Beowulf (Modern English)

In 6th-century Scandinavia, a murderous monster named Grendel has been terrorizing the people of Denmark and eating King Hrothgar’s soldiers. In nearby Geatland, the mighty Prince Beowulf hears of the fate of the Danes at the hands of this ferocious monster. Gathering his best warriors, he resolves to cross the sea to Denmark in order to save Hrothgar and his people. He succeeds, and a grateful Hrothgar throws a feast in his honour, showering him with gifts.

Yet when Grendel’s mother — a swamp hag — comes seeking revenge, Beowful must defeat her too. Throwing himself into the murky swamp waters, he kills her with a giant-sized sword. Fifty years later, Beowulf now sits on the throne as King of the Geats.

When a huge dragon begins to unleash a reign of fiery terror upon the people of Geatland, the heroic King once more resolves to kill the beast. Having ruled in peace and prosperity for many decades, Beowulf — now much older but every bit as brave — must fight his fiercest battle yet. Ernest J.B. Kirtland’s epic Anglo-Saxon poem is translated into Modern English to bring this classic adventure tale into the 21st century.