What genre is Beowulf book?

      Beowulf, an ancient Anglo-Saxon epic, has captivated readers for centuries with its heroic tales and rich cultural tapestry. Passed down through generations, the epic has become an enduring symbol of the heroic age and a testament to the power of storytelling. As we delve into the genre of Beowulf, we embark on a journey to unravel its literary identity and understand its significance in the realm of world literature.

      Beowulf is a poem that was composed in Old English during the Anglo-Saxon period, between the 8th and 11th centuries. It is one of the oldest surviving works of English literature, preserved in a single manuscript known as the Nowell Codex. This epic poem tells the story of a heroic warrior, Beowulf, who battles supernatural creatures, confronts personal challenges, and defends his people from external threats. The poem explores themes of heroism, fate, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil.

      In our exploration of Beowulf, we aim to shed light on the genre of this ancient epic and examine its literary classification. While commonly referred to as an epic poem, Beowulf's classification within the realms of literature has been a subject of scholarly debate. By analyzing its characteristics, cultural context, and the perspectives of literary scholars, we seek to uncover the true genre of Beowulf and gain a deeper understanding of its literary identity.

Understanding Epic Poetry

   A. Definition of epic poetry and its characteristics

      Epic poetry, a form of narrative literature, dates back to ancient times and is characterized by its grand scope, elevated language, and focus on heroic figures. Epics often recount the adventures and deeds of legendary or mythological heroes, exploring themes of heroism, honor, and the human condition. They typically incorporate supernatural elements, such as gods and monsters, and are composed in a poetic format.

   B. Origins and historical significance of epic poetry

      Epic poetry has a rich history, tracing its roots to ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Greece, and India. These early epics, such as the Epic of Gilgamesh, the Iliad, and the Ramayana, played a vital role in preserving cultural and historical narratives. They served as a medium for transmitting moral values, recounting historical events, and capturing the essence of a society's beliefs and traditions.

   C. Famous examples of epic poetry from various cultures

      The world is replete with renowned examples of epic poetry. In addition to Beowulf, notable examples include the Homeric epics, the Iliad and the Odyssey, which stand as pillars of ancient Greek literature. The Aeneid, written by the Roman poet Virgil, is another revered epic that portrays the journey of Aeneas and the foundation of Rome. Other famous epics include the Mahabharata and the Ramayana from Indian mythology, each of which carries profound cultural and religious significance.

Introducing Beowulf

   A. Background information on the Beowulf manuscript and its discovery

      The Beowulf manuscript, known as the Nowell Codex, was discovered in the 18th century in the collection of a British antiquarian, Lawrence Nowell. It is a compilation of various Old English texts, with Beowulf being the most prominent and extensive poem within the codex. The manuscript itself, written on vellum and now housed in the British Library, provides invaluable insight into the literary and linguistic traditions of the Anglo-Saxon period.

   B. Synopsis of the Beowulf story and its key characters

      Beowulf recounts the heroic exploits of its eponymous protagonist, a Geatish warrior. The story unfolds as Beowulf travels to the Danish kingdom of Hrothgar to assist in defeating the monstrous creature Grendel, who terrorizes the Danes in their mead hall, Heorot. Beowulf successfully defeats Grendel, but his triumph is followed by a confrontation with Grendel's vengeful mother. Years later, Beowulf becomes the king of the Geats and faces his final challenge in a battle with a dragon. Throughout the narrative, characters such as Hrothgar, Wiglaf, and Unferth play important roles in shaping Beowulf's journey.

   C. Historical context and cultural influences on Beowulf

      Beowulf reflects the cultural milieu of the Anglo-Saxon period, a time characterized by warrior societies, tribal loyalties, and a belief in fate. The poem provides valuable insights into the social structure, religious beliefs, and moral values of the Anglo-Saxons. It draws on both pagan and Christian elements, intertwining Germanic mythology with Christian references. The complex interplay between these influences adds layers of depth to the narrative and contributes to the enigmatic nature of Beowulf's genre.

Literary Genres and Beowulf

   A. Examination of the characteristics of various literary genres

      To understand the genre of Beowulf, it is essential to explore the defining characteristics of different literary genres. Genres such as epic poetry, heroic literature, medieval romance, oral tradition, folklore, and tragedy each possess distinct features that shape the storytelling techniques, themes, and structures of the works classified within them.

   B. Potential genres associated with Beowulf and their implications

      Beowulf has been associated with several genres, and each classification offers unique insights into the poem's form and content. Let's explore some potential genres that have been linked to Beowulf and consider their implications.

      1. Epic poetry: Analyzing Beowulf's adherence to epic conventions

         Beowulf possesses many traits commonly associated with epic poetry. It recounts the deeds of a legendary hero, features supernatural elements, and explores grand themes of heroism and fate. The poem's structure, with its grand sweep and elevated language, aligns with the conventions of epic poetry.

      2. Heroic literature: Exploring the portrayal of heroism in Beowulf

         Beowulf embodies the heroic ideal, showcasing the courage, strength, and moral character of its protagonist. The poem celebrates the virtues of heroism, loyalty, and self-sacrifice, highlighting Beowulf as a paragon of heroic literature.

      3. Medieval romance: Evaluating romantic elements within Beowulf

         While medieval romance is typically associated with tales of courtly love, Beowulf presents a different kind of romance. It intertwines the themes of heroism and romance, showcasing the strong bonds of loyalty and friendship that develop between Beowulf and his comrades. These emotional connections contribute to the poem's appeal and its resonance with medieval romance.

      4. Oral tradition and folklore: Uncovering elements of oral storytelling

         Beowulf's origins lie in the oral tradition of storytelling. It is likely that the poem was passed down through generations before being recorded in writing. The influences of oral tradition can be seen in the poem's use of formulaic language, repetition, and the incorporation of folklore and mythological elements.

      5. Tragedy: Assessing tragic elements and their impact on the narrative

         Tragedy, characterized by the downfall of a noble protagonist, may also be considered as a genre lens through which to view Beowulf. The poem contains elements of tragedy, particularly in its portrayal of Beowulf's inevitable mortality and the melancholic tone that permeates the later sections of the narrative.

Scholarly Perspectives and Debates

   A. Overview of different scholarly opinions on Beowulf's genre

      Scholars have long debated the genre classification of Beowulf, resulting in a wide range of opinions. Some assert that Beowulf is an epic poem, while others argue for alternative genres such as heroic elegy, heroic romance, or even a hybrid form that defies easy categorization.

   B. Arguments supporting Beowulf as an epic poem

      Proponents of the epic poem classification emphasize Beowulf's adherence to the conventions of epic poetry, including its portrayal of a heroic protagonist, its focus on grand themes, and its incorporation of supernatural elements. They argue that Beowulf's structure, language, and narrative scope align with established characteristics of the epic genre.

   C. Arguments supporting alternative genres for Beowulf

      Those who propose alternative genres for Beowulf often highlight specific features or stylistic elements that deviate from traditional epic poetry. They point to the elegiac tone, the emphasis on individual heroism rather than communal heroism, and the fusion of pagan and Christian elements as evidence for considering different genres such as heroic elegy or heroic romance.

   D. Comparisons with other works of literature to further contextualize the debate

      To better contextualize the debate on Beowulf's genre, scholars draw comparisons with other works of literature from various cultures and time periods. By examining the structural, thematic, and stylistic similarities and differences between Beowulf and other texts, scholars aim to shed light on the poem's genre and its place within the broader literary landscape.

Historical Significance and Cultural Impact

   A. Discussion on the historical and cultural importance of Beowulf

      Beyond its genre classification, Beowulf holds immense historical and cultural significance. It offers a glimpse into the Anglo-Saxon world, providing valuable insights into their beliefs, customs, and societal structures. The poem's portrayal of heroism, valor, and honor continues to resonate with readers, offering a window into the values cherished by ancient societies.

   B. Influence of Beowulf on subsequent works of literature

      Beowulf's impact extends beyond its own time period, influencing subsequent works of literature across different cultures. It has served as a source of inspiration for writers and poets, contributing to the development of heroic narratives and the evolution of literary traditions. The enduring legacy of Beowulf can be seen in the echoes of its themes, characters, and storytelling techniques in works ranging from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings to contemporary fantasy literature.

   C. Modern adaptations and reinterpretations of Beowulf across different media

      Beowulf's story has been reimagined and adapted numerous times in various forms of media. From film adaptations to graphic novels, these reinterpretations highlight the enduring appeal of the epic and its ability to resonate with contemporary audiences. These adaptations often offer fresh perspectives on the themes and characters of Beowulf, introducing new layers of interpretation and engaging with the poem's genre in innovative ways.

Conclusion

   A. Recap of the exploration into Beowulf's genre

      Throughout our exploration, we have delved into the genre of Beowulf, examining its characteristics, considering alternative classifications, and engaging with scholarly debates. The analysis has highlighted the multi-dimensional nature of Beowulf's genre and the various genres that can be associated with the poem.

   B. Emphasis on the multi-dimensional nature of Beowulf's literary identity

      Beowulf's literary identity defies easy categorization, as it encompasses elements of epic poetry, heroic literature, medieval romance, oral tradition, folklore, and tragedy. The poem's complex interplay of these genres contributes to its enduring appeal and the richness of its storytelling.

   C. Closing thoughts on the enduring relevance of Beowulf and its genre classification

      As we conclude our exploration of Beowulf's genre, we recognize that the poem's enduring relevance lies not solely in its genre classification but in its ability to captivate and inspire readers across generations. Beowulf's genre classification serves as a starting point for deeper engagement with the poem, encouraging us to appreciate its literary artistry, its historical significance, and its timeless exploration of the human condition.

What is Beowulf the book about?

   Beowulf, one of the oldest surviving works of literature in the English language, has captivated readers for centuries. Composed in Old English, this epic poem transports us to a world of heroism, valor, and mythical creatures. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to engage readers through its vivid storytelling, powerful themes, and exploration of the human condition.

   Beowulf is a legendary tale that follows the exploits of its eponymous hero, Beowulf, as he battles various adversaries to protect his people. Filled with larger-than-life characters, epic battles, and supernatural elements, the poem embodies the essence of heroic literature.

   To truly appreciate Beowulf, it is essential to understand its historical and cultural context. The poem was likely composed between the 8th and 11th centuries, during the Early Middle Ages, when oral tradition played a significant role in preserving stories and history. The events described in Beowulf take place in Scandinavia and provide valuable insights into the social structure, warrior culture, and beliefs of the time.

Background of Beowulf

   A. Origin and authorship

   The exact origin and authorship of Beowulf remain unknown. The poem was passed down through generations in the form of oral tradition before being written down by an unknown scribe. It is believed that the story itself may have even older roots, dating back to pre-Christian Germanic mythology.

   B. Historical and cultural context

   Beowulf reflects the historical and cultural context of early medieval Europe. It takes place in a time when tribal warfare was common, and societies were organized around the leadership of kings and the loyalty of warriors. The poem offers glimpses into the values, customs, and traditions of the Anglo-Saxon and Scandinavian peoples, emphasizing the importance of honor, loyalty, and the hero's role in society.

   C. Manuscript and preservation

   The only surviving copy of Beowulf is housed in the British Library in London. The manuscript, known as the Nowell Codex, was written in Old English and discovered in the 18th century. While the manuscript is damaged and incomplete, it remains a crucial artifact, preserving this ancient tale and allowing scholars to study and interpret its contents.

Synopsis of Beowulf

   A. Setting the stage: Geatland and Denmark

   Beowulf begins in Geatland, a kingdom in what is now modern-day Sweden. King Hrothgar of Denmark faces a relentless threat in the form of a monstrous creature named Grendel. Word of Hrothgar's plight reaches the ears of Beowulf, a Geatish warrior renowned for his strength and bravery.

   B. Introduction of the protagonist: Beowulf

   Beowulf, the poem's protagonist, sets sail for Denmark with a band of loyal warriors to aid Hrothgar. Upon arriving at Heorot, Hrothgar's magnificent mead hall, Beowulf introduces himself to the king and vows to defeat Grendel.

   C. Battle with Grendel: The first epic confrontation

   As night falls, Grendel arrives at Heorot and begins his savage attacks. However, Beowulf confronts the creature in a fierce battle. With his bare hands, Beowulf tears Grendel's arm from his body, forcing the creature to retreat. The victory is celebrated, but the threat is not yet over.

   D. Confrontation with Grendel's mother: A test of bravery

   Seeking revenge for her son's death, Grendel's mother, a powerful and vengeful creature, attacks Heorot. Beowulf ventures into her underwater lair and engages in a desperate battle. After a grueling fight, Beowulf emerges victorious, slaying Grendel's mother with a mystical sword.

   E. Return to Geatland and the reign of Beowulf

   Beowulf returns to Geatland, where he is hailed as a hero. He eventually becomes the king of the Geats, ruling wisely and valiantly for many years. The poem highlights Beowulf's exemplary leadership and his commitment to his people.

   F. The final battle with the dragon: Beowulf's ultimate challenge

   In the later years of Beowulf's reign, a dragon awakens and begins terrorizing the land. Beowulf, now an aging king, takes up the challenge to confront the dragon and protect his kingdom. In a fateful battle, Beowulf defeats the dragon but succumbs to his injuries.

Themes and Motifs in Beowulf

   A. Heroism and honor: The code of the warrior

   Beowulf embodies the ideals of heroism and honor, exemplifying the code of the warrior. He fearlessly faces formidable foes, risking his life to protect his people and earn glory. The poem explores the concept of heroism as a virtue and underscores the importance of upholding one's reputation.

   B. Fate and destiny: The role of providence

   Beowulf reflects a belief in the power of fate and destiny. Characters often attribute events to the will of higher powers, acknowledging the limited control humans have over their lives. The poem suggests that individuals must accept their predetermined paths, facing challenges with courage and determination.

   C. Good vs. Evil: The struggle between light and darkness

   A central theme in Beowulf is the timeless struggle between good and evil. Grendel and his mother symbolize the forces of darkness and chaos, while Beowulf represents the light of heroism and order. The conflict between these opposing forces serves as a moral framework for the poem, illustrating the triumph of good over evil.

   D. Loyalty and kinship: The importance of relationships

   Beowulf emphasizes the significance of loyalty and kinship in early medieval society. Beowulf's steadfast loyalty to his king and his comrades demonstrates the bonds of brotherhood and the obligations of the warrior class. The poem explores the complexities of these relationships and the consequences of betrayal.

   E. Mortality and legacy: Reflections on the human condition

   Beowulf grapples with the fragility of human existence and the inevitability of death. The poem contemplates the fleeting nature of life and the desire for immortality through heroic deeds and leaving a lasting legacy. Beowulf's final battle with the dragon highlights the fleeting nature of greatness and the inevitability of mortality.

Characters in Beowulf

   A. Beowulf: The fearless and noble hero

   Beowulf, the poem's protagonist, is a Geatish warrior of exceptional strength and courage. He possesses a noble and selfless nature, driven by a desire to protect his people and achieve everlasting fame. Beowulf's character embodies the idealized image of a hero in medieval literature.

   B. Hrothgar: The wise and respected king

   King Hrothgar of Denmark serves as a mentor figure and a symbol of wisdom and authority. He represents the ideal qualities of a king in the Anglo-Saxon culture, displaying generosity, wisdom, and strength of character. Hrothgar's struggles with Grendel and his subsequent gratitude towards Beowulf reveal his vulnerability as a leader.

   C. Grendel: The monstrous adversary

   Grendel, a descendant of Cain, is a monstrous creature driven by envy and rage. He represents the embodiment of evil and chaos, wreaking havoc on Hrothgar's kingdom. Grendel's character highlights the inherent darkness within humanity and serves as a foil to Beowulf's heroism.

   D. Grendel's mother: The vengeful and cunning foe

   Grendel's mother seeks revenge for her son's death, displaying cunning and determination. She represents a powerful and dangerous force, capable of challenging even the mightiest warriors. Grendel's mother adds depth to the poem's exploration of good and evil, testing Beowulf's bravery and resolve.

   E. Wiglaf: Beowulf's loyal comrade

   Wiglaf, one of Beowulf's loyal warriors, stands as a testament to the importance of loyalty and camaraderie. When Beowulf faces his final battle with the dragon, it is Wiglaf who remains by his side, demonstrating unwavering loyalty and courage. Wiglaf serves as a contrast to the themes of loyalty and kinship.

Significance and Impact of Beowulf

   A. Historical importance: Insights into early medieval culture

   Beowulf provides valuable insights into the early medieval period, shedding light on the values, customs, and social structure of the time. The poem offers a glimpse into the warrior culture, the role of kings, and the importance of oral tradition in preserving history.

   B. Literary influence: Shaping the genre of epic poetry

   Beowulf's influence on the literary world cannot be overstated. As one of the earliest and most significant works of English literature, it has shaped the genre of epic poetry. Its themes, characters, and narrative techniques have influenced countless subsequent works, inspiring authors and poets throughout the ages.

   C. Symbolic value: Archetypes and storytelling traditions

   Beowulf holds symbolic value as it incorporates archetypal characters, motifs, and storytelling traditions. The hero's journey, the battle of good vs. evil, and the quest for immortality are recurring themes found in mythologies and epics across different cultures. Beowulf adds to this rich tapestry of universal storytelling.

   D. Modern adaptations and interpretations

   Beowulf continues to be studied, analyzed, and adapted in various forms of media. Translations and scholarly interpretations allow contemporary readers to access the poem's content. Additionally, Beowulf has inspired numerous adaptations, including films, novels, and theatrical productions, keeping the story alive and relevant in modern times.

Conclusion

   A. A timeless masterpiece: Beowulf's enduring legacy

   Beowulf stands as a timeless masterpiece, celebrated for its captivating storytelling, powerful themes, and exploration of the human condition. Its enduring legacy lies in its ability to resonate with readers across centuries, transcending time and cultural boundaries.

   B. Appreciating the power of myth and storytelling

   Beowulf serves as a reminder of the enduring power of myth and storytelling in human culture. Through its characters, themes, and vivid imagery, the poem continues to engage and inspire readers, evoking emotions and provoking contemplation.

   C. Inspiring readers across generations

   The tale of Beowulf, with its heroism, moral dilemmas, and reflections on the human experience, continues to inspire readers across generations. Its exploration of universal themes and its ability to transport readers to a distant yet familiar world make it a literary treasure that will be cherished for ages to come.

Beowulf Abridged Poem for Schools and Colleges

Are you a student especially who is already in college and the Beowulf poem is a part of your English literature class? If your answer is “Yes” then you may want to read this book by Tony Chatterton. This book is written in an abridged version of the original epic poem which is a lot easier to understand.

Specifically, this abridged version is based on the two most recognized translations of the “Nowell Codex” manuscript. On this original manuscript of the Beowulf poem, there are a total of 3,000 lines that you have to read. Whereas, on this abridged version, you only get to read 1,775 lines which is great.

What’s really good about this book is that, it is intended for classroom activities. It actually contains detailed guide about every characters of the poem so as the history, summary and a simplified prose version.

Introduction about the Poem

On this abridged version of the epic Anglo-Saxon poem, reading it will take you into an ancient world where monsters and demons do still exists. The story flows in a subtle pace towards the intensifying savage actions of the hero’s victorious encounters with the most powerful creatures in the land of Spare Danes.

Beowulf is actually one among the oldest epic poem by the English Speakers where it portrayed the way how their forefathers live their lives in the ancient times. This also includes their love for war, adventure and slaying demonic creatures.

Since this abridged translation of the Beowulf poem has been written and catered for students, they would be able to take a full grasp of the poem by simply reading the “Introduction” part. It is also easy for readers to see what’s about to happen ahead.

The best part about this abridge version of the poem is that, majority of readers who made comparison to the original script claimed that this translation is the closest reproduction in the form of modern English that we use today.

Important Commentary that Every Readers Needs to Know

The opening of this Beowulf abridged poem has an important commentary that you need to know about.

This was about Hrothgar’s grandfather who had a name similar to our hero which was, Beowulf. It’s so strange to me about why the coincidence?

Anyway, for first-time readers, this might give them some confusion the reason why this aspect needs to be explained right from the beginning.

Thus, the first Danish character that goes by the name Beowulf isn’t the main character. The hero of the story with similar name was a Swedish Geat and he only appeared after the terrifying monster Grendel attacked the Mead Hall.

Conclusion

I already read this entire version of Beowulf abridge version and I can say that it is a masterpiece. Students who are required to learn this poem should consider adding this book on their reading materials. It’s because, it offers better clarity which is the key to a better understanding of the poem.


Moreover, have you already read this abridge version of the Beowulf poem? If you do then I am curious to know your own opinion about it. Feel free to share it on the comment form below.

Beowulf and Grendel Story for Children

The story of Beowulf may not be too appropriate for children because of so much violence involved. Aside from the violence, the old original English poem is quite hard for kids to read and understand.

Fortunately, it’s a huge thanks to all talented writers that we now have today for rewriting the story to a more friendly and suitable versions for young readers.

There are actually so many books today about Beowulf and his battles against monsters like Grendel and his mother catered for kids. But among all these books, I would like to recommend the version called, “Dover Children’s Classics” by Henrietta Elizabeth Marshall.

Reading this version of Beowulf’s story will take you into a gripping adventures where it features one highly decorated hero who can overcome the impossible odds. Almost any kind of stories that involves one powerful heroic character is actually very appealing to small children.

Beowulf was one legendary hero of the ancient past who conquered and defeated a lot of evil monsters that threatened the lives of mankind. But among those battles, three of the most exciting and entertaining battles are what’s featured on this book.

There will be so much fun and excitement as the story takes you into an intensifying clash between a mere human against monsters.

First, Beowulf faces an ogre like creature, “Grendel”. Second was Grendel’s mother. And third, was a gigantic flying dragon.

Aside from Beowulf’s foes, the story will feature how the Scandinavian lived their lives in the sixth century.

I bought this book for my children

My children loves to hear stories which I regularly deliver to them every weekend when they have no classes. I think that I already read to them every popular children stories out there. So I needed to find one unique story to tell and this was how I came across with this book about Beowulf.

There are a total of 10 chapters containing 5 pages each. So on every story-telling time, I read them just one chapter leaving them hanging about what’s going to happen next. It’s like watching your favorite drama series.

Unfortunately, my eldest child who is at his 10 years of age took the book and read it entirely. I am so surprised that he was able to read it and understood every aspects of the story. This made me realized that the vocabulary words used by the author isn’t really that too difficult for a kid to understand.

As for the rest of my children, I just let their eldest brother re-read the book and told them the entire story which they pretty much enjoyed it until the end.

Conclusion

As I stated above, there are many other versions of the story of Beowulf written in a manner that is acceptable for young children to read. It just happened that this story book that I first bought exceeded my expectation.

What I like most is how the author put all the story together using basic modern English words that children can easily read and understand without so much effort.


Have you already bought this book? You might want to tell us your experience too.

Beowulf 3 Battles Summary Comparison with the Movie

The 3D animated Beowulf movie released on 2007 do have some major differences in comparison to the original story written from the books. So on this post, let’s discuss these major differences particularly summaries of Beowulf’s last three epic battles.

There were three major battles against demonic monsters on Beowulf’s legacy. The first one was Grendel and his mother as the second. Third and Beowulf’s final battle was against a powerful dragon.

Both the 3D movie and the original story portrayed three similar characters fought by the mighty slayer. However, these evil beings do vary a lot in many aspects which we are about to cover them down below.

But before we go to that part, let’s have a brief discussion about their origin or where did they came from.

The animated movie had left their viewers with the question about the existence of Grendel and his mother. I guess, accepting the existence of monsters in the past might just be good enough.

In the book, Grendel and his mother were descendants of “Cain” who was the same character found in the Holy Bible. He was one of “Adam and Eve’s” sons who first committed the greatest sin where he murdered his brother “Abel”.

Grendel the First Monster

Beowulf actually faced already many or perhaps even countless numbers of monster on his adventures which makes Grendel not really the first one. Grendel just happened to be one of the main character featured on the story that Beowulf had slain.

In the 3D animated film, Grendel has this kind of “hyper sensitive hearing” which gives him too much discomfort especially with the loud noises caused by the villagers or residents of king Hrothgar’s kingdom. This was the reason why he went on a rampage attacking everyone from the Mead Hall.

On the other hand, the book described Grendel that he felt so much rage when he heard that Danes was having a celebration due to their military success.

How Grendel attacked the Mead Hall?

In the movie, Grendel attacked the Mead Hall two times. His first attack was a very brutal massacre. Bodies were tossed and easily ripped apart by the monster. There was even one women who got her head decapitated because she screamed so much in fear and she did it right in front of the demonic creature.

The rampaging monster only stopped when he was confronted by his biological father, king Hrothgar for a fight. He seem like, he got emotionally hurt by how his father treated him so he retreated crying like a baby.

Grendel’s second attack was now with the presence of Beowulf where they actually baited the creature into the Mead Hall. They turned the place into an arena where Beowulf managed to capture Grendel using the metal chain he got from the ceiling.

The troll-like creature almost able to escape but he got caught by Beowulf’s chain on his right arm and got stuck at the main door. There, the slayer intimidated Grendel so much and lost control of himself pushing the door too hard which ripped the monster’s right arm.

Grendel managed to escape with his right arm missing and went to his mother’s cave. Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to overcome the loss of his right arm where he finally rested in peace on the hands of his mom who had sworn to seek revenge.

Now on the book, Grendel do not have hypersensitive hearing ability and his physical appearance isn’t described. He was just referred as a “demon” and that’s all.

But there is one thing for sure, Grendel was probably a giant who possess inhuman strength. Because, on his first attack, he took 30 men back to his own lair for food.

Unlike in the movie, Grendel attacked Danes several times where he had a lot of victims. He even refused gold offered to him to stop his attacks. It was for this reason how he gained so much popularity around the world.

So Beowulf who was considered as the “bravest and wisest man” at that time heard about it, he got interested and immediately traveled to Heorot.

The battle between Beowulf and Grendel occurred in the late night. It was an intense battle similar to what the movie had portrayed. But the difference was, Beowulf managed to wrestle Grendel twisting his arm and tore it off. There, he finished the demonic creature and victorious.

By the way, king Hrothgar was not the father of Grendel from the original poem.

Second Battle is Between Beowulf and Grendel’s Mother

Let’s start from the animated movie.

Grendel’s mother was a “water demon” who was a reptilian creature with human form that look exactly like Angelina Jolie.

Due to the loss of his only son, Grendel’s mother attacked Beowulf’s men at the night of their sleep. All of them got killed by the demon except Beowulf and Wiglaf.

They were surprised about the attack until they figured it out through king Hrothgar who explained about the mother of Grendel.

So Beowulf along with Wiglaf traveled into the water demon’s cave. But, only the slayer went inside to face the monster.

Unfortunately, there was no battle that took place. Instead, the two had a deal and secret affair.

The battle between Beowulf and Grendel’s mother from the book is a lot more interesting.

Beowulf had ventured into the lair of Grendel’s mom which wasn’t a cave but a lake. There they fought one another so valiantly.

The sword that was given by Unferth was rendered useless because the creature’s hide was too thick for his weapon to cut or penetrate. Mysteriously, he found a giant magical sword nearby in which he used to slay the mother for good.

The Third and Beowulf’s Last Battle against the Dragon

Let’s start again from the movie.

The dragon was actually Beowulf and the water demon’s son just like Hrothgar and his son Grendel. Both of them actually did the same mistake where they had secret affair with the water demon.

Since Beowulf was now the king when the dragon appeared terrorizing his kingdom, he can actually just seek help to another younger adventurer who can slay the beast for him. But he did not, because he doesn’t want to repeat the same mistake as the previous king.

Thus, Beowulf fought the dragon at the top of the castle while saving his wife, Wealtheow and mistress, Ursula. He managed to cut the throat of the dragon and grabbed its heart out then they fell together at the rocky shore of the castle.

There, Beowulf with his last dying breath tried to tell the truth to Wiglaf about his secret. But, his friend refused to believe it. So there it goes, Beowulf finally died.

In the original poem, the dragon was not Beowulf’s son. It only came to attack Danes when a slave had stolen a jeweled cup from its lair.

Yes, the dragon’s lair was full of treasures and it was the main reason why Beowulf had decided to fight it and acquire the treasures. He actually intends to give these treasures as a form of payment to the king of Danes.

The dragon was no ordinary beast because it can breathe fire that can melt swords or any other weapons. Its blood was also poisonous which what caused the death of Beowulf.

Beowulf and his army had to travel on their way into the dragon’s lair where the battle took place.

Take note, Beowulf at this period of time was now 80 years old. He was an old man who fought a beast that was much fiercer than Grendel and his mother.

On their battle against the dragon, our hero got a fatal wound. Luckily, Wiglaf managed to sneak his way down at the dragon’s belly where he was able to impale that portion reducing the creature’s flames. Beowulf took this opportunity allowing him to deliver his finishing blow.

Before Beowulf died, he made an announcement that Wiglaf will take his place including the treasures.

Conclusion

Both the original poem and the animated movie do have good story plots that I did enjoyed. But when it comes to the battles, I prefer the original story because the hero portrayed did successfully slain his evil foes. While in the movie, he failed to defeat the mother where evil won at the end of the day.

5 Recommended Beowulf Books on Amazon

The original manuscript of the Beowulf poem is still in existence but the text is written in “Old English” literature which is hard for us to understand. Thanks to all those authors who wrote books in their own translations which makes it a lot much easier for us to fully understand the poem.

On this post, let us cover the five Beowulf books that are available from the Amazon which I best recommend for you to read. These books were written by their authors with the purpose of making the entire context understandable to the readers. Some of the books even used illustrations.

Seamus Heaney


What makes Heaney’s book interesting is that, it has the Old English version on it at the left side of the pages. Then on the right side is the modern English translation that is so very readable and easy to understand.

Each lines of the poems are listed in a group of ten on the left side margin of the pages. As a reader, you can easily make comparison between the original Old English version from Heaney’s own translation.

Anonymous


The Anonymous author has published a book that gave readers short and concise introduction about the important background events of the story. He also put emphasis on the timeline or dates to give the book some of its historical context.

To further help readers understand the whole plot of the story, there are outline of key themes and short explanation that helps the readers create their own perspective view of point. The author also provided his critical analysis and modern perspectives by the scholars.

Benedict Flynn


Flynn’s book or translation uses modern alliterative verse which is the same as the original Old English script. Thus, the translation is meant to be read aloud for the audience. It can also be used for theatrical play.

Michael Foreman


Story of Beowulf is not for children because it contains a lot of violence especially on the part where Grendel is portrayed as a monster that eats human flesh. However, the story is still quite interesting for young audiences to hear. Thanks to Foreman’s own translation where he wrote a version that is perfectly suitable for children.

The real author’s name is “Michael Morpurgo” who already wrote a lot of books and won so many awards. Some of his books are even turned into films.

Dover Thrift Editions


If you are studying literature or you simply prefer the original version of the poem in its Old English form then this Dover Thrift Editions would be the book that is right for you. This isn’t a book for children or someone who is new to the story. It is more intended for scholars with an attempt to discover and extract historical facts from the poem.

Short Summary

If you are looking for Beowulf’s book to read for your children then I recommend the book authored Foreman. Heaney, Anonymous and Flynn are best for adults. While for those who has good knowledge in the Old English literature, you may want to choose the Dover Thrift Editions.

Beowulf a New Verse Translation by Seamus Heaney

Beowulf’s original poem can be quite hard for non-scholars to understand. Perhaps, this was the reason why it didn’t received so much appreciation in the past until modern authors published their own versions such as the “Beowulf a New Verse Translation – written by Seamus Heaney”.

On this post, let’s discuss a few comparison between the “2007 Beowulf” animated-film from Heaney’s New Verse of translation book. There is actually a huge deviation from what has been portrayed on the movie while Heaney’s own version is written in a way exactly as the original script.

The Beginning of Beowulf’s Adventure

Both version from the beginning of the plot are the same. “Spare Dane or Hearot kingdom” was being terrorized by a monster named, “Grendel”. Since nobody in the entire kingdom of “king Hrothgar” can stop the demonic beast, one mighty Scandinavian hero came to their own rescue.

I guess, all other versions from the books including movies do have the same scenarios from the beginning where the brave adventurer faces Grendel and was able to slain it. Perhaps, the major differences is how Beowulf dealt with the monster which I guess based according to every authors’ own imagination.

The Mother of Grendel

Heaney’s version now came different from the 2007 Beowulf movie in terms of Grendel’s mother. The film features a giant golden snake with an alternative human form that “look-like Angelina Jolie”. And, the movie ended where the hero failed to slain her. But in Heaney’s book, Beowulf killed Grendel’s mother as well.

What I really do not like about the movie is that, the evil won where the water serpent demon seem to have continued sending terrors into the land of Hearot because no one can stop her.

The Dragon Creature

In the book, Beowulf went back to his own homeland and there he aged old. However, his adventure never stopped where he confronted one large powerful dragon. The dragon creature was the last monster that he confronted then later died due to his old age.

While in the movie, Beowulf never went back home but he became the next king or he succeeded king Hrothgar’s throne. There, he aged old where a large dragon suddenly attacked his castle. Since he was the only one who was still brave enough to face the flying creature, he went riding and hanging on the dragon until he was able to rip its heart out. Unfortunately, he died from the great fall along with the dragon when they both fell from the top of the castle.

Beowulf’s death from the movie sounds more like heroic because he died in a battle. Most warriors and adventurers actually seeks such kind of death. Of course, I also liked the Heaney’s ending where the hero got exhausted dealing against a lot of monsters on his adventures and died from his old age. This shows that he was an unbeatable hero of his own time.



Moreover, if you enjoyed watching the 2007 Beowulf movie then I also recommend that you should read Seamus Heaney’s book. His version is the best among all other books with good clarity and understandable translation that I ever read.