PLSHS Students Dive Into Beowulf in English Class, 9/2/2026

Old English, epic heroism, and legendary monsters made their way into Mr. Spangler's British English classroom this week as students at Papillion La Vista South High School began their study of Beowulf, one of literature's oldest surviving tales.

As students work through the epic poem, they're examining more than just the storyline of monsters and mead halls. Mr. Spangler is guiding them through the linguistic roots of Old English alongside a close analysis of character motivations, helping students understand why figures like Beowulf act as they do within the poem's heroic code and cultural context.

Studying a text as old and foundational as Beowulf gives high schoolers a window into the origins of English literature and the values — courage, loyalty, and honor — that have echoed through storytelling for centuries. Breaking down complex, archaic language also sharpens students' close-reading and analytical skills, preparing them for the more advanced literary study they'll encounter in future coursework.

By engaging with classic literature in a rigorous, thoughtful way, Papillion La Vista South High School continues to challenge students to think critically about the texts that have shaped literary tradition, connecting centuries-old storytelling to the skills they need today.