Chapter 1 Summary

In Beowulf the Warrior, the title character travels to Denmark in order to confront a beast that has been plaguing the king there for twelve years. Having slaughtered the man-eating beast, Beowulf must then kill its mother before he can sail back to his home in Geatland. Having arrived there he rules his people peacefully for half a century before the coming of a fire-breathing dragon forces him into battle again. The dragon is killed but not before Beowulf is mortally wounded. He dies leaving his country without an heir.

Beowulf arrives unexpected to Denmark but when he explains his mission there he is welcomed with open arms and much celebration by Hrothgar. After the feasting while the other warriors, both Danish and Geat, slumber in Heorot, Hrothgar's grand hall Beowulf waits for the coming of Grendel. The monster, twelve feet tall and...