The Epic Poem Beowulf, by an unknown Anglo-Saxon author is about the courageous warrior named Beowulf. The poem describes events throughout Beowulf's life including many battles he fights with several monsters that threaten the lands that he was chosen to defend. The poem also contains several diversions, these diversions are short tales not directly related to Beowulf's tale but stories that provide insight on different aspects of Anglo-Saxon life. Beowulf was more than just a hero who defeated the monster and saved the people. He was humble, self- sacraficing, and noble. .
Grendle was a monster that was attacking the land of the Geats and killing the people. Many warriors had tried to defeat and kill this monster but all of them had ultimately failed and lost their lives. Beowulf, who at that time was a very acclaimed warrior throughout the land. Volunteered to come defend the land and kill the monster Grendle. Hrothgar, the king of the land, provided Beowulf with his sword that he loved deeply. Beowulf took this sword into battle with Grendle, but the weapon proved useless against the monster. Still Beowulf managed to defeat the monster. Hrothgar offered his sword to Beowulf permanently as a show of gratitude and appreciation. Beowulf still accepted the sword even though it was useless in battle.
Beowulf was more than just an accomplished warrior was. Years after defeating the monster Grendle he became king of the land of the Geats. Before Beowulf's reign the land was often disturbed by war and invading countries looking for power. When Beowulf took control of the throne the land experienced 50 years of peace and tranquility. At a time when war and death was common a period of peace this long was something unheard of. Beowulf was loved by all of his people and respected by all other rulers of the time. Beowulf's greatness from the battlefield carried on unto his ruling capabilities/.