Beowulf, the first great work of English literature, is an epic heroic poem recounting the exploits of the legendary Geatish warrior Beowulf as he battles monsters and dragons. This Beowulf summary covers the key plot points and characters of the Old English classic:
- Anonymous 3,182-line poem composed in Old English around 8th-11th century
- Set in 6th century Scandinavia, featuring Danes and Geats (ancestors of Anglo-Saxons)
- Follows heroic warrior Beowulf as he fights monsters to save kingdoms
- Exemplifies epic poetry with formal language, supernatural foes, and good vs. evil themes