1. The oldest known work of English literature.

2.  Although Beowulf is considered English literature it is not set in England  Germanic tribes invaded what is now known as England in the 5 th Century and brought their stories with them

5.  Seeks adventure, honor, glory, far and wide  The epic hero is legendary, tales of his bravery and deeds are well known  Possesses and performs superhuman strength, abilities, deeds of heroism – battles monsters, incomparable warrior  There is an element of the supernatural, monsters, dragons, etc.  Risks death to help others

6.  Beowulf is a hero who comes to the aid of people who are in jeopardy  He is from Geatland, which is present day Sweden

7.  The setting is pre-Christian past, but England was Christian by the time it was composed  Set in late 5 th early 6 th Century, circa 400-500 AD  Scholars believe it was composed circa 700- 900 AD, or between the 8 th and 10 th Centuries  Because of this there are elements of Christianity and paganism

8. Original Text of Beowulf – Old English

9.  Beowulf was transmitted and disseminated by word of mouth by being told, or sung  Scops (the Shaper in Grendel), sang the songs of heroes and were essentially entertainers of the time period

10.  Some things to consider:  Beowulf, the hero, depicted as a Christ like figure  Traits that were valued by the Anglo Saxons

11.  The epic has other distinctive features such as, literary devices and techniques  The epic is rich with alliteration, kennings, personification  The setting is vast in scope in that includes other nations  Major characters deliver lone speeches, ‘unlock their word hoards’  The universal theme of good vs. evil is evident