This introductory writing prompt asks students to compare Beowulf and Grendel to a modern-day hero/villain of their choice. The activity begins with the creation of 2 Venn Diagrams which can be used as the graphic organizers for student ideas. Students could also work in pairs/small groups to brainstorm characteristics of heroes and villains. The final expectation is a two-page essay which asks students to effectively organize a comparison between a modern-day hero/villain and Beowulf/Grendel. A