Class Notes 10/28/08

Today in class we had another Beowulf Review session.

Quote #3- The AS life and culture of quote #3 includes being known for your ancestory, the AS belief in demons, Christian/Pagan influence(Cain).

Poetic Forms- Caesura, Alliteration, Rhythm, Kenning, Stress

Why did the warriors come with Beowulf to the dragon's cave?
He wanted to be escorted, but he wanted to fight by himself. He wants an audience for the fight. He wants to prove himself.

Mythic Heroic Archetype- The entire poem (BW) is a battle against himself(always about the internal)

Beowulfs weakness=his pride

*Reminder, mythic heroic archetype story/poem does not need all 10 points.

Does Wiglaf ruin the archetype?
No, because it is merely a variation of the theme. BW should have asked for help all along...i.e. Saving Private Ryan

How long is BW with the Danes?
4 days

Is it possible to be a guide and a hero?
Yes. But it will take a lot of variation. Ex. Stephen King's book the Gun Slinger=hero looses his fingers and cannot carry out journey, guide becomes hero and hero becomes guide.

Does every community have a hero with extraordinary strength?
No, BW is exceptional, he has much more strength(physically and mentally)

Grendel-No weapons
GM-Sword
Dragon-Shield

Why does BW use weapons against GM?
It is all about teriitory. BW wants to make it a fair and equal fight. He must adapt to the specific situation.

Laz asked us about our opinions of the book...sadly, few answered.

If the Geats don't trust BW, why did they choose him to fight?
He was put on the spot to prove himself or die trying. He had the chance to make something of himself, so he did.

STUDY FOR THE TEST ON THURSDAY OR BE PREPARED TO FAIL!!!

John Leskow