Reading Notes: Beowulf, Part A

Beowulf sailing to the lands of Hrothgar

(Photo by Wikipedia)

The people of Geats were warlike, just like the towns around them, Danes and Frisians. This was a dangerous time period to live in. There were evil monsters that lived on the land and sea. Tribes were constantly in battle. Geatsland was surrounded by forests that beasts live in. Their ruler was Hygelac.

Beowulf was Hygelac’s nephew. As a child he showed great strength that impressed his uncle. He grew to be lonely and people called him the Silent. Though he was strong he was very clumsy. When he became an adult he was put into training. The king held a feast for all the men. Beowulf was put at a special seat and men were jealous. They expressed their anger towards him sitting near the king and how he was playing favorites except one. An old man said he will one day be famous and known for his bravery. He was unaware of this conversation. He kept to himself.

The Wanderer came and sang a song about a beast named Grendel. Beowulf was completely taken by the story. He loved it. When the song was over he immediately stood up and announced that he was to find Grendel and kill him. The king stood and told him it was his time to prove himself.

They prepared for a week for Beowulf to take on this adventure. He wanted to go along but his uncle forced him to bring men with him. He selected 14. The king made a speech and Beowulf and the 14 men got onto the ship and headed out.

They saw monsters in the sea. They finally approached Daneland and as they thought they wre safe a storm approached. They almost didn’t make it, but Beowulf spotted and narrow entrance for them to get to. When they entered they were confronted by an old man with a spear. He was the Guardian.

Beowulf explained that he was a friend of Dane. After a short conversation the Guardian pointed to the path where Beowulf should follow. They anchored their ship and went on foot the rest of they way. They walked and walked until their legs almost gave out.

They finally got to King Herald’s castle. He knocked three times and Beowulf asked to see the king. Beowulf introduced himself and the king was excited to see him. It seems the king knew his father. He called his father his “war-brother” and “friend.” The king invited them in for a feast.

Beowulf began to brag and the king challenged his claims. The men began to fight. They were all angry because Beowulf went on to brag, but everyone knew they used to call him a “sluggard.” The king stood and stopped the arguing and lifted a a cup. He made a toast – for Beowulf to defeat Grendel.

The men all laid down to rest before the big day.

Bibliography. Strafford Riggs. Beowulf. Web Source.