It was most likely composed regarding the 8th century, whilst the precise date and you can writer are still unfamiliar
Beowulf try a timeless epic poem one to really stands as one of the earliest and more than crucial works when you look at the Dated English books. New poem is set regarding the areas of your own Geats and the latest Danes, showing the social thinking, brave beliefs, and you can supernatural viewpoints of time. The story unfolds for the around three fundamental bits, for every single to present a distinct stage of titular hero’s life and their knowledge with various pressures.
The poem begins with a depiction of Danish empire under the brand new signal from King Hrothgar, who is plagued by the newest massive Grendel. Grendel is good descendant out-of Cain, cursed to live in exile and torment mankind. Nights shortly after nights, the guy invades the great hallway out of Heorot, where the Danes assemble so you can banquet and you may celebrate. Grendel’s episodes get off the latest hall desolate and construct an environment regarding despair and you can worry regarding the homes. To possess a dozen years, Hrothgar’s everyone is powerless against Grendel’s wrath.
Word of brand new Danes’ predicament are at the brand new Geats, a surrounding group with what is becoming southern Sweden. The new Geats was contributed because of the their commendable and you can courageous king, Beowulf. Heeding the decision to possess assist, Beowulf sails so you can Denmark that have a band out-of his most effective fighters. Up on their arrival, Beowulf tells Hrothgar from their intention to face Grendel and put relief from brand new creature’s reign away from scary.More