Beowulf Outline

It has often been said that what we value can be determined only by what we sacrifice. Beowulf deliberately sacrificed many things in his travels which highlights Beowulf’s values. Write an essay to analyze the sacrifices that illuminates Beowulf’s values

I. Introduction

The title of this epic is Beowulf and has no certain author.

A. Thesis- Beowulf’s values are illuminated through his deliberate sacrifices, not only for his people but people in other countries.

II. Beowulf wages battle with the terrible fiend of the name Grendel.

A. Description/ Analysis

1. Beowulf is aware that he may lose his life in the battle with Grendel

2. Beowulf sacrifices his safety by agreeing to fight without weapons

3. Beowulf is ready to sacrifice his reputation with his battle with Grendel.

B. Primary Source- Quote(s) (citation)

1. “If Grendel wins, it will be a gruesome day.” (Line 442)

2. “I hereby renounce sword and shelter of the broad shield.” (Lines 436-437)

3. “No need to lament for long or lay out my body.”

C. Secondary Sources- Quote(s) (citation)

1. “When he entered the hall at Heorot and waited for Grendel, it was feared that he would not live to exit it” (sel)

2. “He sacrifices his life and his safety by not using any weapons or armor.” (Beo)

3.

III. The swimming match with Breca

A. Description/ Analysis

1. Beowulf almost give his life during the swimming match

2. Beowulf puts his reputation on the line in this segment of the epic

3. Beowulf shows his courage through the swimming match

B. Primary Source- Quote(s) (citation)

1. “Time and time again, foul things attacked me, lurking and stalking” (lines 559-560)

2.” And the he outswam you and came ashore the stronger contender” (lines 517-518)

3. “Often, for undaunted courage, fate spares the man it has not already marked. However I had already killed nine sea monsters.” (Lines 572-575

C. Secondary Sources- Quote(s) (citation)

1. “They attacked me, meaning