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The Story of Beowulf, Translated from Anglo-Saxon into Modern English Prose
"The Story of Beowulf, Translated from Anglo-Saxon into Modern English Prose" by Ernest J. B. Kirtlan is an epic poem translated into prose form, likely written in the early medieval period, around the time of the Anglo-Saxon culture. The work narrates the legendary deeds of Beowulf, a hero from the Geatish clan who travels to Denmark to aid King Hrothgar in combating the monster Grendel, delving into themes of heroism, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil. At the start of the narrative, the poem introduces the legendary history of the Spear-Danes, detailing the glory of their kings, particularly Scyld, who rises from humble beginnings to become a mighty ruler. After Scyld’s passing, the lineage of Danish kings is explored, culminating in Hrothgar, who builds a grand mead-hall called Heorot. However, their joy is dampened by the terror of Grendel, a monstrous creature who preys on Hrothgar’s warriors. This struggle of man against monster sets the stage for Beowulf’s impending quest as he hears of Grendel's reign of terror and decides to cross the sea with a band of warriors, ready to confront the beast and restore peace to the Danes.