beowulf essay topic ideas

75 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.

105 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!

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.

Heroism of Beowulf and Sir Gawain Comparison
Medieval Imagination: Beowulf vs. Russian Mythos
Legends of British Literature: Beowulf and Macbeth
The Role and Significance of Women in “Beowulf”
Beowulf: Comparing the Movie and the Book
The Rise of Western Civilization in Beowulf: Critical Analysis
Beowulf as a Tragic Hero of the Old English Warrior Culture
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
Themes in Beowulf: Annotated Bibliography Bravery – Beowulf is the most famous poem among the works of the Old English literature. It is the epic creation telling the readers about the strongest and the bravest of the English warriors of all times.
“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.
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.
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” & “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.
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” and “The Lord of the Rings” Literary Comparison These two literary works demonstrate the way people, as well as people’s values, have changed throughout centuries. Thus, the protagonists of the two works start a quest to defeat the evil.
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.
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”.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“Beowulf”: Cultural Elements of the Anglo-Saxon Piece of Literature The image of Beowulf infuses the feeling of something exotic and fantastic and his deeds are appraised as insane.
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.
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.
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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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 .

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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Discussion Questions

There are plenty of terrifying monsters in the history of literature, but not all that many of them have mothers. Why do you think Grendel’s mother might figure so importantly in this poem? How does she fit into the wider world of Beowulf ?

Despite its records of superhuman heroics, Beowulf is deeply concerned with mortal weakness. Why might the poem juxtapose these two aspects of humanity?

The meaning of good kingship is a major question in Beowulf . What, according to the poem, makes a good leader? What hampers good leadership? Why does leadership matter?

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122 Beowulf Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

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122 Beowulf Essay Topic Ideas & Examples: Exploring the Epic Tale

Beowulf is a renowned epic poem that has captivated readers for centuries. It tells the thrilling story of a hero, Beowulf, who battles fearsome monsters to protect his people. As a student, you may be assigned an essay on Beowulf to analyze various aspects of the poem. To help you get started, here are 122 Beowulf essay topic ideas and examples that can inspire your writing.

Discuss the significance of the mead-hall in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of heroism in Beowulf.

Analyze the role of women in Beowulf.

Examine the symbolism of Grendel in the poem.

Compare and contrast Beowulf and Grendel.

Discuss the theme of fate in Beowulf.

Analyze the characteristics of an epic hero in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of loyalty in Beowulf.

Discuss the role of religion in Beowulf.

Analyze the influence of Christian and pagan elements in the poem.

Explore the motif of revenge in Beowulf.

Discuss the significance of the dragon in Beowulf.

Analyze the role of kingship in Beowulf.

Compare and contrast Beowulf and Wiglaf.

Discuss the theme of leadership in Beowulf.

Analyze the role of treasure and wealth in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of monsters in Beowulf.

Discuss the relationship between Beowulf and his men.

Analyze the role of women as peace-weavers in Beowulf.

Compare and contrast the portrayal of Beowulf in the poem and the movie adaptation.

Discuss the theme of exile in Beowulf.

Analyze the role of fate in the battles fought by Beowulf.

Explore the theme of reputation in Beowulf.

Discuss the importance of kinship in Beowulf.

Analyze the significance of the funeral rites in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of good versus evil in Beowulf.

Discuss the concept of heroism in Anglo-Saxon society as depicted in Beowulf.

Analyze the role of the scop in Beowulf.

Explore the motif of the journey in Beowulf.

Discuss the role of storytelling in Beowulf.

Analyze the influence of Norse mythology in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of mortality in Beowulf.

Discuss the portrayal of masculinity in Beowulf.

Analyze the role of fate in Beowulf's downfall.

Explore the theme of honor in Beowulf.

Discuss the influence of the oral tradition on Beowulf.

Analyze the role of weapons and armor in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of wisdom in Beowulf.

Discuss the concept of heroism in modern society using examples from Beowulf.

Analyze the role of the supernatural in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of vengeance in Beowulf.

Discuss the role of the mead-hall as a symbol of community in Beowulf.

Analyze the portrayal of the warrior code in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of loyalty to the king in Beowulf.

Discuss the significance of the sea in Beowulf.

Analyze the portrayal of the Danes and the Geats in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of identity in Beowulf.

Discuss the role of fate in Beowulf's encounters with Grendel's mother.

Analyze the role of honor in Beowulf's battles.

Explore the theme of bravery in Beowulf.

Discuss the role of the supernatural in Beowulf's victory over Grendel.

Analyze the portrayal of the afterlife in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of lineage in Beowulf.

Discuss the role of the narrator in Beowulf.

Analyze the significance of treasure as a symbol of power in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of wisdom in Beowulf's decision-making.

Discuss the portrayal of kingship in Beowulf.

Analyze the importance of boasting in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of honor in Beowulf's battles.

Discuss the role of fate in Beowulf's encounters with the dragon.

Analyze the portrayal of the Danish court in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of the warrior code in Beowulf.

Discuss the significance of the mead-hall as a place of celebration in Beowulf.

Analyze the role of the sea as a symbol of danger in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of hospitality in Beowulf.

Discuss the portrayal of masculinity in Beowulf's society.

Analyze the significance of the dragon's treasure in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of sacrifice in Beowulf.

Discuss the role of fate in Beowulf's decision to fight Grendel.

Analyze the portrayal of women in Beowulf's society.

Explore the theme of loyalty to one's lord in Beowulf.

Discuss the significance of the mead-hall as a symbol of civilization in Beowulf.

Analyze the portrayal of the Geats in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of fame in Beowulf.

Discuss the role of fate in Beowulf's final battle.

Analyze the importance of the feast in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of honor in Beowulf's encounters with Grendel's mother.

Discuss the significance of the mead-hall as a place of protection in Beowulf.

Analyze the role of the sea as a symbol of the unknown in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of hospitality in Beowulf's society.

Discuss the portrayal of heroism in Beowulf's battles.

Analyze the significance of the dragon's death in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of loyalty to one's kin in Beowulf.

Discuss the role of fate in Beowulf's decision to fight the dragon.

Analyze the portrayal of women as peace-weavers in Beowulf's society.

Explore the theme of honor in Beowulf's encounters with the dragon.

Discuss the significance of the mead-hall as a place of community in Beowulf.

Analyze the role of the sea as a symbol of isolation in Beowulf.

Discuss the portrayal of heroism in Beowulf's encounters with Grendel's mother.

Analyze the significance of the mead-hall as a symbol of wealth in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of honor in Beowulf's final battle.

Discuss the role of fate in Beowulf's decision to fight Grendel's mother.

Explore the theme of loyalty to one's lord in Beowulf's encounters with the dragon.

Discuss the significance of the mead-hall as a place of camaraderie in Beowulf.

Analyze the role of the sea as a symbol of the supernatural in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of hospitality in Beowulf's encounters with Grendel.

Discuss the portrayal of heroism in Beowulf's battles with the dragon.

Analyze the significance of the mead-hall as a symbol of power in Beowulf.

Explore the theme of honor in Beowulf's battles with Grendel's mother.

These essay topic ideas and examples provide you with a wide range of options to explore the fascinating world of Beowulf. Whether you focus on themes, characters, symbolism, or the historical context of the poem, there are countless avenues for analysis. Remember to support your arguments with evidence from the text and to enjoy the process of delving into this epic tale.

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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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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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Literature Notes
Major Themes in Beowulf
Poem Summary
About Beowulf
Character List
Summary and Analysis
Lines 1-193
Lines 194-606
Lines 607-836
Lines 837-1062
Lines 1063-1250
Lines 1251-1491
Lines 1492-1650
Lines 1651-1887
Lines 1888-2199
Lines 2200-2400
Lines 2401-2630
Lines 2631-2820
Lines 2821-3182
Character Analysis
Grendel's Mother
Character Map
The Beowulf Poet
The Beowulf Manuscript
Critical Essays
Major Symbols in Beowulf
Famous Quotes from Beowulf
Film Versions of Beowulf
Full Glossary for Beowulf
Essay Questions
Practice Projects
Cite this Literature Note

Critical Essays Major Themes in Beowulf

A theme in a literary work is a recurring, unifying subject or idea, a motif that allows us to understand more deeply the character and their world. In Beowulf, the major themes reflect the values and the motivations of the characters.

One of the central themes of Beowulf, embodied by its title character, is loyalty. At every step of his career, loyalty is Beowulf's guiding virtue.

Beowulf comes to the assistance of the Danes (Scyldings) for complicated reasons. Certainly he is interested in increasing his reputation and gaining honor and payment for his own king back in Geatland. However, we soon learn that a major motivation is a family debt that Beowulf owes to Hrothgar. The young Geat is devoted to the old king because Hrothgar came to the assistance of Beowulf's father, Ecgtheow, years before. Now deceased, Ecgtheow had killed a leader of another tribe in a blood feud. When the tribe sought vengeance, Hrothgar, then a young king, sheltered Beowulf's father and settled the feud by paying tribute (wergild) in the form of "fine old treasures" (472) to Ecgtheow's enemies. Hrothgar even remembers Beowulf as a child. The tie between the families goes back many years, and Beowulf is proud to be able to lend his loyal services to Hrothgar.

When the hero returns to Geatland, he continues his loyalty to his uncle and king, Hygelac, risking his life even when the tactics of the ruler are not the best. After Hygelac is killed in an ill-advised raid on Frisia, Beowulf makes a heroic escape (2359 ff.) back to Geatland. Beowulf could become king then but is more loyal than ambitious. Queen Hygd offers Beowulf the throne after her husband dies, thinking that her young son (Heardred) is unable to protect the kingdom; Beowulf refuses and serves the young king faithfully. After Heardred is killed, Beowulf does become king and rules with honor and fidelity to his office and his people for 50 years. In his final test, the burden of loyalty will rest on other, younger shoulders.

Preparing for his last battle, with the fiery dragon, Beowulf puts his trust in 11 of his finest men, retainers who have vowed to fight to the death for him. Although the now elderly king insists on taking on the dragon alone, he brings along the 11 in case he needs them. When it is apparent that Beowulf is losing the battle to the dragon, however, all but one of his men run and hide in the woods. Only Wiglaf, an inexperienced thane who has great respect for his king, remains loyal. Wiglaf calls to the others in vain. Realizing that they will be no help and that his king is about to be killed, he stands beside the old man to fight to the death — theirs or the dragon's. For Beowulf, sadly, it is the end. Although he and Wiglaf kill the dragon, the king dies. As he dies, Beowulf passes the kingdom on to the brave and loyal Wiglaf.

Another motivating factor for Beowulf — and a central theme in the epic — is reputation. From the beginning, Beowulf is rightly concerned about how the rest of the world will see him. He introduces himself to the Scyldings by citing achievements that gained honor for him and his king. When a drunken Unferth verbally assaults Beowulf at the first banquet, at issue is the hero's reputation. Unferth's slur is the worst kind of insult for Beowulf because his reputation is his most valuable possession. Reputation is also the single quality that endures after death, his one key to immortality. That's why Beowulf later leaves the gold in the cave beneath the mere, after defeating the mother, preferring to return with Grendel's head and the magic sword's hilt rather than treasure. He has and continues to amass treasures; his intent now is in building his fame.

Unferth's slur accuses Beowulf of foolishly engaging in a seven-day swimming contest on the open sea, as a youth, and losing. If Beowulf can't win a match like that, Unferth asserts, he surely can't defeat Grendel. Beowulf defends his reputation with such grace and persuasion that he wins the confidence of King Hrothgar and the rest of the Danes. He points out that he swam with Breca for five nights, not wanting to abandon the weaker boy. Rough seas then drove them apart, and Beowulf had to kill nine sea monsters before going ashore in the morning. His reputation intact, Beowulf prepares to meet Grendel and further enhance his fame.

As he discusses Beowulf's later years, the poet lists the virtues (2177 ff.) leading to the great man's fine reputation. Beowulf is courageous and famous for his performance in battle but equally well known for his good deeds. Although aggressive in war, Beowulf has "no savage mind" (2180) and never kills his comrades when drinking, an important quality in the heroic world of the mead-hall. Beowulf respects the gifts of strength and leadership that he possesses.

As he prepares to meet the dragon, near the end of the poem, now King Beowulf again considers his reputation. He insists on facing the dragon alone despite the fact that his death will leave his people in jeopardy. Hrothgar's Sermon warned Beowulf of the dangers of pride, and some critics have accused the great warrior of excessive pride (hubris) in the defense of his reputation. A more considerate judgment might be that Beowulf is an old man with little time left and deserves the right to die as a warrior. The final words of the poem, stating that Beowulf was "most eager for fame' (3182), might be best understood by a modern audience by remembering that, in Beowulf's world, fame is synonymous with reputation.

Generosity and Hospitality

The Scyldings' King Hrothgar and Queen Wealhtheow embody the themes of generosity and hospitality. The code of the comitatus is at the heart of the Beowulf epic. In this system, the king or feudal lord provides land, weapons, and a share of treasure to his warriors (called thanes or retainers) in return for their support of the leader in battle. The leader's generosity is one of his highest qualities. There are more than 30 different terms for "king" in the poem, and many of them have to do with this role as provider. He is the "ring-giver' (35) or the "treasure-giver" (607); his seat of power is the "gift-throne" (168).

When booty is seized from an enemy in battle, everything goes to the king. He then allots treasure to each warrior according to the man's achievements as a soldier. When Beowulf defeats Grendel and Grendel's mother, he expects and receives great riches as his reward, including a golden banner, helmet, and mail-shirt, as well as a jeweled sword, magnificent horses with golden trappings that hang to the ground, a gem-studded saddle, and a golden collar. Such generosity is emblematic of Hrothgar's character. In turn, Beowulf will present these treasures to his own king, Hygelac, who will then honor Beowulf with appropriate gifts. Propriety/generosity is, thus, a crucial part of the political, military, social, and economic structure of the culture.

Wealhtheow shares in the gift giving and is the perfect hostess. When she serves mead in Heorot, it is an act of propriety and diplomacy, attending first to her king and then to various guests, paying special attention to Beowulf. An improper queen would be one like Modthrytho (1931 ff.) who was so inhospitable as to have her own warriors executed for the offense of merely looking into her eyes.

Hospitality is such an established part of the culture that the poet feels free to refer to it with casual humor. When Beowulf reports to Hrothgar on his victory over Grendel (957 ff.), he ironically speaks in terms of hospitality. He tried, he says, to "welcome my enemy" (969) with a firm handshake but was disappointed when he received only a "visitor's token" (971), Grendel's giant claw, "that dear [meaning 'precious'] gift" (973), a kind of macabre gratuity for services rendered. Beowulf had, ironically speaking, tried to be the perfect host; but he wanted the entire ogre body as his tip . Grendel left only his claw as a cheap compensation.

Despite Unferth's jealous rant at the first banquet, the most serious embodiment of envy in the poem is Grendel. The ogre who has menaced Hrothgar's people for 12 years is envious of the Danes because he can never share in mankind's hope or joy. The monster's motivation is one of the few undeniably Christian influences in the epic. Grendel is a descendant of Cain, the biblical son of Adam and Eve who killed his brother Abel out of jealousy (Genesis 4). The legend is that the monsters of the earth are Cain's descendants and eternally damned. Grendel resents men because God blesses them but will never bless him. The bright lights and sounds of joy emanating from Hrothgar's magnificent mead-hall, Heorot, especially annoy the ogre.

The scop 's "Song of Creation" angers Grendel because it reminds him of the light and hope of God's creation and the loss he suffers because of Cain's sin. Grendel stomps up from the mere to devour Danes and rule nightly over Heorot as a form of revenge stemming from this envy.

Revenge serves as a motivating factor for several characters throughout the poem, initially stirring Grendel and his mother. Grendel seeks revenge upon mankind for the heritage that he has been dealt. He delights in raiding Heorot because it is the symbol of everything that he detests about men: their success, joy, glory, and favor in the eyes of God. Grendel's mother's revenge is more specific. She attacks Heorot because someone there killed her son. Although she is smaller and less powerful than Grendel, she is motivated by a mother's fury. When Beowulf goes after her in the mere, she has the added advantage of fighting him in her own territory. As she drags him into her cave beneath the lake, her revenge peaks because this is the very man who killed her son. Only Beowulf's amazing abilities as a warrior and the intervention of God or magic can defeat her.

Revenge also motivates the many feuds that the poet refers to and is a way of life — and death — for the Germanic tribes. Old enmities die hard and often disrupt attempts at peace, as the poet recognizes. Upon his return to Geatland, Beowulf (2020 ff.) speculates about a feud between Hrothgar's Scyldings and the Heathobards, a tribe in southern Denmark with whom Hrothgar hopes to make peace through the marriage of his daughter. Beowulf is skeptical, envisioning a renewal of hostilities. In fact, the Heathobards do later burn Heorot in events not covered by the poem but probably familiar to its audience. Another example of revenge overcoming peace occurs in the Finnsburh section (1068-1159).

Beowulf's final battle is the result of vengeance. A dangerous fire-dragon seeks revenge because a fugitive slave has stolen a valuable cup from the monster's treasure-hoard. His raids across the countryside include the burning of Beowulf's home. Beowulf then seeks his own revenge by going after the dragon.

Previous The Beowulf Manuscript

Next Major Symbols in Beowulf

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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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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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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Looking for Beowulf summary and analysis? Need to quickly figure out the intricacies of the poem’s plot? You’re in the right place! In the article prepared by our experts, you’ll find Beowulf plot overview, an illustrated timeline, as well as chapter summaries of the classic tale. 📊 Beowulf Plot Overview ...

Is Beowulf a hero? ️Where is he from? How he dies? Find all the answers in this article on Beowulf characters prepared by Custom-Writing.org experts. Grendel, Hrothgar, Grendel’s mother, Unferth, and others are described below. There is also a Beowulf character map that presents the main characters and their connections. ...

The themes and motifs of the poem indicate which models of behavior were favored and criticized in the Middle Ages. Generosity, loyalty, strength, heroism, and courage made up a respected personality. On the contrary, envy, greed, betrayal, and cowardice characterized a negative character. The unknown author looks for these motifs...

Beowulf is the first text written in Old English. The described events date back to the 6th century, but the manuscript appeared between the 8th and 11th century AD. It explains why the poem needs a translation to Modern English for an unprepared reader to understand it. Moreover, some literary...

This epic poem is the oldest known written artifact in Old English. It reveals the life, traditions, and culture of the people who lived a millennium ago. At the same time, Beowulf presents such archetypes as loyalty, courage, generosity, hospitality, honor, and heroism. We can relate to these moral categories...

Beowulf is an epic poem by an unknown author. It was written between the 8th and 11th centuries, but the plot describes the events that date back to 500 AD. The original text is in Old English, so the general public studies the poem in a translation. This selection by...

What Is the Reason for the Tragic End of the Hero Beowulf?

Beowulf was too arrogant to admit he was too old for a hero’s role in the battle with the dragon. He wanted to achieve another feat and receive fame. He felt his death was near, but it did not stop him. After all, dying in a battle was the best...

Which Comparison of Beowulf and Grendel Is Most Accurate?

The poem Beowulf and the novel Grendel have a similar plot. Both literary works characterize Grendel in the same way, with minor differences. In the poem, he is an angry man-eating creature with primitive human traits. In the novel, he is lonely and miserable. His inner world is emotionally complicated....

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...

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...

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...

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....

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...

Beowulf came to fight the dragon with eleven warriors. Ten of them betrayed him in fear, but Wiglaf stayed. The two of them opposed the fire-breathing creature. When Beowulf’s sword broke, Wiglaf stabbed the dragon in its stomach. It gave the hero time to take out his knife, which he...

Where Was Beowulf When Grendel Burst into the Hall?

Grendel, the first monster that appears in the poem, came to Heorot by night. At that moment, Beowulf pretended he was asleep. Here the hero played the role of a sleeping monster whose lair was disturbed. He can defeat a monster only by acting like a monster. Grendel and his...

Why Does Hrothgar Ask Beowulf to Battle Grendel’s Mother?

Grendel’s mother killed Aeschere, Hrothgar’s favorite thane. This loss was too personal to leave it unrevenged. He asked Beowulf to battle Grendel’s mother to bring an end to the monstrous breed. Besides, the hero was the only person Hrothgar believed was strong enough for the task. The next night after...

Beowulf takes place in Scandinavia around the 6th century AD. The Geats and the Scyldings (or Danes) were real tribal groups. They lived on the territory of modern southern Sweden and Denmark, respectively. We may suppose that Beowulf crossed the Baltic Sea. Still, it is impossible to define the exact...

Beowulf is one of the first epic heroes that can be found in ancient literature. His brave and noble character helps him defeat evil monsters that killed the Danes and Geats. Beowulf is strong and loyal to his kings. He does everything possible to improve the life of the people...

What Is the Outcome of Beowulf’s Battle with Grendel?

The battle with Grendel finishes when Beowulf tears off his arm, and the monster runs away to die in the swamps. But Grendel’s mother was driven by vengeance. By night, she penetrated Heorot. She took away Hrothgar’s best advisor and Grendel’s hand. Later Beowulf found the advisor’s head near the...

Who Is the Protagonist in the Battle with the Dragon?

In the battle with the dragon, Beowulf acts as a protagonist. He is the character with whom readers identify themselves. The dragon is the antagonist. It opposes Beowulf and kills him. A protagonist and an antagonist are antonyms. These opposing forces create a conflict in a story and move the...

How Can the Reader Tell That Beowulf Is an Epic Poem?

Traditionally, epic literature is formed as a long and narrative poem. It also has such literary devices as kennings and rich imagery. Epic poems do not have a rhyme in the sense of modern poetry. Instead, their unique form is achieved by alliteration and rhythm. An indispensable criterion is the...

Unferth is one of the warriors under Hrothgar’s rule. Unferth questioned Beowulf’s ability to defeat Grendel because once Beowulf failed in a swimming competition. Unferth was jealous of the hero’s strength, bravery, and the way the king accepted him. This feeling highlights the difference between these two characters. When Beowulf...

When Hygelac died, Queen Hygd offered Beowulf to take the throne as Heardred, her son, was too young to rule the Geats. Beowulf refused but promised to serve the young king till his dying day. But Heardred was killed in a battle. Then Beowulf became the King of the Geats...

In What Way Does Beowulf’s Sword Fail Him?

Unferth gave Hrunting to Beowulf as an infallible legendary sword that survived many battles. But when Beowulf fought Grendel’s mother, his sword could not penetrate her armored skin. It even did not scratch her. For this reason, Beowulf had to put aside this weapon and use the giant sword from...

Beowulf comes to help Hrothgar because the king helped Beowulf’s father once a long time ago. The heroic code dictated Beowulf to be loyal to the benefactors of his family. He had to repay for the good deed. Moreover, Beowulf strived for fame, and killing Grendel would bring him glory....

Describe the Setting Where Beowulf Fights Grendel’s Mother

Beowulf fights Grendel’s mother in her deep underwater lair. It is located in a building with a high arch. An ancient sword made by giants hangs on the wall as if waiting for Beowulf to use it. All of these objects and details bear symbolic meaning. Many epic heroes had...

What Was the Name of the Hall in Which Beowulf and Grendel Battled?

Heorot is a mead-hall and a critical location in Beowulf. The hall is situated in Denmark. It serves as a seat of rule for Hrothgar, a legendary Danish king. He built the hall to celebrate victories and protect his people from any invaders. So, the attack on Heorot was the...

The heroic code required equal terms in a battle for warriors. Beowulf knew that Grendel’s only weapon was his hands. For this reason, the warrior took off his armor and put away his sword. He caught Grendel by his hand and tore it off. The monster died from this mortal...

Beowulf killed Grendel’s mother using a sword he found in her cave. It was an ancient sword forged by giants, Cain’s descendants, like Grendel and his mother. When Beowulf killed the mother and decapitated Grendel, the sword melted away because of the mother’s poisonous blood. In that battle, Beowulf went...

What Was Unusual about the Way Beowulf Fought Grendel?

When the night came, and Beowulf was getting ready for the battle, he took off all of his armor. He also put away the sword to fight Grendel barehanded. He motivated it by the fact that the monster was unarmed, so that they would be equal. Besides, Beowulf relied on...

Which Plot Element Features the Conflicts and Challenges Encountered by Characters in Beowulf?

Rising action features the conflicts and challenges of the characters in a fictional plot. The story escalates when all the characters start experiencing various negative things. In Beowulf, rising action takes place between Grendel’s attack on the mead-hall and Beowulf’s battle with Grendel’s mother. The latter marks the climax of...

Which Words Describe the Relationship between Hrothgar and Beowulf?

Hrothgar plays a father figure in Beowulf’s life, and their relationship is full of mutual respect and loyalty. These two words represent the message the author wanted to convey by describing these two characters’ communication. In the end, Beowulf becomes a wise king, just as Hrothgar was. The heroic code...

Who is Beowulf a Real Person

This essay about the historical and mythological elements of the character Beowulf examines whether he was a real person or a literary invention. It explores the origins of the “Beowulf” poem, its setting in Scandinavia, and its alignment with historical figures found in Old Norse sagas. The essay discusses the absence of concrete archaeological evidence supporting Beowulf’s existence, suggesting that he is likely a fictional creation. It also considers the poem’s role as a cultural artifact that blends folk tales and historical anecdotes, emphasizing its moral and entertainment purposes in the context of its time. The transition of the Scandinavian region to Christianity during the composition of the poem and its influence on the narrative are analyzed, proposing that Beowulf embodies an ideal hero for a society experiencing significant cultural shifts. The essay concludes that Beowulf is best regarded not as a historical figure but as a symbolic hero crafted to address societal changes and moral values of his time.

How it works

The character Beowulf, the great hero of the Geatish people who features in the Old English epic poem named after him, stands as a monumental figure in literature. Spanning over 3,000 lines, the “Beowulf” poem is a rich tapestry of bravery, morality, and monstrosity that has captured the imaginations of scholars and readers alike for centuries. One of the lingering questions that enthusiasts and academics continue to debate is whether Beowulf was a real person or purely a creation of literary invention.

This discussion delves into the heart of this mystery by examining historical records, literary analysis, and the social context of the time when the poem might have been written.

Beowulf’s story, set in Scandinavia, narrates the life and battles of Beowulf, primarily against three foes – Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and a dragon. While the supernatural elements of these battles are clearly the product of myth-making, the settings and some characters mentioned alongside Beowulf are not entirely detached from historical contexts. For instance, the Danish kings mentioned in the poem align with characters found in other Old Norse sagas and chronicles which do have historical bases. This blending of fact and fiction prompts a deeper investigation into the poem’s origins.

The first angle to consider is the archaeological and historical evidence, or lack thereof, surrounding Beowulf himself. Unlike figures such as King Arthur, who also inhabits that shadowy territory between myth and history, there is no concrete archaeological proof that Beowulf ever existed. Historical records from the time period when Beowulf was purported to live – around the 5th to the early 6th centuries – are sparse. The Geats, the tribe Beowulf belongs to in the poem, were indeed a real people residing in what is now modern-day Sweden. However, their historical record does not conclusively mention a warrior whose life fully corresponds to that of Beowulf.

Literarily, “Beowulf” is often considered not just a work of fiction, but a cultural artifact that amalgamates various folk tales and historical anecdotes passed down through oral tradition before finally being transcribed in the form it is known today, sometime between the 8th and the early 11th century. The poet, who remains anonymous, may have chosen to enhance the qualities of Beowulf to embody the ideal hero – brave, morally upright, and ultimately sacrificial. These traits, amplified to a superhuman level, are typical in epic poetry which seeks to entertain as much as it aims to offer moral guidance.

Furthermore, the sociopolitical landscape during the poem’s transcription played a significant role. By the time “Beowulf” was written down, Christianity had begun to take root in Scandinavian lands. The Christian elements in the poem, such as the frequent references to God’s will and the depiction of Beowulf’s battles as fights against devil-spawn, suggest a merging of Christian values with traditional heroic codes of the Norse pagans. This fusion points to a narrative purpose beyond simply recording historical events – it was also about creating a moral framework that resonated with the newly Christianized audience.

In conclusion, while it is tempting to parse out historical truths from the literary cloth of “Beowulf,” the lack of definitive evidence and the poem’s heavily mythologized narrative lean towards Beowulf being a fictional construct rather than a historical figure. His portrayal likely served multiple purposes: entertaining audiences with feats of extraordinary heroism, instilling moral lessons aligned with both pagan and Christian values, and preserving a memory of a people – the Geats – who might otherwise have faded from historical memory. As such, Beowulf should best be appreciated not as a historical figure but as a hero of a narrative crafted to speak to the anxieties and aspirations of a society in flux.

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Beowulf Essay Examples

"beowulf": plot summary and analysis.

The epic poem "Beowulf" is a timeless classic of English literature that has captivated readers for centuries. It tells the story of the hero Beowulf, his battles with supernatural monsters, and his enduring legacy. In this essay, we will provide a comprehensive summary and analysis...

Beowulf Character Analysis

In this essay, we research the theme 'Beowulf character analysis'. Beowulf is an old English historical ballad. It is one of Old English writing's most important works. The date of arrangement causes confusion among researchers; the main possible dating relates to the original copy, which...

Analysis of 'Beowulf' as Being a Hero

This is Beowulf essay about being a hero where this poem and the main character is discussed. Beowulf is an epic poem that originated between the 8th and 11th centuries by the Anglo-Saxons. It was passed on through word of mouth, but eventually was written...

Beowulf': Introduction and the Review of the Poem

The epic poem, “Beowulf,” follows the protagonist and heroic figure Beowulf as he answers a call for help from the King of the village, King Hrothgar. The village was attacked several times by a “monster” by the name of Grendel. Beowulf brought some of his...

Exploring Anglo-saxon Values in Beowulf

The epic poem Beowulf serves as a window into the world of the Anglo-Saxons and their deeply ingrained values. This essay examines the portrayal of Anglo-Saxon values in Beowulf, shedding light on the cultural ideals, heroic code, and societal norms that are interwoven throughout the...

Beowulf: Unveiling the Epic Hero's Journey Towards Evil Creatures

'That demon, that fiend”, - these words are used to describe the furious, the truly evil entity, Grendel. Only one pure epic hero with strength and confidence is able to defeat this evil creature from the depths of hell that was placed on earth. That...

Grendel's Point of View: Unveiling a Literary Mind

In the epic poem "Beowulf," Grendel is often cast as a fearsome and monstrous antagonist. However, delving into the narrative from Grendel's point of view, we gain a fascinating window into his psyche and motivations. By exploring Grendel's perspective, we can gain a deeper understanding...

Beowulf: an Epic Hero's Journey

The legendary tale of Beowulf has captivated audiences for centuries, and at its heart lies the quintessential representation of an epic hero. This essay explores the attributes that define Beowulf as an epic hero, examining his heroic qualities, his valiant deeds, the cultural significance of...

Paising the Heroic Code in Beowulf's Poem

Beowulf is an epic poem that was written many years ago and is still praised in today's times. A lot of this poem is written around the heroic code, and it praises it. It speaks highly of the importance of strength, courage, and loyalty that...

Epic Journey with Beowulf

In modern-day movies and novels, the hero captures the audience's attention as they take on an epic journey. In literature, an epic poem is described as a long narrative poem outlining the heroic events taken by a character of high status. Society obsesses over the...

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Symbolism and Motifs in Beowulf

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105 Beowulf Essay Topics

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Part 1: How to Start Your Beowulf Essay

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Beowulf Essay Topics About Loyalty

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Beowulf Essay Examples

Beowulf Character Analysis

Analysis of 'Beowulf' as Being a Hero

Beowulf': Introduction and the Review of the Poem

Exploring Anglo-saxon Values in Beowulf

Beowulf: Unveiling the Epic Hero's Journey Towards Evil Creatures

Grendel's Point of View: Unveiling a Literary Mind

Beowulf: an Epic Hero's Journey

Paising the Heroic Code in Beowulf's Poem

Epic Journey with Beowulf