Beowulf is one of the most important instances in Old
English. Also, it’s the oldest epic poem in English Literature. It consists of
approximately 3000 lines. Although this work belongs to Old English, heroes
aren’t English. They are Nordic.
Beowulf is anonymus. It appeared in oral tradition in 8th
century, and it was put down on paper in 10th century. In 1878, this work was
translated to Modern English by Grimur Jonsson Thorkelin.
Let’s explain this poem. Once upon a time, there was an old
king living in Jute. His name was Hrothgor. He was good and powerful person.
But, also there was a monster known as ‘Grendel’. Monster attacked king’s country
all the time. Meanwhile, Beowulf, who was a young warrior, came from beyond the
sea, and fought against monster. He won the fight by separating Grendel's arm
from its body. For this reason, Grendel’s mother wanted to take revenge. But she failed.
Beowulf became king in his country. When he got older, a
dragon began to attack to the country. Everybody except for Wiglaf, run away
because of dragon. They fought. Dragon and Beowulf died. Finally, a funeral was organized for Beowulf.
To sum up, the thing emphasized in poem is heroism and
doing everything to be hero. This is goal. To be courageous and reputation are important
for them. Because they are non-believer. According to them, there is no life
after death. What really matters is doing their best when they’re living.
