What is the exposition in Beowulf?
A story's exposition presents the characters, the environment, and the dramatic circumstance. "Beowulf" is an epic narrative poem in which the hero, Beowulf, overcomes the monster, Grendel. The poem introduces Grendel's past and the scenario that brings the two together in the exposition. It also reveals Beowulf's mission on behalf of a prince and his people, as well as his own courage and strength. The word "exposition" comes from the Latin exposuisti, meaning "to lay open". In literature, it means "the telling of something new or additional information about someone or something". The term can also refer to what is revealed through dialogue rather than description. This includes things such as character traits or relationships. The exposition should reveal aspects of the story not evident from merely reading the title or opening lines of the work. In screenwriting, the exposition is one of the first elements included in any story treatment. It provides context for what will follow and helps the writer understand the forces at play in the drama. The exposition may include a summary of relevant history, descriptions of key locations and characters, and explanations of why these things are important to the story. In novels, the exposition usually occurs early in the text, before the action begins. In short stories, however, the exposition can be used throughout the piece.