Here's why:
* Language: The poem is written in Old English, the language spoken in England from roughly the 5th to the 12th century. This is distinct from the languages spoken in Scandinavia during the period in which the story is set.
* Origin: While the story draws on Scandinavian mythology and folklore, the poem itself was written in England, likely during the 8th or 10th centuries.
* Cultural Context: Beowulf reflects the values and beliefs of Anglo-Saxon culture, rather than purely Scandinavian culture. It showcases themes like heroism, loyalty, and the struggle against evil, which were central to the Anglo-Saxon worldview.
Therefore, despite its Scandinavian setting, Beowulf is a prime example of the rich and varied tradition of Old English literature.