Beowulf is a heroic poem, telling the tale of events in early 6th century CE and is believed to have been composed between 700 and 750. The poem opens in Denmark, where King Hrothgar has a magnificent mead hall known as Heorot. The noise of merrymaking angers Grendel, an evil monster living in a nearby swamp and for 12 long years the creature terrorizes Heorot with nightly visits.
After learning of the Danes’ trouble, young Beowulf sets sail for Denmark and offers to rid Heorot of its monster. A long battle between brave Beowulf and the monster ensues; eventually, mortally wounded, Grendel returns to his swamp and dies. The next day is one of rejoicing in Heorot but as the warriors sleep that night, Grendel’s mother, another swamp monster, comes to avenge her son’s death. In the morning Beowulf dives into the lake to search for her. After a long struggle, Beowulf finally kills her with a sword.
The second part of the poem begins with Beowulf’s peaceful rule of 50 years. However, the calm ends when a fire-breathing dragon is provoked after a man steals from its treasure-filled lair. The creature begins ravaging Geatland, and the brave but aging Beowulf takes up his sword once again. The fight is long and terrible and it is only with the assistance of his brave and loyal kinsman Wiglaf, that Beowulf manages to kill the dragon. Sadly, Beowulf is mortally wounded and his people mourn his death.
Year 3 had a fantastic afternoon in Prep Forest School with Mr Dean, reenacting the tale of brave Beowulf. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed getting into character, the celebrations were noisy and fun and the battles long and wearisome! Thank you Mr Dean for a great afternoon, this is always a highlight for Year 3 children.
