Hrothgar (an early form of ‘Roger’) was an early 6th century King of Denmark.

He had a large army and built a magnificent great hall called ‘Heorot’ for them.

When it was finished, they held a big party. All the noise disturbed a monster, called Grendel, who lived in a lake nearby.

Grendel killed thirty of the Hrothgar’s men that night. His attacks continued for the next twelve years.

A Prince of the Geats (from Southern Sweden), called Beowulf, heard of Hrothgar’s problem.

He took 14 brave thanes and travelled to Hrothgar’s court. There he boasted of his successes in battle, especially against sea monsters.

A Danish thane called Uneferth accused Beowulf of exaggerating, but King Hrothgar hoped he would be able to help him. He offered him lots of treasure to kill Grendel.

Later that night, when Grendel appeared, the Danes fled. Beowulf wrestled the monster alone and tore off its arm! The Danes then returned, singing Beowulf’s praises. There was a big party and he was given his reward.

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