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I. Beówulf: an Anglo-Saxon poem. II. The fight at Finnsburh: a fragment.
Bookshelves: Literature, Poetry, Poetry
Summary
"I. Beówulf: an Anglo-Saxon poem" by an unknown author is an epic poem composed during the early medieval period, likely in the 8th to 11th centuries. The poem recounts the legendary exploits of its titular hero, Beowulf, who battles the monstrous Grendel, Grendel's mother, and later, a dragon, reflecting themes of heroism, fate, and the struggle between good and evil. It serves as a cornerstone of Old English literature, representing a time when storytelling was an important oral tradition. The opening of "Beówulf" sets the stage for the narrative by first paying homage to the great Danish kings and the hero Scyld, establishing the historical context of the poem. It then introduces Hroðgar, a king who builds the great hall Heorot, only to find it plagued by the monstrous Grendel, who terrorizes his people for years. In response to these tribulations, Beowulf, the noble Geatish warrior, arrives with a band of warriors to aid Hroðgar. The section lays foundational elements of the plot, highlighting the themes of kinship, loyalty, and the hero's journey as Beowulf prepares to confront the looming threats that endanger the realm. (This is an automatically generated summary.)