Real life connection II

Why do we (society) continue to study and read epics written thousands of years ago? What's the point? Do we learn anything from these stories?

Real life connection

This could perhaps be tied to our current presidential electorates. One who believes in talk and diplomacy and the other who believes in action. Do you think leaders of rival nations, tribes, or groups should settle differences between themselves without involving their followers? Is it possible or practical to settle conflicts this way? Support your responses.

Achilles and Beowulf

Compare and contrast Achilles and Beowulf. Consider their actions and the reasons for those actions. Think abou thow they are alike and how they are different. Who behaves more like a true epic hero?

Alliteration and epic similes

Find some in both Beowulf and The Illiad. Why do the authors employ these devices?

Achilles and Hector

To waht extent to Hector and Achilles correspond to your idea of a hero?

Beowulf the movie

Did anybody see the one released last year? It was horrible and nothing like what you read? What did you think of the movie, now that you've read a large portion of the epic?

Epic qualities of Beowulf

Is Beowulf an epic hero? Why?

Theme

Beowulf defeats evil in two forms: Grendel and Grendel's mother, yet essentially, he loses his life. What themes does this suggest about the struggle between good and evil?

Anglo-Saxons

On the basis of your reading of Beowulf, what qualities or values do you think the Anglo-Saxons admired?

Modern hero

What are those qualities you look for in a modern hero?

Epic heroes

You've now read various excerpts from major works of world literature: Bewulf and The Illiad. Re-read pages 28-29 that describe those qualities of an epic work. Then involve yourself in the various postings concerning these epic heroes. When possible, use specific evidence from the text.