Who is most likely to have been first compose the epic poem Beowulf?

The authorship of Beowulf is a mystery, and there's no definitive answer. However, scholars generally agree that it was likely composed by an anonymous Anglo-Saxon poet sometime between the 8th and 11th centuries.

Here's why:

* The poem's language: The poem is written in Old English, the language spoken in England from roughly the 5th to the 12th centuries.

* The poem's subject matter: Beowulf tells the story of a heroic warrior who defeats monsters and protects a kingdom. This theme is common in Anglo-Saxon literature.

* The poem's style: Beowulf is written in a highly stylized and poetic language, typical of Anglo-Saxon poetry.

While we don't know the exact author's identity, several theories exist. Some scholars believe that the poem was written by a court poet, while others suggest it was composed by a traveling bard.

Regardless of the author's identity, Beowulf is a masterpiece of Anglo-Saxon literature and provides valuable insight into the culture, beliefs, and values of the time.