In its latest major period undertaking, ITV has ordered 13-part epic drama Beowulf. Described as a re-imagining of one of literature’s greatest and most enduring heroes — and as a Western set in the Dark Ages — this incarnation of Beowulf is created by Strike Back‘s James Dormer and ITV Studios’ execs Tim Haines (Primeval) and Katie Newman (Primeval: New World).

The action series is set in the mythical Shieldlands, a place of spectacle and danger populated by both humans and fantastical creatures (which turns up in Dungeons & Dragons as Shield Lands). The set-up sees the titular Scandinavian warrior return to Heorot to pay his respects to the recently deceased Hrothgar — the man who raised him. But when the palace is attacked by the terrifying monster Grendel, Beowulf must hunt it down, winning favor with Heorot’s new female Thane, and the wider community, in the process. The series will follow Beowulf as he slowly reconnects with the idea of family and home. The creators promise an exploration of the notion of good and evil, and heroes and villians, along with battles, chases, raids and celebrations.

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