Beowulf Part 1 Test
Test covers Beowulf through line 1650, the literary terms associated with the poem, archetypes, argumentative writing, and "Into the Wild" excerpts and articles.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Describe the fight between Grendel's mother and Beowulf. BE SPECIFIC!
- 2.
We have looked at the theory of archetypal characters in literature and how that plays a role in "Beowulf." In a complete and well thought out response: 1. Define what an archetype 2. Provide an example from the text and 3. Explain where else you've see that example and what makes it an archetype.
- 3.
What is the difference between argumentative and persuasive writing?
- 4.
According to experts, it is most likely that "Beowulf" was first written down by...
- A.
A viking monk.
- B.
An Irish monk
- C.
An English monk
- D.
Barry
Correct Answer
C. An English monkExplanation
According to experts, the most likely explanation is that "Beowulf" was first written down by an English monk. This is because "Beowulf" is an Old English poem and it is believed to have originated in England. Additionally, the manuscript of "Beowulf" was found in England, further supporting the theory that it was written by an English monk.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Beowulf was originally written in...
- A.
Ancient English
- B.
Old English
- C.
Early Middle English
- D.
Early Modern English
Correct Answer
B. Old EnglishExplanation
The correct answer is Old English. Beowulf, an epic poem, was originally written in Old English, which was the language spoken in England from the 5th to the 11th century. This language is significantly different from Modern English, with distinct vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. The poem is one of the oldest surviving works of literature in the English language and provides valuable insights into the culture and society of the time.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The pause used in the poetic oral tradition to create unity and dramatic effect is called...
- A.
Onomatopoeia
- B.
Kenning
- C.
Caesura
- D.
Alliteration
Correct Answer
C. CaesuraExplanation
Caesura is the correct answer because it refers to a pause in the middle of a line of poetry. This pause is used to create a sense of unity and dramatic effect. It allows the reader or listener to pause and reflect on the words before continuing, adding emphasis and depth to the poetic expression. Onomatopoeia, kenning, and alliteration are all poetic devices, but they do not specifically refer to a pause used for dramatic effect.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which poetic device is being used in the following example: "Kevin's constant clamoring."
- A.
Alliteration
- B.
Caesura
- C.
Kenning
- D.
Onomatopoeia
Correct Answer
A. AlliterationExplanation
The given example, "Kevin's constant clamoring," uses alliteration. Alliteration is a poetic device where the repetition of consonant sounds occurs at the beginning of words in close proximity. In this case, the "k" sound is repeated in both "Kevin's" and "constant," creating a musical and rhythmic effect in the phrase.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Using "whale road" instead of "ocean" or "bone house" instead of "body" are examples of...
- A.
Alliteration
- B.
Caesura
- C.
Kenning
- D.
Onomatopoeia
Correct Answer
C. KenningExplanation
A kenning is a figure of speech in Old English and Old Norse poetry where a compound expression is used to describe something in a metaphorical or indirect way. In this case, "whale road" and "bone house" are examples of kennings because they are metaphorical phrases used to describe the ocean and the body, respectively.Rate this question:
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- 9.
A quest story on a grand scale is called an________________________.
Correct Answer
epicExplanation
An epic is a type of quest story that is characterized by its grand scale. It typically follows a heroic protagonist on a journey or adventure that involves overcoming various challenges and obstacles. Epics often explore themes of heroism, honor, and the human condition. They are known for their extensive length, complex plotlines, and larger-than-life characters. Examples of famous epics include the Iliad, the Odyssey, and the Ramayana.Rate this question:
- 10.
"Beowulf" is significant, in part, because it is the earliest known piece of English literature.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
"Beowulf" is considered significant because it is recognized as the earliest known piece of English literature. This epic poem, believed to have been composed between the 8th and 11th centuries, provides valuable insights into the language, culture, and storytelling traditions of the Anglo-Saxon period. Its historical importance and influence on subsequent works make it a significant piece of literature in the English language.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What is the name of the grand hall of the Danes?
- A.
Herod
- B.
Heorot
- C.
Hrothgar
- D.
Heotaf
Correct Answer
B. HeorotExplanation
Heorot is the correct answer because it is the name of the grand hall of the Danes. In the epic poem Beowulf, Heorot is described as a magnificent mead hall built by King Hrothgar. It is a symbol of power and prosperity for the Danes, but it is also plagued by the attacks of the monster Grendel. Beowulf, the hero of the poem, ultimately defeats Grendel and brings peace back to Heorot.Rate this question:
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- 12.
A bard is...
- A.
A viking warrior
- B.
A poet from the oral tradition
- C.
A monk who wrote down poems from the oral tradition
- D.
A special weapon
Correct Answer
B. A poet from the oral traditionExplanation
A bard is a poet from the oral tradition. In ancient times, bards were highly respected individuals who composed and recited poems, songs, and stories to entertain and educate their communities. They were skilled in memorization and would pass down their compositions through generations by word of mouth. Bards played a significant role in preserving cultural heritage and were often associated with historical events and legends. Their artistry and ability to captivate audiences through their words made them an integral part of many societies.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Approximately when was "Beowulf" written down?
- A.
500-550 AD
- B.
600-650 AD
- C.
700-750 AD
- D.
800-850 AD
Correct Answer
C. 700-750 ADExplanation
Beowulf is believed to have been written down approximately between 700-750 AD. This time frame is based on the linguistic analysis of the Old English language used in the poem, as well as historical and cultural references within the text. The manuscript of Beowulf, known as the Nowell Codex, dates back to the late 10th or early 11th century, but the actual composition of the poem is estimated to have taken place several centuries earlier.Rate this question:
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- 14.
When Beowulf first arrives in the kingdom, they sit in the mead-hall for a while,then the Danes retire to safer sleeping quarters, Beowulf and the Geats bed down in Heorot, fully aware that Grendel will visit them. He does. What does he do?
- A.
The ogre furiously bursts in on the Geats, killing one and then reaching for Beowulf.
- B.
Kills the king and Beowulf.
- C.
Retreats in terror.
- D.
Brings in his mother to finish off the Danes.
Correct Answer
A. The ogre furiously bursts in on the Geats, killing one and then reaching for Beowulf.Explanation
When Beowulf and the Geats bed down in Heorot, Grendel bursts into the mead-hall and attacks them. He kills one of the Geats and then tries to reach for Beowulf. This shows Grendel's violent nature and his intention to harm the warriors in the mead-hall.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following was considered a virtue and moral duty in Anglo-Saxon culture?
- A.
Forgiveness
- B.
Compassion for one’s enemy
- C.
Revenge
- D.
Removing of belongings before burial
Correct Answer
C. RevengeExplanation
Revenge was considered a virtue and moral duty in Anglo-Saxon culture. In this culture, seeking revenge was seen as a way to restore honor and maintain social order. It was believed that avenging a wrong was necessary to uphold one's reputation and ensure justice. Revenge was seen as a means of restoring balance and harmony within the community.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which of these rituals were carried out by Anglo-Saxon warriors before they went into battle?
- A.
Praying
- B.
Meditating
- C.
Boasting
- D.
Dancing
Correct Answer
C. BoastingExplanation
Anglo-Saxon warriors would engage in boasting before going into battle. This ritual was a way for them to display their courage, skill, and determination to their comrades and opponents. By boasting, they aimed to intimidate their enemies and boost their own morale. This ritual was deeply ingrained in their warrior culture and served as a form of psychological preparation before facing the challenges of battle.Rate this question:
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- 17.
During the Anglo-Saxon period, the ruling motive of every noble life was what?
- A.
Love of glory
- B.
Family honour
- C.
Wealth and material possessions
- D.
Love of nature
Correct Answer
A. Love of gloryExplanation
During the Anglo-Saxon period, the ruling motive of every noble life was the pursuit of glory. This means that the nobles were driven by the desire to achieve fame, honor, and recognition. They sought to distinguish themselves through acts of bravery, valor, and heroic deeds, which would bring them glory and ensure their place in history. This pursuit of glory was deeply ingrained in their culture and influenced their actions and decisions, shaping their lives and defining their social status.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Under which Old English poetic genre can Beowulf be classified?
- A.
Short elegy with lyrical tone
- B.
Riddle
- C.
Epic poem
- D.
Gnomic verse
Correct Answer
C. Epic poemExplanation
Beowulf can be classified as an epic poem because it is a long narrative poem that tells the story of a hero's journey and his battles against monsters and other challenges. It follows the traditional structure of an epic, with a heroic protagonist, supernatural elements, and a grand scale. The poem also explores themes of heroism, honor, and the struggle between good and evil, which are common in epic literature.Rate this question:
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- 19.
According to the poem, which elements construct a person’s identity?
- A.
Deeds and courage
- B.
Friendship
- C.
Lineage
- D.
A) and c) are correct
Correct Answer
D. A) and c) are correctExplanation
According to the poem, a person's identity is constructed by their deeds, courage, and lineage. This means that the actions and bravery of an individual, as well as their family background, contribute to shaping who they are. Friendship is not mentioned as one of the elements that construct a person's identity in the poem.Rate this question:
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- 20.
From which Northern Germanic tribe does Beowulf originate?
- A.
The Danes
- B.
The Angles
- C.
The Jutes
- D.
The Geats
Correct Answer
D. The GeatsExplanation
Beowulf is a legendary hero in the epic poem Beowulf, which is believed to have been composed by an anonymous poet from the Anglo-Saxon period. Beowulf himself is described as a Geat, a tribe that inhabited what is now modern-day Sweden. Throughout the poem, Beowulf travels from his homeland in Geatland to Denmark to help King Hrothgar defeat the monster Grendel. Therefore, the correct answer is The Geats.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Hrothgar is the King of which tribe?
- A.
The Geats
- B.
The Danes
- C.
The Frisians
- D.
The Britons
Correct Answer
B. The DanesExplanation
Hrothgar is the King of the Danes.Rate this question:
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- 22.
For how many years has Grendel been terrorising the Danes before Beowulf’s arrival?
- A.
5 years
- B.
7 years
- C.
12 years
- D.
45 years
Correct Answer
C. 12 yearsExplanation
Grendel has been terrorizing the Danes for 12 years before Beowulf's arrival. This implies that the Danes have been suffering from Grendel's attacks for a significant amount of time, causing fear and devastation among them. Beowulf's arrival is significant because it offers hope and the possibility of ending Grendel's reign of terror.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Before the epic battle between Beowulf and Grendel in the great hall, which of these events takes place?
- A.
Grendel falls asleep
- B.
Beowulf sharpens his sword
- C.
Grendel kills one of Beowulf’s men
- D.
Beowulf kills Grendel’s mother
Correct Answer
C. Grendel kills one of Beowulf’s menExplanation
Before the epic battle between Beowulf and Grendel in the great hall, Grendel kills one of Beowulf's men. This event occurs before the battle and sets the stage for the conflict between Beowulf and Grendel. It establishes Grendel's violent nature and the personal vendetta he has against Beowulf and his men. This event also serves to increase the tension and anticipation for the upcoming battle, as it highlights the danger and threat that Grendel poses to Beowulf and his warriors.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Grendel and his mother are described as the descendents of which biblical figure?
- A.
Abel
- B.
Cain
- C.
Judas
- D.
Moses
Correct Answer
B. CainExplanation
Grendel and his mother are described as the descendants of Cain. In the biblical story of Cain and Abel, Cain kills his brother Abel out of jealousy, and is then marked by God and cursed to wander the earth. Grendel is often portrayed as a monstrous and cursed figure in the epic poem Beowulf, and his lineage from Cain reflects his evil and destructive nature.Rate this question:
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- 25.
How does Beowulf kill Grendel?
- A.
With a sword
- B.
By pulling off his arm
- C.
With a bow and arrow
- D.
By decapitation
Correct Answer
B. By pulling off his armExplanation
Beowulf kills Grendel by pulling off his arm. This is depicted in the epic poem Beowulf, where Beowulf engages in a fierce battle with Grendel in Heorot, the mead hall. Beowulf uses his immense strength to grab hold of Grendel's arm and tears it off, causing Grendel to retreat and eventually die from his injuries. This act of defeating Grendel without the use of weapons showcases Beowulf's exceptional physical prowess and bravery.Rate this question:
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- 26.
When Beowulf discovers Grendel’s corpse in the lair, what does he decide to do?
- A.
Cut off a lock of his hair to take to Geatland
- B.
Bury him under an Elm tree in Heorot
- C.
Wrap him in cloth and throw him in the lake
- D.
Sever his head to take to Heorot
Correct Answer
D. Sever his head to take to HeorotExplanation
Beowulf decides to sever Grendel's head to take it to Heorot. This decision is significant because it serves as proof of his victory over the monster and demonstrates his bravery and strength to the people of Heorot. Additionally, bringing Grendel's head back with him allows Beowulf to fulfill his promise to King Hrothgar and further solidify his heroic status.Rate this question:
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- 27.
What does Hrothgar give Beowulf to show his appreciation for killing Grendel’s mother?
- A.
He gives his daughter’s hand in marriage
- B.
He gives him the keys to his castle
- C.
He gives him the sword “Nægling”
- D.
He gives him a hug
Correct Answer
C. He gives him the sword “Nægling”Explanation
Hrothgar gives Beowulf the sword "Nægling" to show his appreciation for killing Grendel's mother.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Alexander Supertramp's name at birth was...
- A.
Kevin McCorrdry
- B.
Keith McConnally
- C.
Chris McCandless
- D.
Chris McCandor
Correct Answer
C. Chris McCandlessExplanation
The given question is asking for the birth name of Alexander Supertramp. The correct answer is Chris McCandless. This implies that Alexander Supertramp changed his name to Chris McCandless.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The "Magic Bus" that was the last home for "Alex" was located near which feature...
- A.
The Kodiak Trail
- B.
The Stampede Trail
- C.
The Denali Trail
- D.
The Wilderness Trail
Correct Answer
B. The Stampede TrailExplanation
The correct answer is The Stampede Trail. The question asks about the location of the "Magic Bus," which was the last home for "Alex." The Stampede Trail is the correct answer because it is the trail where the bus was located.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Reconciliation with the Mother is a stage in the Hero's Journey according to Joseph Campbell.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Reconciliation with the Mother is not a stage in the Hero's Journey according to Joseph Campbell. The Hero's Journey is a narrative pattern that consists of various stages such as the Call to Adventure, Crossing the Threshold, and Atonement with the Father. These stages represent the hero's journey of self-discovery and transformation. While the relationship with the mother figure may be significant in some hero's stories, it is not specifically identified as a stage in Campbell's framework. Therefore, the correct answer is False.Rate this question:
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- 31.
The psychological perspective of the archetype was an idea made famous by Sigmund Freud.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement suggests that the psychological perspective of the archetype was made famous by Sigmund Freud. However, this is not true. While Freud made significant contributions to psychology, he is more known for his theories on the unconscious mind, psychoanalysis, and the interpretation of dreams. The concept of archetypes, which are universal symbols or themes found in the collective unconscious, was actually developed by Carl Jung, a colleague of Freud. Therefore, the correct answer is False.Rate this question:
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- 32.
The book Joseph Campbell wrote that explained his idea of the archetype and the hero's journey is called The Hero with a Thousand Faces.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Joseph Campbell wrote a book called "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" which explains his idea of the archetype and the hero's journey. This book explores the common patterns and themes found in myths and stories from different cultures, and how they reflect the universal human experience. It delves into the concept of the hero's journey, which is a narrative structure that follows a hero's transformational journey from ordinary to extraordinary. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
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