In both Beowulf and The Canterbury Tales, the underlying theme is one of travel. Beowulf travels to Denmark to destroy Grendel; the pilgrims travel from Tabard Inn, in London, to reach Canterbury Cathedral. Travel–or a quest–has been an important theme in things we’ve discussed earlier as well, including the Aeneid and the Odyssey (the term “odyssey” has even come to mean “a long trip”). For this post, due on December 3rd, discuss the motivations each character might have had to take their trips, or go on their quests, being sure to discuss more psychological, deeper motivations, rather than the obvious surface reasons. This post should be more than 500 words. Here are the elements you should be sure to cover: Identify the reason(s) or motivations Beowulf or the Pilgrims take their quests Assess whether or not those reasons are “good” ones, and explain why you have concluded they are. Find a passage in the text of at least three lines that support your conclusion, then explain how that passage supports the conclusion. Compare the motivations for travel of the Medieval characters (Beowulf and the Pilgrims) to the motivations for travel of the Ancient characters (Gilgamesh, Odysseus, and Aeneas). Which motivation is most noble, and why?

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The purpose of this assignment is to allow the student an opportunity to use what is learned in class to encounter and engage with Buddhism. The paper may be based on: (1) reading an extra book and writing a review of it (for example, a Buddhist’s religious autobiography); (2) visiting the official website of a major Buddhist organization and providing a critical description of it that places it within its traditional lineage and contextualizes its teachings and activities; (3) visiting a local Buddhist temple or community and reporting on its activities and/or a conversation with its congregation; (4) interviewing a Buddhist and reporting on their understanding of their belief and practice (instructor can help with contacts); or (5) watching a movie with Buddhist themes (such as Kundun or Seven Years in Tibet; instructor can suggest others); or (6) watching a documentary on Buddhism, some of which may be found on YouTube (for example one of the videos found on the Buddhistdoor Global YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/BuddhistdoorBDI)). Other ideas are welcome, but the student must discuss and clear them with the instructor.

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