The poem now titled as Beowulf, written by an unidentified medieval scribe in Old English, may be the best literature of a time that has been forgotten by most of the modern world. Historians have dated this work to be written around 900 A.D. - 1000 A.D. Beowulf is a tale about a courageous hero/warrior whose bravery and loyalty to his country enable him to face fierce monsters and an evil that has descended from Cain. He is rewarded for his efforts by eventually becoming king. It is a time of kings, dragons, and guarded treasure. After reading Beowulf, it is easy to see where many modern fantasy books have come from. Even popular books, such as Lord of the Rings, by J. R. R. Tolkin, must have originated somehow from Beowulf. We get hints of this from the rings of power, evil dragons, and lost treasure. Beowulf is a great entertaining poem that is a stepping-stone for many authors and stories yet to be written.
             I can picture what it must have been like, long ago, to be gathered in a great hall, in some castle, and being told about Beowulf and his adventures, while dining on fabulous food. Being surrounded by knights, nobles, and kings, listening to the story as the story-teller plays his harp. A time for music and entertainment. It would be the equivalent to dinner and a movie now-a-days. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.
             Beowulf, a warrior, and hero of his community, has fought in many battles, and has proven himself as a super-human leader with the strength of many men. Listening to the rumors of his countrymen, he learns of an evil monster that is reeking havoc across the land in Heorot. Grendel, is his name, and Heorot was defenseless against his attacks. The monster continued his attacks for twelve years, killing many and putting fear into everyone in the city. The great king, who was kind to his people, could think of nothing to stop this fiend from killing his people. After Beowulf learns what has...