Overview and Outcomes:

This is a 3 week + Writing Root using Beowulf by Michael Morpurgo and illustrated by Michael Foreman where children get an opportunity to discuss legends and the importance of heroic poetry in early European literature. They go on to create a number of varied written outcomes using the text as a starting point including recounts, formal letters, dialogue, descriptions, obituaries and writing their own epic, heroic narrative using various poetic devices. References will be made to the original manuscript throughout.

Synopsis of Text:

In fifth-century Denmark, a murderous monster stalks the night, and only the great prince of the Geats has the strength and courage to defeat him. Beowulf's terrifying quest to destroy Grendel, the foul fiend, a hideous sea-hag and a monstrous fire-dragon is the oldest surviving epic in British literature. Artfully retold and magnificently illustrated, this companion volume to Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is made instantly accessible to children by a formidable children's book partnership.

Text rationale:

This is a key text in Anglo-Saxon literature, which delves into the historical period with detail and provides children with a rich background knowledge of the time. Re-told by significant children’s author Michael Morpurgo, this is the oldest surviving epic in British literature and includes examples of old-English language which will inspire children’s own writing. The book also provides a companion to Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. 

Links and themes:

Classic fiction, narrative poetry, Denmark, Old English, monsters, dragons, bravery, intrigue, betrayal, loyalty

Date written: October 2018