Question

1. Based on the legends and historical figures, when is Beowulf believed to be written?

2. Why did the poem need to be translated if it was written in English?

3. Beowulf's battle with Grendel is one of how many battles fought in this poem?

4. Who are the traveling minstrels who passed poems on in the oral tradition?

5. When was Beowulf finally written down and where is the single surviving manuscript?

6. How was the poem most likely performed?

7. What are three things an Anglo-Saxon could learn from listening to Beowulf?

Answer 1

Beowulf was written between the 8th and 11th centuries, required translation due to being in Old English, features three battles, and was likely performed with spoken word and rhythm. It taught Anglo-Saxons about heroism, societal values, and legacy.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding Beowulf and Its Context

Beowulf is believed to be written between the 8th and the early 11th century, based on historical figures and legends. It was written in Old English, which is quite different from the English language we use today, hence the need for translation. The poem narrates three battles fought by Beowulf, including the famous battle against Grendel.

Traveling minstrels, known as scops, were responsible for passing down poems like Beowulf in the oral tradition. The epic was eventually written down somewhere around the 10th or 11th century, with the single surviving manuscript now housed in the British Library.

The performance of Beowulf likely involved a storyteller reciting the poem with a combination of spoken word, rhythm, and possibly music. Anglo-Saxons listening to Beowulf would learn about heroism, societal values, and the importance of legacy. These were the lessons one could derive amidst the Germanic peoples' culture that celebrated warriors facing their fate.

Answer 2

1. Beowulf is believed to be written between the 8th and 11th centuries.
2. The poem needed to be translated as it was originally written in Old English rather than modern English.
3. Beowulf's battle with Grendel is one of three battles fought in this poem.
4. The traveling minstrels who passed poems on in the oral tradition are known as scops.
5. Beowulf was finally written down around the 10th century and the single surviving manuscript is held at the British Library.
6. Beowulf was most likely performed for audiences by multiple singers accompanying each other with a harp.
7. Three things an Anglo-Saxon could learn from listening to Beowulf are courage, loyalty, and generosity.