Written in old English, Beowulf is the first surviving epic poem of its kind. Modern day scholars have no information about the author of the poem, nor when it was composed, though many believe it to have been written between 650-800. The earliest copy of the text still in existence (The Cotton Vitellius manuscript) was made in the late tenth or early eleventh century, and is part of a larger volume (The Nowell Codex) with other stories of mythical creatures. The author borrowed text, themes, and stories from many other sources. Beowulf has many direct allusions to Christianity, often citing God, but also incorporates many pagan practices and beliefs, such as sea-burials and yielding to...
Join Now to View Premium Content
GradeSaver provides access to 2368 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11018 literature essays, 2792 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.
