The Monster’s Mother

① Define loathsome.

Loathsome-adj: disgusting.

② What is Hrunting?

Hrunting is Beowulf’s sword.

③ Who is the “greedy she-wolf”?

The “greedy she wolf” is a compound metaphor referencing Grendel’s mother.

④ How long has Grendel’s mother ruled the waters?

Grendel’s mother has ruled the water for half a hundred years.

④ How long does it take for Beowulf to find Grendel’s mother?

Beowulf sank through the waves for hours before Grendel’s mother went to welcome him with her claws.

⑥ Why is Grendel’s mother unable to harm Beowulf?

Grendel’s mother is unable to harm Beowulf because she could not claw through the tight ring-woven mail on his breast.

⑥ Where does Grendel’s mother take Beowulf, and from what two is Beowulf protected?

Grendel’s mother takes Beowulf to someone’s battle-hall where the water’s heat nor anything in the lake could hurt or attack him.

⑧ What weapon does Beowulf use to defeat Grendel’s mother?

Beowulf uses a heavy sword, “hammered by giants, strong and blessed with their magic” to defeat Grendel’s mother ⑨ What fatal injury does Beowulf inflict upon Grendel’s mother?

Beowulf cuts through the neck of Grendel’s mother and kills her.

⑩ What happens to Beowulf immediately after he kills Grendel’s mother?

Beowulf rejoiced at the sight of Grendel’s mother’s blood.

⑩ What does Beowulf bring back to Hrothgar to prove that Grendel is no longer a threat?

Beowulf carries Grendel’s head to King Hrothgar.