[PDF] Beowulf: A Heroic Epic in Old English, Translated by Seamus Heaney

Beowulf is an epic poem from around 1000 CE, telling the story of the hero Beowulf, who goes on adventures like fighting a monster and a dragon. He becomes a famous hero and king, but eventually dies in a dragon fight.

The poem is written in Old English and was translated by Seamus Heaney, an Irish poet who won a prize for his translation.

About PDF

• Beowulf’s journey to Denmark: Beowulf, a prince of the Geats, travels to Denmark to help King Hrothgar, who is being terrorized by a monster named Grendel.
• Grendel’s defeat: Beowulf challenges Grendel to a fight and, despite Grendel’s size and strength, Beowulf manages to defeat and kill him.
• Beowulf’s return to Geatland: After Grendel’s defeat, Beowulf returns to his home country, the Geatish kingdom, where he becomes a renowned hero.
• Hygelac’s death and Beowulf’s rise to power: King Hygelac of the Geats dies in battle, and Beowulf becomes the new king. He ruled for 50 years and is loved and respected by his people.
• The dragon and Beowulf’s final battle: A dragon guarding a treasure hoard is awakened and begins to destroy the countryside. Beowulf vows to defeat the dragon singlehandedly, but he is badly wounded in the process. His friend Wiglaf helps him fight the dragon, and they eventually kill it, although Beowulf dies from his injuries.