Beowulf (Morpurgo)

eowulf tells the story of a brave young warrior who travels across the sea to help King Hrothgar, whose great hall, Heorot, is being attacked by a fearsome monster called Grendel. Hrothgar’s people live in constant fear as Grendel strikes at night, snatching warriors and leaving the kingdom helpless. When Beowulf hears about their suffering, he decides to face the danger himself, hoping to bring peace back to the Danes.
Beowulf arrives with a small band of loyal soldiers, ready to prove his courage. He confronts Grendel in a fierce battle and later meets even greater challenges, including Grendel’s vengeful mother and, years later, a deadly dragon threatening his own homeland. Throughout the story, Beowulf shows bravery, loyalty, leadership, and the true spirit of a hero.

After reading the chapter 1 pages 11-31 with your KS2 class, you can immediately complete our high-quality comprehension questions, ready-made for Year 4 and 5 and created by a practising KS2 teacher in the UK.

Summary
In Chapter 1, the tale begins with the great mead-hall of Heorot, a place built by King Hrothgar for feasting, celebration, and singing. For many years it is filled with joy—until a terrifying monster named Grendel is disturbed by the noise. Driven by hatred and rage, Grendel attacks the hall at night, killing Hrothgar’s warriors and dragging their bodies away. The people are left helpless, and fear spreads through the land as no one can stop the creature’s repeated attacks.

News of this suffering travels across the sea to the land of the Geats, where the young warrior Beowulf hears of the Danes’ misery. Known for his courage and strength, he decides he cannot ignore their plight. With fourteen trusted companions, he sails to Denmark to offer his help. As the chapter ends, Beowulf arrives on the Danish coast, ready to face whatever danger awaits him.