This document provides an overview of medieval English literature, focusing on Beowulf. It discusses how Beowulf is an Old English epic poem from the 8th-11th century composed of two parts. The poem features a Geatish hero named Beowulf who battles Grendel, Grendel's mother, and a dragon to defend the Danes. The document also provides context on Old English language and poetry during this time period.

1. Medieval English Literature

5. Old English HWÆT, we gar dena in gear dagum , þeod cyninga þrym gefrunon, hu ða æþelingas ellen fremedon! LO, we, of spear -armed Danes, in days long sped praise of the prowess of people - kings have heard, and what honor the athelings won!

6. Old English poetry HWÆT, we g ardena in g earda g um, þ eodcyninga þ rym gefrunon, hu ða æ þelingas e llen frem e don!