This document provides an introduction and background information about Beowulf, the oldest surviving epic poem in English. It discusses that Beowulf was written in Old English between 700-750 AD, depicting events in the early 6th century. The poem is set in Scandinavia and follows the hero Beowulf battling various monsters to protect the kingdom of Denmark's king Hrothgar. It also provides context about Anglo-Saxon society being warrior-based and focused on bravery, loyalty and success in battle.

1. Introduction to Beowulf British Literature Ms. Koroknay

2. Why study Beowulf ? It is considered the oldest piece of literature in the English language Involves common/universal themes we still see in literature today Example of epic poetry Written in Old English (basis for the English we speak today)

3. 300s B.C. Celts in Britain 55 B.C–A.D.409 Roman Occupation A.D. 449 Anglo-Saxon Invasion A.D.878 King Alfred against Danes A.D. 1066 Norman Invasion A.D. 400–699 Spread of Christianity Beowulf probably first created during 8th century- between 700-750, but depicts earlier time period early 6th century

4. Anglo-Saxon Society • Warrior-based society, led by strong warrior chief • “ Warfare was the order of the day” (between clans, tribes, and outside invaders) • Anglo-Saxon life was dominated by the need to protect the clan and home from enemies. • Fame and success were achieved through loyalty to a leader, and success was measured by gifts received from leaders.

5. What we don’t know… Who wrote Beowulf- Poet unknown…scholars think it was originally told by someone of pagan religion but recorded by a monk due to Christian elements present in the story. Exactly when it was written How much is based on truth (historical fact)

6. What we do know Written in Old English (basis for the English we speak today) Some characters actually existed Written down sometime during 11 th Century (1000s) Probably first created during 8 th century- Composed between 700-750, but depicts earlier time period…early 6th century.

7. How Beowulf was shared A scop is a storyteller • They memorized poems and stories and recited them in front of audiences. • The poems and stories changed as they were passed from generation to generation • The epic of Beowulf was finally written down in the eleventh century. • Beowulf came from earlier folktales describing monsters and dragons and brave warriors that were loyal to their heroic chiefs.

8. A little background… Beowulf is a Geat – a country that is now southern Sweden. • The beginning of the story takes place in Denmark in the kingdom of Hrothgar. • Grendel is a monster that has been terrorizing the Danish people (Hrothgar’s people). • Beowulf comes to kill Grendel to help Hrothgar (because backin the day Hrothgard helped Beowulf’s father, Edgetho)

9. Map of Europe today

10. Beowulf ’s Europe

11. Old English vs Modern English Old English "... alegdon tha tomiddes maerne theoden laeleth hiofende hlaford leofne ongunnon tha on beorge bael-fyra maest wigend weccan wudu-rec astah sweart ofer swiothole swogende leg wope bewunden" Modern English translation The sorrowing soldiers then laid the glorious prince, their dear lord, in the middle. Then on the hill the war-men began to light the greatest of funeral fires. The wood-smoke rose black above the flames, the noisy fire, mixed with sorrowful cries"

12. Works Consulted www.grammardoc.com https://schoolweb.dysart.org/TeacherSites/uploads/4073/2009-2010%20Webpage/Beowulf%20Introduction.pdf http://www.salem.k12.va.us/staff/lvent/Anglo%20Saxon%20Beowulf%20PPT%20for%20Careers.pdf Language of Literature Gr 11