* epic poetry

* hagiography / martyrology
* sermons
* Bible translation
* legal works
* chronicles
* Riddles (puzzle)
Beowulf - Old English Epic
Epic - long narrative poem that records, in grave and
stately language, the exploits of a hero who usually
embodies national ideals
A hero who challenges and overcomes a dangerous
monster
Unknown facts:
who wrote it
when exactly it was written
how much it is based on historical truth
Beowulf is 3,182 lines long, approximately
80 or 90 pages in book length, which
makes it the longest Old English poem. It is
the oldest surviving English epic.
Themes and important aspects:
good versus evil
sanctity of home
loyalty
Courage
Honour
self-sacrifice
wealth and treasure
religion: Christian and Pagan influence
fateheroism and heroic deeds