ABSTRACT
The dynamic between Christian and pagan material within the poem is the subject of extensive discussion, as is the poem's date and provenance the text survives in a single eleventh-century manuscript. The poem focuses on the heroic deeds of its protagonist, Beowulf, a Geatish hero, in his three great struggles against monstrous foes. The happen in youth, with Beowulf defending the elderly Danish king Hrothgar against the assaults of Grendel and his mother; the final battle comes late in life when Beowulf, now king of the Geats, seeks to defend his people against an attacking dragon. Beowulf is speaking, describing his reception in the hall of Hrothgar, the Danish king. Hrothgar's daughter, Freawaru, is to be given in marriage to cement a peace agreement, but Beowulf is unconvinced that peace will be achieved, and allusions elsewhere in the poem confirm his suspicions to be correct.
