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Beowulf Study Guide

by Anonymous - Beowulf

Beowulf is an epic poem originally told in the Old English between the 8th and 11th centuries. Beowulf study guide contains literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

The poem begins with a brief genealogy of the Danes. Scyld Shefing was the first great king of the Danes, known for his ability to conquer enemies. Scyld becomes the great-grandfather of Hrothgar, the king of the Danes during the events of Beowulf. Hrothgar, like his ancestors before him, is a good king, and he wishes to celebrate his reign by building a grand hall called Heorot. Once the hall is finished, Hrothgar holds a large feast. The revelry attracts the attentions of the monster Grendel, who decides to attack during the night. In the morning, Hrothgar and his thanes discover the bloodshed and mourn the lost warriors. This begins Grendel's assault upon the Danes.

Twelve years pass. Eventually the news of Grendel's aggression on the…

Read the full Beowulf Summary

• Beowulf Summary
• About Beowulf
• Character List
• Summary and Analysis of Lines 1-193
• Summary and Analysis of Lines 194-709
• Summary and Analysis of Lines 710-915
• Summary and Analysis of Lines 916-1250
• Summary and Analysis of Lines 1251-1649
• Summary and Analysis of Lines 1650-1887
• Summary and Analysis of Lines 1888-2199
• Summary and Analysis of Lines 2200-2537
• Summary and Analysis of Lines 2538-2819
• Summary and Analysis of Lines 2820-3182
• Related Links on Beowulf
• Author of ClassicNote and Sources

• Beowulf: Essays
• Beowulf: E-Text
• Beowulf: Questions
• Beowulf: Purchase the Novel and Related Material
• Anonymous - Beowulf: Biography