Character List

Hrothgar The aging king of the Danes welcomes Beowulf’s assistance in facing the menace of Grendel. His sermon to Beowulf before the Geat champion’s departure is thematically important; his great mead-hall, Heorot, symbolizes the kingdom’s success, civilization, and joy. Wealhtheow Hrothgar’s queen welcomes Beowulf and is the embodiment of charm […]

Read more Character List

About Beowulf

The poem would have been performed for audiences at court or on the road as the scop (preferred pronunciation, “shop”) found audiences to support him. The scop would sing or chant the poem, rather than recite it, usually to the accompaniment of a harp. The scop’s audience was probably familiar […]

Read more About Beowulf

Poem Summary

Beowulf, a young warrior in Geatland (southwestern Sweden), comes to the Scyldings’ aid, bringing with him 14 of his finest men. Hrothgar once sheltered Beowulf’s father during a deadly feud, and the mighty Geat hopes to return the favor while enhancing his own reputation and gaining treasure for his king, […]

Read more Poem Summary