Beowulf: Dragon Slayer is an exciting tale of heroism, courage, and faith. While written for young readers, it includes battles, monsters, and instances of character death. Parents are encouraged to read along with their children and use the story as a springboard for discussions about courage, virtue, and living a faithful life.

Note to Parents: Due to the young ages of grade school students, we expect that you will accompany your child at all times while he or she is online, which includes attending live classes alongside your student. This will also help you assist your student with homework where necessary or help your student contact the teacher with questions. If you miss a live class, make sure to watch the recording with your student as well. Thank you for your support!

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Class 1: Meet the Author + Begin the Hero’s Journey

Virtue of the Hero: Courage

Reading: Chapter 1

Goals:

• Introduce Rosemary Sutcliff

• Discuss what makes a hero—especially in the Christian faith

• Explore the world of ancient stories
  

Class 2: Beowulf’s World & Setting

Virtue of the Hero: Faith
Reading: Chapter 2

Goals:

• Understand the setting: Geats, Danes, mead-halls, epic storytelling

• Reflect on how faith helps us face the unknown
  

Class 3: The Shadow of Grendel

Virtue of the Hero: Strength (Moral & Spiritual)
Reading: Chapter 3

Goals:

• Explore suspense and the approach of evil

• Understand good vs. evil through a Catholic worldview

Class 4: Beowulf Prepares for Battle

Virtue of the Hero: Humility
Reading: Chapter 4

Goals:

• Study Beowulf’s leadership, confidence, and humility

• Prepare for the major conflict
  

Class 5: The Battle with Grendel

Virtue of the Hero: Perseverance
Reading: Chapter 5

Goals:

• Explore conflict as the engine of story

• Identify perseverance in challenging moments
  

Class 6: Grendel’s Mother: The Second Challenge

Virtue of the Hero: Justice
Reading: Chapter 6

Goals:

• Compare Grendel and his mother

• Discuss why justice matters in God’s plan

Class 7: The Dragon Appears

Virtue of the Hero: Sacrifice
Reading: Chapters 7–8

Goals:

• Explore kingship, legacy, and self-giving love

• Connect Beowulf’s sacrifice to Christlike love
  

Class 8: Hero’s Crown & Celebration

Virtue of the Hero: Legacy of Virtue
Reading: Final Chapter + Review

Goals:

• Celebrate learning

• Reflect on how we can be Christ-centered heroes

• Share projects
  

Class 9: The Celebration Continues

• Share projects

• Copy of Beowulf: Dragon Slayer by Rosemary Sutcliff; ISBN 978-0-141-36869-6 

• Notebook or journal for reflection

• Art supplies: paper, markers, colored pencils, cardstock

• Optional: Legos, craft materials for 3D projects

Homework for this course is designed to be meaningful, manageable, and engaging. Students should plan to spend approximately 1–2 hours per week outside of class. This typically includes reading one chapter (occasionally two), brief written or reflective responses, and a creative or hands-on activity connected to our weekly theme and virtue. Most projects are flexible in format and can be completed at the student’s pace, with many activities designed to feel more like exploration than traditional homework. Families are encouraged to participate in discussions, Scripture reflections, and celebration of final projects as part of the learning experience.

Fee: For all 9 classes: $127 if you register on or before July 15; $147 if you register after July 15. (Registration closes one week before the first day of class. After that date, registrations are not guaranteed. There is a $25 surcharge for late enrollments after the course is closed.)