf Essay Topics. Beowulf is a poem about Beowulf, who is the nephew to the king of the Geats, Hygelac. Geats is located south of Sweden. It comes to Beowulf's knowledge that there is a monster called Grendel that is terrorizing where also king Hrothgar dwells. Beowulf travels to Heorot, where the Danish king receives him.