The story begins with the kingdom of Herot being terrorized at night by the creature Grendel, who would kill thirty men as they slept. The king's warriors failed to defeat Grendel. Beowulf, a Geatish hero, arrived and volunteered to fight Grendel. That night, Grendel attacked but Beowulf was victorious in their battle. Grendel's mother then sought revenge, killing one of the king's men. Beowulf tracked her to a lake and defeated her in combat, winning his second battle against evil.