Eaters Of The Dead

Do your own research on the epic poem Beowulf. How similar is the story of Buliwyf? Why do you think Crichton chose to keep or change the elements he did in Eaters of the Dead? Connect Crichton’s narrative choices to the themes of the novel.

How does Buliwyf’s embodiment of the idea of a Norse hero affect the broader portrayal of heroism in the novel? Cite at least three examples from the text.

Herger is Ahmad’s friend and guide to Norse culture. How does Herger’s perspective influence the way Ahmad sees the world? Cite at least three examples from the text.

How does Hurot Hall reflect Rothgar’s failings as a Norse king? Compare and contrast the cultural norms behind the Norsemen and Ahmad’s different reactions to Hurot Hall.

How do the wendol function as a challenge to Ahmad’s expectations of civilization? Is there any evidence of sophisticated wendol society? Support your argument with at least five examples from the text.

What is the purpose of the Editor’s interjections and footnotes? Beyond stylistic differences, how would the story be changed if told another way?

Examine Crichton’s portrayal of death and funeral rites. How do the attitudes of the different civilizations toward death reflect their values? Compare and contrast at least two communities in the novel.

Wiglif is one of two remaining heirs to Rothgar’s throne. In what way does Wiglif embody Norse culture as presented in the novel? In what way does he contradict it? Compare and contrast Wiglif with Buliwyf.