The oldest known work of English literature.
Although Beowulf is considered English literature it is not set in England Germanic tribes invaded what is now known as England in the 5 th Century and brought their stories with them
Seeks adventure, honor, glory, far and wide The epic hero is legendary, tales of his bravery and deeds are well known Possesses and performs superhuman strength, abilities, deeds of heroism – battles monsters, incomparable warrior There is an element of the supernatural, monsters, dragons, etc. Risks death to help others
Beowulf is a hero who comes to the aid of people who are in jeopardy He is from Geatland, which is present day Sweden
The setting is pre-Christian past, but England was Christian by the time it was composed Set in late 5 th early 6 th Century, circa AD Scholars believe it was composed circa AD, or between the 8 th and 10 th Centuries Because of this there are elements of Christianity and paganism
Original Text of Beowulf – Old English
Beowulf was transmitted and disseminated by word of mouth by being told, or sung Scops (the Shaper in Grendel), sang the songs of heroes and were essentially entertainers of the time period
Some things to consider: Beowulf, the hero, depicted as a Christ like figure Traits that were valued by the Anglo Saxons
The epic has other distinctive features such as, literary devices and techniques The epic is rich with alliteration, kennings, personification The setting is vast in scope in that includes other nations Major characters deliver lone speeches, ‘unlock their word hoards’ The universal theme of good vs. evil is evident