Summary of "Beowulf"

Overview

In 1731, a fire incident in London's Cotton Library threatened valuable manuscripts. Librarians successfully saved a rare Scandinavian poem, "Beowulf," notable for its haunting elements, written in Old English.

Summary of "Beowulf"

• Setting: Begins in Denmark, at the great hall of King Hrothgar.

• Grendel's Attack:

  • Grendel, a grotesque monster, disrupts human joy, terrorizing the Danes every night.
  • Over 12 years, he continues his reign of terror, consuming people.

• Beowulf’s Arrival:

  • Beowulf, Prince of Geats from Sweden, arrives motivated to perform heroic deeds.
  • Defeats Grendel in a fierce battle by ripping off his arm, leading to Grendel's death.

• Grendel’s Mother's Revenge:

  • Grendel’s mother seeks vengeance, attacking the hall and reclaiming Grendel's arm.
  • Beowulf tracks her to a sinister lake, engaged in a deadly battle.

• Battle with Grendel's Mother:

  • Initially struggles using conventional weapons.
  • Finds a legendary sword and delivers the fatal blow, beheading her and emerging victorious.

Beowulf’s Later Years

• Caution from King Hrothgar:

  • Warns Beowulf to remain vigilant against evil.

• Final Battle with the Dragon:

  • Many years later, Beowulf, now king, faces an awakened dragon due to disturbances caused by a fleeing servant.
  • Calls for assistance but only Wiglaf, a young warrior, stands by him.
  • Together, they defeat the dragon; Beowulf dies from his injuries, passing his title to Wiglaf.

Themes and Legacy

• Heroism: Embodies the legendary hero archetype, performing great deeds.
• Legacy and Leadership: Passes wisdom and title to Wiglaf, ensuring continuity of leadership.