BEOWULF BY THE BEOWULF POET - SUMMARY, THEME, CHARACTERS & SETTING
The Book Tutor・6 minutes read
Beowulf is an epic adventure about a heroic prince who saves neighboring kingdoms by defeating monsters. The story, written in the 8th century, tells of Beowulf's battles against Grendel and a dragon, showcasing his bravery and sacrifice for his people.
Insights
- Beowulf, an epic tale from the 8th century, is the first known English-language story, showcasing a heroic prince's battles against monstrous foes like Grendel and a dragon, emphasizing themes of valor, sacrifice, and legacy.
- The narrative of Beowulf encapsulates the timeless struggle between good and evil, illustrating the hero's journey from a valiant warrior defeating Grendel to a noble King facing a dragon, ultimately highlighting the cycle of life, death, and the enduring legacy of heroism.
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Recent questions
Who is the main character in Beowulf?
Beowulf
What is the setting of Beowulf?
Early to mid-sixth centuries
What language was Beowulf originally composed in?
Old English
How does Beowulf defeat Grendel?
Tears off Grendel's arm
What happens to Beowulf at the end of the story?
Dies after defeating a dragon
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Summary
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"Beowulf: Heroic Prince Defeats Monsters, Dragons"
- Beowulf is an epic adventure story of a heroic prince who saves a neighboring Kingdom by defeating a troll-like monster and its avenging mother. Later in life, as King, Beowulf faces a dragon to protect his own Kingdom.
- The story, composed in Old English in the 8th century, is the first English-language story ever written down. It takes place in the early to mid-sixth centuries and consists of two parts, with the first part focusing on Beowulf's battle against Grendel and his mother.
- Beowulf, with a small band of men, arrives at King Hrothgar's feasting hall to defeat Grendel. After a fierce hand-to-hand battle, Beowulf tears off Grendel's arm, causing the monster to flee and die in the wilderness.
- In the second part of the story, Beowulf, now King, faces a dragon threatening his Kingdom. Despite sustaining a mortal wound, Beowulf, with one loyal warrior, defeats the dragon but dies shortly after. He receives a hero's funeral and is remembered with a great mound near the sea.
