This Is Epic

In the four scenes from Beowulf that you are reading, you should observe all the characteristics and qualities of an epic hero. Beowulf, you should notice, is favored by God. He is proud and boastful. Often times, his most valuable weapons are his bare hands, and when he does need a weapon, God provides it for him in a miraculous fashion. He acts for causes greater than himself. And he is a leader of men. Pay close attention as you read to selection of detail. What do the details describing Beowulf's life, deeds, and death suggest and symbolize? Why should we still admire him today? Is he Superman? Or Luke? Or Harry Potter (gag me)? Could it be that simple? (See quote at top of page haha.)

This week, you will be taking reading checks on all of the material from the unit. Make sure you've read carefully. Make sure you've read the elegiac poems, Bede's excerpt from his An Ecclesiastical History of the English People, and the A-S riddles. And always review your notes and pay close attention to your syllabus. We're doing a fairly good job of staying on schedule so far. If I can just keep up with the grading, we're gonna be alright if you READ, READ, READ. I expect some good grades and epic class discussions.

In housekeeping news, I've begun to grade the essays and plan to have them back to you, scored, at your next class meeting. I've put them on top of the grading stack so you can get immediate feedback on your writing. We will spend some time looking at a few sample essays--the good, the bad, and the ugly--between now and the next scheduled timed writing/close reading activity. Let me know if you'd be willing to type up your essay and email it to me when you get it back. I've been known to give some "incentive points" for your effort. Your anonymity will always be protected if I use your essay.

Also, hope you've enjoyed working on your college application essays. As I said, you can get individual feedback on those by appointment during 1st block, 2nd lunch, and sometimes (maybe) after school. Easy grade, so don't miss the dern deadline!

I love Sundays. Takin' son Rome and dog Chipper Jones fishin' on the boat with Hunter, Hayden, and some other members of the new, Central High fishing team! Gonna teach 'dem boys a few things about wettin' a line. (And hopefully learn a few things too!)

Hey, and how bout a few comments?! It's lonely in here all by myself. You guys can use the comment button to ask me (and even better each other) questions about the reading, to give your own commentary and analysis, to get clarification on assignments, or just to talk a little "smack." Take more ownership of the class people! I will listen to your suggestions and concerns and work that stuff into my lessons. Like any good A-S bard, I take requests :-). Speaking of that remind me sometime to spin ya a li'l yarn 'bout the time I was loaded for bear.