The epic story of Beowulf has incredible potential for pulling high school students right into its story. The story is almost like a video game or an action movie. Because students can easily get interested in the story of Beowulf, involving them in projects relating to Beowulf will most likely produce great success. One fun project that is simple to put together, but stunning to present is the Time Capsule.
Concept of the Capsule
A time capsule is a container into which its owner places items from his/her life or time-period. The purpose of the capsule is for future generations to discover it and learn more about and experience past history. A capsule from 2010 might contain a cell phone, a receipt from Wal-mart, a flyer from the past presidential election, pictures of major new events, etc...
A time capsule from Beowulf's time, however, would obviously contain quite different articles. Since he was so important during his time in literary history, he would doubtless place in articles from or relating to his numerous adventures and exploits.
What to Use for a Capsule
Naturally it would be important to choose a capsule (container) that would survive for at least several generations. Since this is only a school project, the durability of the capsule does not have to be as long. It is even possible to allow the student to place the capsule items in a grocery bag and just present them as the contents of the capsule.
If a real capsule is decided upon, there are several choices:
- a plastic container with a lid
- a shoe box wrapped in brown paper (or packing paper, wallpaper, or gift wrap)
- an empty oatmeal container wrapped in paper
- an historically realistic wooden chest (can be bought at stores like Hobby Lobby)
What to Place in the Capsule
Place in the capsule any article related to an event in the story of Beowulf or to the time-period. One student placed the following articles in his capsule:
- fake fur (supposedly from fighting Grendal)
- a cheap, fancy cup (supposedly the goblet stolen from the dragon)
- a drawing of a man (supposedly Unferth)
- a toy dagger (supposedly belonging to Beowulf)
- fake gold coins (also from the dragon's treasure)
Other items that could be placed into the capsule:
- a handwritten portion of the story of Beowulf
- a "letter" from Beowulf
- a drawing of the monsters Beowulf fought
- a piece of cloth (supposedly from Beowulf's garments)
The possibilities really are endless for putting together high school projects based on literature. These ideas for how to present a Beowulf time capsule just scratch the surface of all the possibilities available. Have the student present and discuss what each item is and why he/she included it in the capsule. Assembling the capsule will help students "touch" and "feel" the story of Beowulf.
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