Beowulf

by Anonymous

Published 1 June 1892
The story of one man's triumph over a legendary monster, Beowulf marks the beginning of Anglo-Saxon literature as we know it today.

Beowulf is the earliest extant poem in a modern European language. It was composed in England four centuries before the Norman Conquest. But no one knows exactly when it was composed, or by whom, or why. As a social document this great epic reflects a feudal, newly Christian world of heroes and monsters, blood and victory and death.

When a Danish king called Hrothgar is confronted with Grendel, a monster who has taken to attacking his hall Herot, Beowulf of the Geats comes to slay Grendel. Then Beowulf must slay Grendel's mother and battle a mighty dragon.

This edition includes:
-A concise introduction that gives readers important background information
-A timeline of significant events that provides the book's historical context
-An outline of key themes and plot points to help readers form their own interpretations
-Detailed explanatory notes
-Critical analysis and modern perspectives on the work
-Discussion questions to promote lively classroom and book group interaction
-A list of recommended related books and films to broaden the reader's experience

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