After Hrothgar builds Heorot, what first draws Grendel's hatred toward the hall?

On Grendel's first night raid, what does he do before retreating to his lair?

The poem says Grendel rules the hall at night for twelve winters. What is the Danes' problem during those years?

What brings Beowulf from Geatland to Denmark in the Grendel episode?

Before Beowulf is admitted to Hrothgar, which figure challenges the strangers on the shore?

At the feast, what episode interrupts Beowulf's formal offer to fight Grendel?

When Grendel enters the dark hall, what happens just before Beowulf grips him?

Beowulf names Ecgtheow and recounts victories before offering help. In heroic-code terms, what is his boast doing?

Hrothgar remembers settling Ecgtheow's feud when Beowulf was a child. How does that memory shape Beowulf's mission?

Beowulf sets aside sword and mail before waiting in Heorot. Why does he choose to meet Grendel bare-handed?

Beowulf says the outcome of the night fight will rest with God or fate. What heroic value does that statement emphasize?

After Grendel is defeated, Hrothgar rewards Beowulf with treasure and praise. Which Anglo-Saxon bond does that scene enact?

Beowulf's companions lie in Heorot even though they expect Grendel's attack. What code explains their staying with him?

How does the poem contrast Grendel with the Danes in Heorot?

Unferth attacks Beowulf with the Breca story; Beowulf answers by narrating sea-monsters and survival. What contrast does the exchange build?

Hrothgar has wealth and a famous hall, yet he cannot stop Grendel. Beowulf arrives as a young fighter. What contrast is emphasized?

The Danes have abandoned Heorot at night, but Beowulf chooses to sleep there with his men. What does that contrast reveal?

During the fight, Grendel tries to escape while Beowulf tightens his grip. What contrast in character is shown?

Why does the poem follow Grendel across the moors and through the night before he reaches Heorot?

Grendel comes when the warriors are asleep in the hall. What does the setting add to the threat?

The poem says swords cannot harm Grendel because of a spell or protection. How does that detail heighten the fight?

The benches crash, the hall groans, and warriors hear the struggle in darkness. What effect does this description create?

Heorot holds the feast, the scop's song, gift-giving, and the warriors' sleep. What does Grendel attack when he attacks the hall?

For twelve winters, Heorot is famous yet unsafe after dark. What does that contradiction show about Hrothgar's kingdom?

After Grendel flees, his torn arm is displayed high in Heorot. What does the trophy mean for the hall?