TODAY IN CLASS
In both classes we saw Beowulf survive a close call but ultimately prevail over Grendel's mother. In 4th period we also got Grendel's head sliced off (somewhat superfluously), and in 6th we ALMOST did . . .but in both, we need to look briefly at the aftermath.  Know what happens to the sword, know the different responses of the waiting Geats and Danes, and the details of what happens with Grendel's head.  (And why is it more important than Grendel's mother's equally decapitated head?)  I'll provide a VERY brief (no hand-out) synopsis of the finale of Beowulf's visit to Hrothgar's kingdom.

But the main subject for tomorrow is the dragon:  know what ticks him off, think about what he could "represent," understand Beowulf's different preparations/expectations, and trace carefully how the dragon is ultimately killed.  Who helps?  Who doesn't?  Why not?  So what?  Then, the ending:  What does Wiglaf's role become?  How is Beowulf mourned?  What qualities do the mourners associate with Beowulf?  Are these the same ones you would mention?  Why or why not?

So FOR TOMORROW
Same as what I told you yesterday:  by class time on Thursday, you need to have read pp. 54-60.