The Epic of Beowulf Summary

Beowulf is a young warrior in Geatland, who comes to the aid of the Scyldings. Hrothgar
is the Danish king and he and his people have been terrorized by a monster. Beowulf brings 14
of his finest men with him. He is returning the favor, Hrothgar sheltered Beowulf's father during
a deadly feud. He also wants enhance his reputation and gather treasure for his king, Hygelac.
The monster, Grendel comes and attacks them, but Beowulf cuts off his claw and the monster is
mortally wounded. The mother of Grendel, not as strong as her son, but deeply motivated, plans
revenge. She sneaks in and gets her son's claw. Beowulf and the men follow the trail of the
mother and are lead to a dark swamp. Beowulf dives in to find the mother. He tries to fight her
with his sword, but to no avail. He suddenly sees a magical sword and slices through the neck and
spine of the monster, killing her. When the monster dies, he sees a great treasure, but he leaves
it there, only bringing the head of the monster back with him.

He returns home and ends up becoming king and rules for 50 years. He has one last battle.
This one is with the fiery dragon. He kills the dragon, but is mortally wounded in the battle and
dies.

Beowulf is the longest surviving Anglo-Saxon poems today. It is a literary masterpiece. To

know that a work of literature has lasted for this many years is remarkable. This poem is
considered one of the most important works of literature today. It is truly one of the most
amazing pieces of literature we have in our use today.