Under the harsh tutelage of a father with no sense of mercy or human weakness, young Beowulf has grown to be a strong and skillful leader of men. But shame and guilt defeat him when a disastrous, ill-conceived raid leaves his closest comrades dead - marking Beowulf as a coward in his own mind, unworthy of life, praise, or the noble trappings of victory. Only a chance encounter with a reclusive Irish priest can convince the tormented warrior of the need to endure - propelling Beowulf toward ever greater perils and more terrifying enemies, as he attempts in vain to throw away a life he holds at no value...and builds a reputation as a fearless and indomitable champion in the process.