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THE STORY OF BEOWULF
The Tale of Beowulf
PRINTED BY
HAZELL, WATSON AND VINEY, LD.,
LONDON AND AYLESBURY,
ENGLAND.
PRINTED BY
HAZELL, WATSON AND VINEY, LTD.,
LONDON AND AYLESBURY,
ENGLAND.
To
THE MEMORY OF
MY FATHER
To THE MEMORY OF MY DAD
NOTE AS TO USE OF APPENDIX
I have relegated to the Appendix all notes of any considerable length. The reader is advised to consult the Appendices wherever directed in the footnotes. He will then have a much clearer conception of the principal characters and events of the poem. [7]
I’ve placed all lengthy notes in the Appendix. The reader is encouraged to check the Appendices whenever mentioned in the footnotes. This will provide a much clearer understanding of the main characters and events of the poem. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
INTRODUCTION
‘Beowulf’
may rightly be pronounced
the great national epic of the Anglo-Saxon race. Not that it exalts the
race so much as that it presents the spirit of the Anglo-Saxon peoples,
the ideals and aims, the manners and customs, of our ancestors, and
that it does so in setting before us a great national hero. Beowulf
himself was not an Anglo-Saxon. He was a Geat-Dane; but he belonged to
that confraternity of nations that composed the Teutonic people. He
lived in [8]an heroic age, when the songs of the wandering
singers were of the great deeds of outstanding men. The absolute epic
of the English people has yet to be written. To some extent Arthur,
though a British King—that is to say, though he was King of the
Celtic British people, who were subsequently driven into the West, into
Cornwall and Wales and Strathclyde, by our Saxon ancestors—became
nationalized by our Anglo-Norman ancestors as a typical King of the
English people. He has become the epic King of the English in the
poetry of Tennyson. It is always a mystery to the writer that no
competent singer among us has ever laid hands upon our own Saxon hero,
King Alfred. It is sometimes said that there is nothing new under the
sun, that there is nothing left for the modern singer to sing about,
and that the realm of possible musical production is fast vanishing out
of view. Certainly this is not true of poetry. Both Alfred and Arthur
are waiting for the sympathetic voice that will tell forth to the world
the immortal splendour of [9]their personalities. And just as the
Anglo-Normans idealized Arthur as a hero-king of the English nation,
though he really fought against the English, so the Saxon singer of
Beowulf has idealized this Geatish chieftain, and in some way set him
forth as the idealized chieftain of the Teutonic race.
‘Beowulf’ is rightfully considered the great national epic of the Anglo-Saxon people. It doesn’t just glorify the race; it reflects the spirit of the Anglo-Saxon communities, their ideals and goals, as well as the traditions and customs of our ancestors, all centered around a prominent national hero. Beowulf himself wasn’t Anglo-Saxon; he was a Geat-Dane, but he was part of the group of nations that made up the Teutonic people. He lived in [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] an era of heroes when traveling bards sang of the great achievements of remarkable individuals. The ultimate epic of the English people has yet to be created. To some extent, Arthur, even though he was a British king—that is, he was the King of the Celtic British people who were later pushed into the West, into Cornwall, Wales, and Strathclyde, by our Saxon ancestors—was adopted by our Anglo-Norman ancestors as a typical king of the English people. He has become the legendary King of the English in Tennyson's poetry. It always surprises me that no skilled poet among us has ever chosen to portray our own Saxon hero, King Alfred. Some say that there’s nothing new under the sun, that there’s nothing left for modern artists to sing about, and that the possibilities for new musical creation are rapidly fading. Yet, this isn’t the case for poetry. Both Alfred and Arthur are waiting for a compassionate voice to share their timeless greatness with the world. Just as the Anglo-Normans romanticized Arthur as a hero-king of the English nation, despite his battles against the English, the Saxon bard of Beowulf has idealized this Geatish leader and in a way presented him as the perfect leader of the Teutonic race.
Beowulf is an Anglo-Saxon poem.—It consists of 3182 lines. It is written in the alliterative verse of our ancestors in the Anglo-Saxon tongue, which, though the mother-tongue of the English, is yet more difficult to read for the Englishman than Latin or Greek. One wonders whether any genuine Anglo-Saxon epic existed, and has been destroyed in the passing of the centuries. The curious feature about this poem is that it concerns a man who was not an Anglo-Saxon. Our poem is written in the West Saxon dialect. The original poem was probably in Northumbrian, and was translated into West Saxon during the period of literary efflorescence in the West Saxon Court. We do not know whether it was a translation or whether [10]it was original, though the latter is, I believe, the prevailing opinion. Arnold has put forth what may be called the missionary theory of its origin. He believes that both the choice of subject and the grade of culture may be connected with the missionary efforts of the English Church of those days to extend Christianity in Friesland and further east. ‘It does not seem improbable that it was in the interest of the spread of Christianity that the composer of Beowulf—perhaps a missioner, perhaps a layman attached to the mission—was attracted to the Scandinavian lands; that he resided there long enough to become thoroughly steeped in the folk-lore and local traditions; that he found the grand figure of Beowulf the Geat predominant in them; and that, weaving into an organic whole those which he found suitable to his own purpose, he composed an epic which, on his return home, must soon have become known to all the lovers of English song.’1 Dr. Sarrazin [11]thought this unknown poet might have been the famous Cynewulf. Arnold, chiefly on stylistic grounds, differs from this opinion. This is Arnold’s opinion: ‘Sagas, either in the Danish dialect or that of the Geats—more probably the latter—were current in the Scandinavian countries in the seventh century. Among these sagas, that of Beowulf the Geat must have had a prominent place; others celebrated Hygelac his uncle, Hnaef the Viking, the wars of the Danes and the Heathobards, of the Danes and the Swedes. About the end of the century missionaries from England are known to have been busy in Friesland and Denmark, endeavouring to convert the natives to Christianity. Some one of these, whose mind had a turn for literature and dwelt with joy upon the traditions of the past, collected or learnt by heart a number of these sagas, and, taking that of Beowulf as a basis, and weaving some others into his work, composed an epic poem to which, although it contains the record of those adventures, the heroic scale [12]of the figure who accomplishes them all imparts a real unifying epic interest.’ Whatever may be the truth as to its origin, there it lies in the British Museum in its unique MS. as a testimony to all ages of the genius of the Anglo-Saxon race.
Beowulf is an Anglo-Saxon poem.—It has 3,182 lines. It's written in the alliterative verse of our ancestors in the Anglo-Saxon language, which, despite being the mother tongue of English, is harder for English speakers to read than Latin or Greek. One wonders if there was any true Anglo-Saxon epic that existed and has been lost over the centuries. A curious aspect of this poem is that it tells the story of a man who wasn’t Anglo-Saxon. Our poem is written in the West Saxon dialect. The original poem was likely in Northumbrian and was translated into West Saxon during the period of cultural flourishing in the West Saxon Court. We don’t know if it was a translation or if [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] it was original, although the latter seems to be the common view. Arnold has proposed what could be called the missionary theory of its origin. He thinks both the choice of subject and the level of culture may be linked to the English Church's missionary efforts of that time to spread Christianity in Friesland and further east. “It doesn’t seem unlikely that it was in the interest of promoting Christianity that the creator of Beowulf—possibly a missionary or perhaps a layperson connected to the mission—was drawn to the Scandinavian lands; that he lived there long enough to deeply absorb the folklore and local traditions; that he found the great figure of Beowulf the Geat central to them; and that, mixing together those elements he found fitting for his own purpose, he crafted an epic that, upon his return home, quickly became known to all who loved English poetry.”1 Dr. Sarrazin [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] believed this unknown poet might have been the famous Cynewulf. Arnold, mainly for stylistic reasons, disagrees with this view. Arnold states: “Sagas, either in the Danish dialect or that of the Geats—more likely the latter—were prevalent in Scandinavia in the seventh century. Among these sagas, the story of Beowulf the Geat must have held a significant place; others celebrated Hygelac, his uncle, Hnaef the Viking, the conflicts of the Danes and Heathobards, and the Danes and Swedes. By the end of the century, missionaries from England are known to have been active in Friesland and Denmark, trying to convert the locals to Christianity. One of these missionaries, who had a literary inclination and delighted in the traditions of the past, collected or memorized several of these sagas, and, using that of Beowulf as a foundation and incorporating some others into his work, crafted an epic poem that, although it tells the story of those adventures, has the overall heroic scale [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] of the main character gives it a genuine unifying epic interest.” Regardless of the truth about its origin, it now exists in the British Museum in its unique manuscript as a testament to the genius of the Anglo-Saxon people.
Now it will be quite naturally asked, What do we learn from Beowulf of the genius and spirit of that race from which we are sprung?
Now it will be quite naturally asked, what do we learn from Beowulf about the genius and spirit of the race from which we come?
The one outstanding fact, as it appears to the writer, is the co-operative principle. And this principle stands in almost violent opposition to the ruling principle of the modern world, in which society is divided into a number of mutually opposite sections or classes, whose interests clash with fatal results to individual and corporate well-being. In this poem we see the whole community, from the King to the churl, bound by one common interest. King and chieftain and thane and churl freely intermingle and converse. They eat and drink and sleep under one common roof, or at least in one common enclosure. Tempora mutantur! but the idea of social [13]interaction and mutual interdependence never found more vivid or real expression than in the pictures presented in Beowulf of Hart, the Great Hall of Hrothgar, and in the Court and township of Hygelac, King of the Geats. In the Hall of Hart Hrothgar and his Queen and his courtiers sit at the high table on the dais, and the lower orders at the long table down the hall. The spears and shields adorn the walls. After the evening meal, the singer, or scop, as he is called, to the accompaniment of the harp, tells forth the deeds of some ancient feud, such as that of Finn and the Danes or the Fight at Finnsburgh, or the feud of the Danes and the Heathobards, in which Freawaru, Hrothgar’s daughter, and Ingeld figure so tragically. Then the benches are removed, and the rude beds are spread out on the floor of the Great Hall and they seek ‘evening rest.’ The whole is a picture of fraternal and paternal government. If Grendel, the Fen-monster, carries away one of their number, then there is weeping and lamentation. The King and [14]the Queen and the nobility and the commonalty are all concerned in the tragedy. The loss of one is the loss of all. When Aeschere is slain by Grendel’s mother Hrothgar thus bewails his loss: ‘Seek no more after joy; sorrow is renewed for the Danish folk. Aeschere is dead, he who was my wise counsellor and my adviser and my comrade in arms, when in time of war we defended ourselves; ... but now the hand lieth low which bestowed every kind of joy upon you.’ And in the end of the poem it is said of Beowulf that he was ‘most gentle to his folk.’ The King was king only ‘for his folk.’ The interest of his folk, their physical and moral well-being, was his chief solicitude.
The key point, as the writer sees it, is the principle of cooperation. This principle sharply contrasts with the dominant idea in today's world, where society is split into competing classes or groups, their interests often clashing with disastrous consequences for both individuals and the community. In this poem, we observe the entire community, from the King to the commoner, united by a shared interest. King, chieftains, thanes, and commoners freely interact and converse. They eat, drink, and sleep under the same roof, or at least within the same area. Tempora mutantur! but the concept of social [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] interaction and mutual dependence has never been more vividly or authentically portrayed than in the scenes depicted in Beowulf of Hart, Hrothgar’s Great Hall, and in the court and village of Hygelac, King of the Geats. In Hart's Hall, Hrothgar, his Queen, and his nobles sit at the high table on the dais, while the lower classes gather at the long table down the hall. Spears and shields adorn the walls. After dinner, the singer, or scop, as he is called, accompanies himself on the harp and recounts tales of ancient feuds, like that of Finn and the Danes or the battle at Finnsburgh, or the conflict between the Danes and the Heathobards, where Freawaru, Hrothgar's daughter, and Ingeld play tragic roles. Then the benches are cleared, and makeshift beds are laid out on the floor of the Great Hall as they prepare for 'evening rest.' It paints a picture of fraternal and paternal governance. If Grendel, the monster from the marsh, takes one of their own, there is weeping and mourning. The King, the Queen, the nobility, and the common people all share in the tragedy. The loss of one affects them all. When Aeschere is killed by Grendel’s mother, Hrothgar laments his death: ‘Seek no more after joy; sorrow is renewed for the Danish folk. Aeschere is dead, he who was my wise advisor, my counsel, and my comrade in arms, when in times of war we defended ourselves; ... but now the hand that brought you every kind of joy lies low.’ And at the end of the poem, it is said of Beowulf that he was ‘most gentle to his people.’ The King was king only ‘for his people.’ The well-being, both physical and moral, of his people was his primary concern.
2. But not only was this so within any one nation or tribe, but there was a sense of comradeship and mutual responsibility among those of various tribes and nations. When Beowulf the Geat hears in Gautland of the raids of Grendel upon Hart, he commands his folk to make ready a boat that he may fare across the sea to the help of Hrothgar, [15]because ‘he was lacking in warriors.’ Beowulf’s whole mission in Hart was the discharge of a solemn obligation of help from the strong to the weak. He announces to Hrothgar that he is come ‘to cleanse Hart of ill,’ and this he feels he must do. ‘Woe is me if I preach not the gospel!’ cried St. Paul. ‘Woe is me if I help not the weak and cleanse not the demon-infested palace of my kinsman!’ cried Beowulf. ‘Weird goes as he willeth’; that is, Fate must be submitted to. And Fate hath willed that he should help the weak and ‘cleanse the ill.’
2. But this wasn’t just true within a single nation or tribe; there was also a sense of camaraderie and mutual responsibility among people from different tribes and nations. When Beowulf the Geat hears in Gautland about Grendel’s attacks on Hart, he tells his people to prepare a boat so he can cross the sea to help Hrothgar, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]because ‘he didn’t have enough warriors.’ Beowulf’s entire mission in Hart was to fulfill a serious obligation to help the weak. He tells Hrothgar that he has come ‘to cleanse Hart of evil,’ and he feels he must do this. ‘Woe is me if I don’t preach the gospel!’ cried St. Paul. ‘Woe is me if I don’t help the weak and cleanse my kinsman’s demon-infested palace!’ cried Beowulf. ‘Fate goes as it wills’; in other words, Fate must be accepted. And Fate has decided that he should help the weak and ‘cleanse the evil.’
3. Then there is the tremendous sense of loyalty on the part of the folk to their king or chieftain. The idea of the ‘Comitatus’ bound the folk to their leaders. Nothing more disgraceful could be conceived than the desertion of the leader. Terrible were the reproaches hurled at the trembling cowards who had hurried away into the woods, to save their own skins, whilst their King Beowulf wrestled with the dragon, the enemy of the people. ‘Yea, death is better for any [16]earl than a life of reproach.’ Loyalty, a passionate loyalty to the King, was the greatest of virtues, and disloyalty and cowardice the greatest of vices. Society was an organic whole, bound together by the bands of loyalty and devotion to the common good.
3. Then there’s the deep sense of loyalty among the people to their king or chieftain. The idea of the ‘Comitatus’ connected the people to their leaders. Nothing could be more disgraceful than abandoning their leader. The harsh criticisms directed at the frightened cowards who fled into the woods to save themselves while their King Beowulf fought the dragon, the enemy of the people, were terrible. ‘Yes, death is better for any [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]earl than a life filled with shame.’ Loyalty, a passionate loyalty to the King, was the highest virtue, and disloyalty and cowardice were the worst vices. Society was a unified whole, held together by the bonds of loyalty and commitment to the common good.
4. There is, too, the fatalistic note heard all through the poem. Beowulf feels himself hard pressed by Fate. The Anglo-Saxon called Fate by the name ‘Weird,’ which has survived in modern English in the sense of something strange and mysterious. Weird was the God, or Goddess of Fate. Again and again in the poem we hear the solemn, minor, dirge-like refrain, ‘Weird hath willed it’; ‘Goeth Weird as she willeth’ (chapter VI. p. 44). There is this perpetual overshadowing and almost crushing sense of some inscrutable and irresistible power that wieldeth all things and disposeth all things, which is, I believe, a pre-eminent characteristic of the Anglo-Saxon race, and accounts for the dare-devil courage of her sons upon the battle-field or on the high seas. We [17]find it, too, in its morally less attractive form in the recrudescent pessimism of modern literature. Thomas Hardy is the lineal descendant in literature of the author of Beowulf when he says: ‘Thus the President of the Immortals had finished his sport with poor Tess.’2
4. There’s also a fatalistic tone throughout the poem. Beowulf feels pressured by Fate. The Anglo-Saxons referred to Fate as ‘Weird,’ a term that has survived in modern English to mean something strange and mysterious. Weird was the God or Goddess of Fate. Again and again in the poem, we hear the solemn, somber refrain, ‘Weird hath willed it’; ‘Goeth Weird as she willeth’ (chapter VI. p. 44). There’s this constant overshadowing and almost overwhelming sense of some unknowable and unstoppable force that controls everything and arranges everything, which I believe is a key trait of the Anglo-Saxon people and explains the fearless courage of her sons in battle or at sea. We [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]find it, too, in its less appealing form in the revival of pessimism in modern literature. Thomas Hardy is the literary descendant of the author of Beowulf when he writes: ‘Thus the President of the Immortals had finished his sport with poor Tess.’2
5. And closely allied to this sense of Destiny is the sombre view of life that is characteristic of the Teutonic peoples. There is none of that passionate joy in beauty and in love that we find in the Celtic literature. Life is a serious thing in Beowulf and with us of the Anglo-Saxon race. The scenery of Beowulf is massive and threatening and mist-encircled. Angry seas are boiling and surging and breaking at the foot of lofty and precipitous cliffs. Above the edge of the cliffs stretch mysterious and gloomy moorlands, and treacherous bogs and dense forests inhabited by malignant and powerful spirits, the foes of humanity. In a land like this there is no time for love-making. Eating, drinking, sleeping, fighting there make [18]up the business of life. It is to the Celtic inflow that we owe the addition of love in our modern literature. The composer of Beowulf could not have conceived the Arthur Saga or the Tristram love-legend. These things belong to a later age, when Celtic and Teutonic elements were fused in the Anglo-Norman race. But we still find in our literature the sombre hues. And, after all, it is in the forest of sorrow and pain that we discover the most beautiful flowers and the subtlest perfumes.
5. Closely related to this sense of Destiny is the dark view of life that is typical of the Teutonic peoples. There's none of that passionate joy in beauty and love that we see in Celtic literature. Life is serious in Beowulf and among us of the Anglo-Saxon race. The landscape in Beowulf is massive, threatening, and shrouded in mist. Angry seas are boiling, surging, and crashing against steep cliffs. Above the cliffs stretch mysterious, gloomy moors, treacherous swamps, and dense forests inhabited by malicious and powerful spirits who oppose humanity. In a land like this, there's no time for romance. Eating, drinking, sleeping, and fighting make up the essence of life. We owe the addition of love in our modern literature to the Celtic influence. The composer of Beowulf couldn't have imagined the Arthur Saga or the Tristram love legend. These belong to a later time when Celtic and Teutonic elements merged in the Anglo-Norman race. Yet, we still find those dark tones in our literature. Ultimately, it's in the forest of sorrow and pain that we discover the most beautiful flowers and the subtlest fragrances.
I desire to express my indebtedness to A. J. Wyatt and William Morris for their translations; to A. J. Wyatt for his edition of the poem in the original; to Thomas Arnold for his terse and most informing work on Beowulf; to the authors of articles in the Encyclopaedia Britannica and in Chambers’s Encyclopaedia and The Cambridge History of English Literature.
I want to thank A. J. Wyatt and William Morris for their translations; A. J. Wyatt for his edition of the poem in its original form; Thomas Arnold for his concise and insightful work on Beowulf; and the authors of articles in the Encyclopaedia Britannica, Chambers’s Encyclopaedia, and The Cambridge History of English Literature.
Ernest J. B. Kirtlan.
Ernest J. B. Kirtlan.
Brighton,
November, 1913. [19]
Brighton,
November, 1913. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
The Story of Beowulf
I
The Prelude
Now we have
heard, by inquiry, of the glory of the kings of the people, they of the
Spear-Danes, how the Athelings were doing deeds of courage.1
Full often Scyld, the son of Scef, with troops of warriors, withheld
the drinking-stools from many a tribe. This earl caused terror when at
[20]first he was found in a miserable case. Afterwards
he gave help when he grew up under the welkin, and worshipfully he
flourished until all his neighbours over the sea gave him obedience,
and yielded him tribute. He was a good king. In after-time there was
born to him a son in the Court, whom God sent thither as a saviour of
the people. He saw the dire distress that they formerly suffered when
for a long while they were without a prince. Then it was that the Lord
of Life, the Wielder of glory, gave to him glory. Famous was
Beowulf.2 Far and wide spread his fame. Heir was he of Scyld
in the land of the Danes. Thus should a young man be doing good deeds,
with rich gifts to the friends of his father, so that in later days,
when war shall come upon them, boon companions may stand at his side,
helping their liege lord. For in all nations, by praiseworthy deeds,
shall a man be thriving.
Now we've heard, through inquiry, about the glory of the kings of the Spear-Danes, how the Athelings were performing brave deeds.1 Often, Scyld, the son of Scef, kept the drinking stools from many tribes with his warriors. This earl instilled terror when he was first discovered in a desperate situation. Later on, he provided help as he grew up under the sky, and he thrived honorably until all his neighbors across the sea obeyed him and paid him tribute. He was a good king. Eventually, a son was born to him in the Court, whom God sent as a savior for the people. He witnessed the severe trouble they faced when they were long without a leader. That was when the Lord of Life, the Wielder of glory, granted him honor. Beowulf was famous.2 His fame spread far and wide. Heir to Scyld in the land of the Danes, a young man should perform good deeds, gifting generously to his father's friends, so that when war comes, loyal companions will stand by his side, aiding their lord. In all nations, a man will prosper through praiseworthy deeds.
At the fated hour Scyld passed away, very vigorous in spirit, to the keeping [21]of his Lord. Then his pleasant companions carried him down to the ocean flood, as he himself had bidden them, whilst the friend of the Scyldings was wielding words, he who as the dear Lord of the Land had ruled it a long time. And there, in the haven, stood the ship, with rings at the prow, icy, and eager for the journey, the ferry of the Atheling.
At the destined hour, Scyld passed away, still strong in spirit, into the care of his Lord. Then his loyal companions took him down to the sea, just as he had instructed them, while the friend of the Scyldings spoke of his achievements, he who had long been the beloved Lord of the Land. And there, in the harbor, stood the ship, with rings on the bow, cold and ready for the journey, the vessel of the Atheling.
Then they laid down their dear Lord the giver of rings, the famous man, on the bosom of the ship, close to the mast, where were heaps of treasures, armour trappings that had been brought from far ways. Never heard I of a comelier ship, decked out with battle-weapons and weeds of war, with swords and byrnies. In his bosom they laid many a treasure when he was going on a far journey, into the power of the sea. Nor did they provide for him less of booty and of national treasures than they had done, who at the first had sent him forth, all alone o’er the waves, when he was but a child. Then moreover they set a golden standard high o’er his head, and let the sea take him, and gave [22]all to the man of the sea. Full sad were their minds, and all sorrowing were they. No man can say soothly, no, not any hall-ruler, nor hero under heaven, who took in that lading.3
Then they laid their beloved Lord, the giver of rings, the famous man, on the deck of the ship, near the mast, where there were piles of treasures and armor that had been brought from afar. I've never heard of a more beautiful ship, adorned with battle gear and war decorations, with swords and chainmail. In his embrace, they placed many treasures for his long journey into the depths of the sea. They didn’t provide him with any less loot or national treasures than those who had originally sent him out, all alone across the waves when he was just a child. Then, they raised a golden standard high above his head, let the sea take him, and gave [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] everything to the man of the sea. Their hearts were heavy, and they were all grieving. No one can truly say, not even any hall-ruler or hero under heaven, who received that cargo.3
[23]
[__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
1 See Appendix II. ↑
1 Check out __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__
II
The Story
I
Moreover the
Danish Beowulf,1 the dear King of his people, was a long time
renowned amongst the folk in the cities (his father, the Prince, had
gone a-faring elsewhere from this world). Then was there born to him a
son, the high Healfdene; and while he lived he was ruling the happy
Danish people, and war-fierce and ancient was he. Four children were
[24]born to him: Heorogar the leader of troops, and
Hrothgar, and Halga the good. And I heard say that Queen Elan (wife of
Ongentheow) was his daughter, and she became the beloved comrade of the
Swede. Then to Hrothgar was granted good speed in warfare and honour in
fighting, so that his loyal subjects eagerly obeyed him, until the
youths grew doughty, a very great band of warriors. Then it burned in
his mind that he would bid men be building a palace, a greater
mead-hall than the children of men ever had heard of, and that he would
therein distribute to young and to old, as God gave him power, all the
wealth that he had save the share of the folk and the lives of men.
Also, the Danish Beowulf, the beloved King of his people, was long celebrated among the folks in the towns (his father, the Prince, had passed away). Then a son was born to him, the noble Healfdene; during his life, he ruled the joyful Danish people, and he was fierce in battle and wise. He had four children: Heorogar, the leader of troops, Hrothgar, and Halga the good. I also heard that Queen Elan (the wife of Ongentheow) was his daughter, and she became the cherished companion of the Swede. Hrothgar was granted success in war and honor in battle, so his loyal subjects gladly followed him, until the young warriors grew strong, forming a very formidable group. Then it sparked in his mind that he would order men to build a palace, a mead-hall greater than any that the children of men had ever heard of, where he would share all the wealth he had with the young and old, as God gave him the power, except for the people's share and the lives of men.
Then I heard far and wide how he gave commandment to many a people throughout all the world, this work to be doing, and to deck out the folkstead. In due time it happened that soon among men, this greatest of halls was now all ready. And Hart he called it, whose word had great wielding. He broke [25]not his promise, but gave to them rings and treasures at the banquet. The hall towered on high, and the gables were wide between the horns,2 and awaited the surging of the loathsome flames. Not long time should pass ere hatred was awakened after the battle-slaughter, twixt father-in-law and son-in-law.3
Then I heard from all around how he commanded many people throughout the world to do this work and to decorate the community. In due time, it happened that among men, this greatest of halls was all ready. He called it Hart, whose word held great power. He kept his promise and gave them rings and treasures at the banquet. The hall towered high, and the gables were wide between the horns, and awaited the surge of the loathsome flames. It wouldn’t be long before hatred was stirred up after the battle slaughter, between father-in-law and son-in-law.
Then it was that the powerful sprite who abode in darkness, scarce could brook for a while that daily he heard loud joy in the hall. There was sound of harping, and the clear song of the bard.
Then it was that the powerful spirit who lived in darkness could hardly stand hearing the loud joy in the hall every day. There was the sound of harp music and the clear singing of the bard.
He who knew it was telling of the beginning of mankind, and he said that the Almighty created the world, and the bright fields surrounded by water. And, exulting, He set the sun and the moon as lamps to shine upon the earth-dwellers, and adorned the world with branches and leaves. And life He was giving to every kind of living creature. So noble men lived in joy, and were all blessed till one began to do evil, a devil [26]from hell; and this grim spirit was called Grendel. And he was a march-stepper, who ruled on the moorlands, the fens, and the stronghold. For a while he kept guard, this unhappy creature, over the land of the race of monsters, since the Creator had proscribed him. On the race of Cain the Eternal Lord brought death as vengeance, when he slew Abel. Nor did he find joy in the feud, but God for the crime drove him far thence. Thus it was that evil things came to their birth, giants and elves and monsters of the deep, likewise those giants who for a long while were striving with God Himself. And well He requited them.
He who knew it was sharing the story of the beginning of humanity, and he said that the Almighty created the world and the bright fields surrounded by water. And, filled with joy, He placed the sun and the moon as lights to shine on the people of the earth and decorated the world with branches and leaves. He gave life to every kind of living creature. Noble men lived in happiness and were all blessed until one began to do wrong, a devil [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] from hell; and this dark spirit was named Grendel. He was a wanderer, who ruled over the moorlands, the marshes, and the fortress. For a time, this wretched creature kept watch over the land of monsters, since the Creator had cast him out. Upon the descendants of Cain, the Eternal Lord brought death as punishment when he killed Abel. He found no joy in the conflict, but God drove him far away for his crime. Thus it was that evil things came into being, giants and elves and deep-sea monsters, as well as those giants who struggled against God Himself for a long time. And He justly paid them back.
[27]
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II
Then he went
visiting the high house after nightfall, to see how the Ring-Danes were
holding it. And he found there a band of Athelings asleep after
feasting. And they knew not sorrow or the misery of men. The grim and
greedy wight of destruction, all fierce and furious, was soon ready for
his task, and laid hold of thirty thanes, all as they lay sleeping. And
away he wended, faring homeward and exulting in the booty, to revisit
his dwellings filled full of slaughter. At the dawn of day the
war-craft of Grendel was seen by men. Then after his feeding they set
up a weeping, great noise in the morning.
Then he went to visit the grand hall after dark, to see how the Ring-Danes were faring. There, he found a group of princes asleep after their feast. They were oblivious to sorrow or the troubles of the world. The grim and greedy creature of destruction, all fierce and furious, was soon ready for his task and grabbed hold of thirty warriors while they slept. And he headed back home, reveling in his haul, eager to return to his lair filled with carnage. At dawn, the aftermath of Grendel's rampage was visible to the townsfolk. After his feast, they erupted into tears and great wails in the morning.
The glorious Lord, the very good Atheling, sat all unblithely, and suffered [28]great pain, and endured sorrow for his thanes, when they saw the track of the loathly one, the cursed sprite. That struggle was too strong, loathsome and long. And after but one night (no longer time was it) he did them more murder-bale, and recked not a whit the feud and the crime. Too quick was he therein. Then he who had sought elsewhere more at large a resting-place, a bed after bower, was easily found when he was shown and told most truly, by the token so clear, the hate of the hell-thane. He went away farther and faster, he who would escape the fiend. So he ruled and strove against right, he alone against all of them, until the best of houses stood quite idle. And a great while it was—the friend of the Danes suffered distress and sorrows that were great the time of twelve winters.
The glorious Lord, the very good prince, sat all unhappily and experienced great pain, enduring sorrow for his warriors when they saw the tracks of the foul creature, the cursed monster. That struggle was too intense, disgusting, and long. And after just one night (it was no longer than that), he caused them even more suffering, and he didn't care at all about the feud and the crime. He was too quick in doing so. Then he who had sought a resting place elsewhere, a bed after a long journey, was easily found when he was shown and told the truth, by the clear sign of the hell-beast’s hatred. He ran away farther and faster, the one who wanted to escape the fiend. So he fought against what was right, he alone against all of them, until the best of houses stood completely empty. And for a long time—the friend of the Danes suffered great distress and sorrows for twelve years.
Then was it made known to the children of men by a sorrowful singing that Grendel was striving this while against Hrothgar, and waged hateful enmity of crime and feud for many a year with lasting strife, and would hold no truce [29]against any man of the main host of Danes, nor put away the life-bale, or settle feud with a fee, nor did any man need to hope for brighter bettering at the hand of the banesman. The terrible monster, a dark death-shadow, was pursuing the youth and the warriors, and he fettered and ensnared them, and ever was holding night after night the misty moorlands. And, men know not ever whither workers of hell-runes wander to and fro. Thus the foe of mankind, the terrible and lonesome traveller, often he did them even greater despite. And he took up his dwelling in the treasure-decked Hall of Hart in the dark night, nor could he come near the throne the treasure of God, nor did he know His love.4
Then it became clear to everyone that Grendel was constantly fighting against Hrothgar, waging a bitter battle filled with crime and hatred for many years without any peace. He wouldn’t make a deal with any of the warriors from the Danish host, wouldn’t accept compensation to end the conflict, and no one could expect any improvement from the killer. The terrifying monster, a dark shadow of death, was after the young men and the warriors, trapping and ensnaring them, and he haunted the misty moors night after night. And people never knew where the workers of evil roamed. Thus, the enemy of mankind, the dreadful and lonely wanderer, often inflicted even more suffering on them. He made his home in the treasure-filled Hall of Hart during the dark night and could never approach the throne, the treasure of God, nor did he understand His love.[__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__].4
And great was the evil to the friend of the Danes, and breakings of heart. Many a strong one sat in council, and much they discussed what was best for stout-hearted men to do against the fearful terror. And sometimes they went vowing at their heathen shrines [30]and offered sacrifices, and with many words pleaded that the devil himself would give them his help against this menace to the nation. For such was their custom, the hope of the heathen. And ever of Hell they thought in their hearts; the Creator they knew not, the Judge of all deeds, nor knew they the Lord God, nor could they worship the Protector of the heavens, the Wielder of glory. Woe be to that man who shall shove down a soul through hurtful malice into the bosom of the fire, and who hopes for no help nor for any change—well shall it be with that one who after his death day shall seek the Lord and desire protection in the embrace of the Father.
And the troubles for the friend of the Danes were severe, causing heartbreak. Many strong warriors gathered in council, discussing what brave men should do to confront the frightening threat. Sometimes they would make vows at their pagan shrines and offer sacrifices, pleading with the devil himself to assist them against this danger to their nation. Such was the custom of the pagans. They always thought of Hell in their hearts; they did not know the Creator, the Judge of all actions, nor did they recognize the Lord God, nor could they worship the Protector of the heavens, the Wielder of glory. Woe to the person who pushes a soul through malicious harm into the depths of fire, without hoping for help or change—blessed will be the one who, after their death, seeks the Lord and desires protection in the embrace of the Father.
[31]
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III
So Beowulf,
son of Healfdene, ever was brooding over this time-care, nor could the
brave hero avert woe. That conflict was too strong, loathsome and long,
that terrible and dire distress, the greatest of night-bales which came
to the people.
So Beowulf, son of Healfdene, was constantly preoccupied with this looming concern, and the brave hero couldn't avoid the suffering. The struggle was too fierce, hateful, and drawn-out, that awful and dreadful hardship, the worst of all night terrors that afflicted the people.
Then the thane of Hygelac,5 the good man of the Geats,6 heard from home of the deeds of Grendel. And on the day of this life he was the strongest of main of all men in the world; noble was he and powerful. He bade a fair ship be made, and said that he would be seeking the War-King, the famous prince, over the swan path, and that he needed men. And the proud churls little blamed him [32]for that journey, though dear he was to them. They urged on the valiant man and marked the omen. The good man of the Geats had chosen champions of those who were keenest, and sought out the ship. And one, a sea-crafty man, pointed to the land-marks. Time passed by; the ship was on the waves, the boat under the cliff, and the warriors all readily went up to the stern. And the currents were swirling, with sea and sand. And men were carrying on to the naked deck bright ornaments and splendid war-armour. Then they shove forth the ship that was well bound together; and it set forth over the waves, driven by the wind, this foamy-necked ship, likest to a bird; until about the same time on the next day, the ship with its twisted stern had gone so far that the sailing men could see the land, the shining sea-cliffs, the steep mountains, and the wide sea-nesses. Then they crossed the remaining portion of the sea.7 The Geats went up quickly [33]on to the shore, and anchored the ship. War-shirts and war-weeds were rattling. And they gave God thanks for their easy crossing of the waves. Then the ward of the Swedes, who kept guard over the sea-cliffs, saw them carry down the gangways the bright shields and armour, all ready. And full curious thought tortured him as to who these men were. He, the thane of Hrothgar, rode down to the beach on his charger, and powerfully brandished the spear in his hand and took counsel with them.
Then the thane of Hygelac, the good man of the Geats, heard from home about Grendel's deeds. On that day, he was the strongest man in the world; he was noble and powerful. He ordered a beautiful ship to be built and said he would be seeking the War-King, the famous prince, across the swan path, and that he needed men. The proud warriors didn’t blame him much for that journey, even though he was dear to them. They encouraged the brave man and noted the omen. The good man of the Geats had chosen champions who were the most eager and sought out the ship. One skilled sailor pointed to the landmarks. Time passed; the ship was on the waves, the boat under the cliff, and the warriors all climbed up to the stern. The currents were swirling, with sea and sand. The men were bringing bright ornaments and splendid armor to the open deck. Then they launched the well-built ship, which set forth over the waves, driven by the wind, this foamy-necked vessel, like a bird; until around the same time the next day, the ship with its twisted stern had traveled so far that the sailors could see the land, the shining sea cliffs, the steep mountains, and the vast seas. Then they crossed the remaining part of the sea. The Geats quickly went up onto the shore and anchored the ship. The war-shirts and war-gear were clanging. They thanked God for their easy crossing of the waves. Then the guard of the Swedes, who watched over the sea cliffs, saw them bringing down the gangplanks with bright shields and armor, all ready. He was filled with curiosity about who these men were. He, the thane of Hrothgar, rode down to the beach on his horse, brandishing his spear powerfully, and consulted with them.
‘Who are ye armour-bearers, protected by byrnies, who come here thus bringing the high vessel over the sea, and the ringed ship over the ocean? I am he that sits at the end of the land and keep sea-guard, so that no one more loathsome may scathe with ship-army the land of the Danes. Never have shield-bearers begun to come here more openly, yet ye seem not to know the password of warriors, the compact of kinsmen. Nor ever have I seen a greater earl upon earth, than one of your band, a warrior in armour. And [34]except his face belie him, he that is thus weapon-bedecked is no hall-man; but a peerless one to see. Now must I know your lineage before you go farther with your false spies in the land of the Danes. Now O ye far-dwellers and sea-farers, hear my onefold thought—haste is best in making known whence ye are come.’
‘Who are you, armor-bearers, protected by mail, who come here bringing the high vessel across the sea, and the ringed ship over the ocean? I am the one who stands at the edge of the land and keeps watch over the sea, so that no more loathsome creature may ravage the land of the Danes with their ship-army. Never have shield-bearers come here more openly, yet you seem not to know the warrior's password, the bond of kinsmen. I've never seen a greater earl on earth than one of your group, a warrior in armor. And [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]unless his face deceives him, he who is so adorned with weapons is no mere hall-man; he is a remarkable sight. Now I must know your lineage before you proceed any further with your deceptive appearance in the land of the Danes. Now, oh you distant travelers and sea-farers, hear my simple thought—haste is best in making clear where you have come from.’
IV
Then the
eldest gave answer, and unlocked his treasure of words, the wise one of
the troop: ‘We are of the race of the Geats and hearth-comrades
of Hygelac. My father was well known to the folk, a noble prince was he
called Ecgtheow. And he bided many winters, ere as an old man he set
out on his journeys away from the dwelling places. And wellnigh every
councillor throughout all the world remembered [35]him
well. We through bold thinking have come to seek thy lord, the son of
Healfdene, the protector of the people. Vouchsafe to us good guidance.
We have a great business with the lord of the Danes, who is far famed.
Nor of this shall aught be secret as I am hoping. Well thou knowest if
’tis true as we heard say, that among the Danes some secret
evil-doer, I know not what scather, by terror doth work unheard-of
hostility, humiliation, and death. I may give counsel through greatness
of mind to Hrothgar as to how he, the wise and good, may overcome the
fiend, if ever should cease for him the baleful business and bettering
come after and his troubles wax cooler, or for ever he shall suffer
time of stress and miserable throes, while the best of all houses shall
remain on the high stead.’
Then the eldest spoke up and shared his wisdom, saying: ‘We are from the Geats, allies of Hygelac. My father was well-known among the people; he was called Ecgtheow, a noble prince. He lived many years before he, as an old man, embarked on his journeys away from home. Almost every counselor across the land remembers him well. We, through our brave resolve, have come to seek your lord, Healfdene's son, the protector of the people. Please provide us with good guidance. We have an important matter to discuss with the famous lord of the Danes. Nothing of this should be kept secret, as I hope. You know well if it’s true, as we've heard, that among the Danes there is some secret evil-doer, a terror that causes unknown hostility, humiliation, and death. I can offer wise counsel to Hrothgar on how he, being wise and good, may defeat this fiend, if only his troubles could end and peace return, or he will continue to endure hardship and misery while the best of all houses remains in peril.’
Then the watchman, the fearless warrior, as he sat on his horse, quickly made answer: ‘The shield-warrior who is wide awake, shall know how to tell the difference between words and works, if he well bethink him. I can see that this [36]band of warriors will be very welcome to the Lord of the Danes. Go ye forth, therefore, bear weapons and armour, as I will direct you. And I will command my thanes to hold against every foe, your ship in honour, new tarred as it is, and dry on the sands, until it shall carry the dearly loved man, that ship with the twisted prow, to the land of the Geats. To each of the well-doers shall it be given to escape scot-free out of the battle rush.’ Then they went forth carrying their weapons. And there the ship rested, fastened by a rope, the wide-bosomed vessel secured by its anchor. The Boar8 held life ward, bright and battle-hard and adorned with gold, over the neck-guard of the handsome Beowulf. There was snorting of the war-like-minded, whilst men were hastening, as they marched on together till they caught sight of the splendid place decked out in gold. And it was the most famous of palaces, under the heavens, of the [37]earth-dwellers, where the ruler was biding. Its glory shone over many lands. Then the dear one in battle showed them the bright house where were the brave ones, that they might straightway make their way towards it. Then one of the warriors turned his horse round, and spake this word: ‘Time it is for me to go. May the Almighty Father hold you in favour, and keep you in safety in all your journeyings. I will go to the sea-coast to keep my watch against the fierce troops.’
Then the watchman, the fearless warrior, sitting on his horse, quickly responded: ‘The alert shield-warrior will know how to distinguish between words and actions if he thinks carefully. I can see that this [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]group of warriors will be very welcomed by the Lord of the Danes. So go ahead, take your weapons and armor, as I will instruct you. I'll command my thanes to protect your ship, newly tarred and resting dry on the sands, until it carries the beloved man, that ship with the twisted prow, to the land of the Geats. Each of the good ones shall be granted to escape unharmed from the battle rush.’ Then they set out with their weapons. And there the ship sat, tied by a rope, the wide-bellied vessel secured by its anchor. The Boar8 held the life protection, bright and battle-hardened and adorned with gold, over the neck-guard of the handsome Beowulf. There was a snorting from the battle-minded, as the men hurried on together until they spotted the magnificent place adorned in gold. It was the most famous palace under the heavens of the [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]earth-dwellers, where the ruler was waiting. Its glory shone over many lands. Then the dear one in battle showed them the bright house where the brave ones were, so they could immediately make their way towards it. Then one of the warriors turned his horse around and said: ‘It’s time for me to go. May the Almighty Father watch over you and keep you safe on all your journeys. I will head to the coast to stand guard against the fierce troops.’
V
The way was
paved with many coloured stones, and by it they knew the path they
should take. The coat of mail shone brightly, which was firmly
hand-locked. The bright iron ring sang in the armour as they came on
their way in their warlike [38]trappings at the first to the great
hall. Then the sea-weary men set down their broad shields, their
shields that were wondrous hard ’gainst the wall of the great
house, and bowed towards the bench. And byrnies were rattling, the
war-weapons of men. And the spears were standing in a row together, the
weapons of the sea-men and the spear grey above. And the troop of armed
men was made glorious with weapons. Then the proud chieftain asked the
warriors of their kindred: ‘From whence are ye bringing such
gold-plated shields, grey sarks and helmets with visors, and such a
heap of spears? I am the servant and messenger of Hrothgar. Never saw I
so many men prouder. I trow it was for pride and not at all for
banishment, but for greatness of mind that Hrothgar ye are
seeking.’
The path was lined with many colored stones, guiding them on which way to go. The mail coat shone brightly, securely fastened. The bright iron rings clinked in the armor as they approached the great hall in their battle gear [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]. The weary sea men set down their wide shields, which were incredibly sturdy, against the wall of the grand house and bowed toward the bench. The byrny clanked, the weapons of the men. The spears stood in a row together, the weapons of the seafarers, tall and grim. The group of armed men looked magnificent with their weapons. Then the proud chieftain asked the warriors of their kin: “Where did you bring such gold-plated shields, gray shirts, helmets with visors, and all these spears? I am in service to Hrothgar. I have never seen so many proud men. I believe it is out of pride and not exile that you seek Hrothgar, but for his greatness.”
Then answered the brave man, the chief of the Geats, and spake these words, hard under helmet: ‘We are the comrades at table of Hygelac. Beowulf is my name. I will say fully this my errand to the son of Healfdene the famous [39]chieftain, unto thy lord and master, if he will grant us that we may salute him who is so good.’
Then the brave man, the leader of the Geats, replied with these words, firmly under his helmet: ‘We are companions of Hygelac at the table. My name is Beowulf. I will fully explain my purpose to the famous son of Healfdene [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]chieftain, to your lord and master, if he allows us to greet him, who is so good.’
Then spake Wulfgar (he was Prince of the Wendels9). His courage was known to all, his valour and wisdom. ‘I will make known to the Prince of the Danes, the Lord of the Scyldings10 the giver of rings the famous chieftain as thou art pleading, about thy journey, and will make known to thee quickly the answer which he the good man thinks fit to give me.’ Quickly he turned then to where Hrothgar was sitting, old and very grey with his troop of earls. The brave man then went and stood before the shoulders of the Lord of the Danes. Well he knew the custom of the doughty ones. Wulfgar then spoke to his lord and friend: ‘Here are come faring from a far country over the wide sea, a people of the Geats, and the eldest the warriors call Beowulf. And they are asking that they may exchange words [40]with thee, my lord. O gladman Hrothgar, do not refuse to be talking with them. For worthy they seem all in their war-weeds, in the judgement of earls. At least he is a daring Prince who hither hath led this band of warriors.’
Then Wulfgar spoke (he was the Prince of the Wendels9). His bravery was well-known, along with his valor and wisdom. “I’ll inform the Prince of the Danes, the Lord of the Scyldings10, the renowned leader you’re pleading for, about your journey, and I’ll quickly bring you back his response, which he, the good man, finds appropriate to give me.” He then turned swiftly to where Hrothgar was sitting, old and very gray with his group of earls. The brave man approached and stood before the Lord of the Danes. He was well aware of the customs of the courageous ones. Wulfgar then addressed his lord and friend: “Here have arrived, traveling from a distant land across the wide sea, a group of Geats, led by a warrior called Beowulf. They are requesting to exchange words [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] with you, my lord. O joyous Hrothgar, please don’t refuse to speak with them. They all seem worthy in their battle gear, judging by the standards of earls. At the very least, he is a bold Prince who has brought this band of warriors here.”
VI
Then spake
Hrothgar the protector of the Danes: ‘Well I knew him when he was
a child, and his old father was called Ecgtheow. And to him did Hrethel
of the Geats give his only daughter, and his son is bravely come here
and hath sought out a gracious friend.’ Then said the sea-farers
who had brought the goodly gifts of the Geats there for thanks, that he
the battle-brave had in his hand-grip the main craft of thirty
[41]men. ‘And the holy God hath sent him for
favour to us West Danes, and of this I have hope, ’gainst the
terror of Grendel. I shall offer the goodman gifts for his daring. Now
make thou haste and command the band of warrior kinsmen into the
presence. Bid them welcome to the people of the Danes.’ Then went
Wulfgar even to the hall-door, and spake these words: ‘My liege
lord, the Prince of the East Danes, commands me to say that he knows
your lineage. And ye who are bold of purpose are welcome hither over
the sea-waves. Now may ye go in your war-weeds, under your visored
helmets to see Hrothgar. Let your swords stay behind here, the wood and
the slaughter-shafts and the issue of words.’ Then the Prince
rose up, and about him was many a warrior, a glorious band of thanes.
And some bided there and held the battle-garments as the brave man
commanded. And they hastened together under the roof of Hrothgar as the
man directed them. The stout-hearted man went forward, [42]hard
under helmet till he stood by the dais.
Then Hrothgar, the protector of the Danes, said: ‘I knew him well as a child, and his father was called Ecgtheow. Hrethel of the Geats gave him his only daughter, and his son has bravely come here seeking a kind friend.’ Then the seafarers who had brought gifts from the Geats for thanks said that he, the battle-brave, had the strength of thirty men in his grip. ‘And the holy God has sent him to us West Danes, and I have hope against the terror of Grendel. I shall offer him gifts for his bravery. Now hurry and bring the band of warrior kinsmen into the presence. Welcome them to the people of the Danes.’ Then Wulfgar went to the hall door and spoke these words: ‘My liege lord, the Prince of the East Danes, commands me to say that he knows your family. And those of you who are brave are welcome here across the sea-waves. Now you may go in your battle gear, under your visored helmets, to see Hrothgar. Leave your swords behind here, the wood and the weapons of slaughter and the outcome of words.’ Then the Prince stood up, surrounded by many warriors, a glorious band of thanes. Some stayed there and held the battle garments as the brave man commanded. They hurried together under Hrothgar’s roof as he directed them. The stout-hearted man moved forward, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]hard under his helmet until he stood by the elevated seat.
Then Beowulf spake (and the byrny shone on him, the coat of mail, sewn by the cunning of the smith): ‘O Hrothgar, all hail! I am the kinsman and comrade of Hygelac.11 Many marvels I have set on foot in the days of my youth. The affair of Grendel was made known to me in my native land. Sea-farers told how this best of all palaces stood idle and useless to warriors, after evening light came down under the brightness of heaven. Then my people persuaded me, the best and the proudest of all my earls, O my lord Hrothgar, that I should seek thee, for they well knew my main strength. For they themselves saw how I came forth bloodstained from the power of the fiend, when I bound the five, and destroyed the giant’s kin, and slew ’mongst the waves, sea-monsters by night, and suffered such dire distress, and wreaked vengeance for the strife [43]of the Geats (for woe they were suffering), and I destroyed the fierce one. And now all alone I shall settle the affair of Grendel the deadly monster, the cruel giant. And one boon will I be asking, O Prince of the Bright Danes, thou lord of the Scyldings, Protector of warriors and friend of the folk, that thou wilt not refuse, since so far I am come, that I and my troop of earls, this crowd of brave men, may alone cleanse out Hart. I have heard say also that the monster because of his rashness recks not of weapons. And, if Hygelac the blithe-minded will be my liege lord, I will forgo to carry to the battle a sword, or broad shield all yellow; but I will engage by my hand-grip with the enemy, and strive for life, foe with foe. And he whom Death taketh shall believe in the doom of the Lord. And I doubt not he will fearlessly consume the people of the Geats, if he may prevail in the war-hall as he has often done with the strong men of the Danes. And thou shalt not need to hide my head if Death take [44]me, for he will seize me all bloodstained, and will bury the slaughter all bloody, and will think to taste and devour me alone and without any sorrow, and will stain the glens in the moorland. And thou needest not to sorrow longer over the food of my body. And if battle take me, send to Hygelac this best of coats of mail, the noblest of garments. It is the heirloom of Hrethel the work of Weland12; and let Weird go as it will.’
Then Beowulf spoke (and the chainmail shone on him, the armor crafted by the skill of the blacksmith): ‘O Hrothgar, greetings! I am the relative and friend of Hygelac. I've accomplished many great things in my youth. Word of Grendel reached me in my homeland. Sailors shared stories of how this great hall stood empty and useless to warriors after nightfall came. My people urged me, the best and proudest of my warriors, O my lord Hrothgar, to seek you out, for they knew my strength. They witnessed how I emerged bloodstained from facing the fiend when I bound five of them, destroyed the giant's kin, fought sea monsters by night, endured terrible hardships, and avenged the woes of the Geats (for they were suffering), and I killed the fierce one. Now, I alone will take on the challenge of Grendel, the deadly monster, the cruel giant. And there's one thing I will ask, O Prince of the Bright Danes, lord of the Scyldings, Protector of warriors and friend of the people, that you will not refuse, since I have come this far, that my band of warriors, this brave group, may cleanse out Hart alone. I have also heard that the monster, due to his reckless nature, doesn't fear weapons. If Hygelac, the cheerful, is my liege lord, I will forgo taking a sword or shiny shield into battle; instead, I will fight the enemy hand-to-hand, struggling for life, foe against foe. Whoever Death claims will believe in the Lord's judgment. I don't doubt he will boldly consume the Geats if he triumphs in the mead hall as he has often done with the strong men of the Danes. You won’t need to hide my head if Death takes me, for he will take me all bloodstained and will bury the slaughter without sorrow, staining the valleys in the moors. And you need not grieve over my body anymore. If battle claims me, send this finest coat of mail to Hygelac, the noblest of garments. It is Hrethel’s heirloom, the work of Weland; let fate take its course.’
VII
Hrothgar gave
answer, the protector of the Danes: ‘O my friend Beowulf, now
thou hast sought us, for defence and for favour. Thy father fought in
the greatest of feuds. He was banesman to Heatholaf [45]amongst
the Wylfings, when for battle-terror the King of the Geats could not
hold him. Thence he sought the folk of the South Danes over the welter
of waves. Then first was I ruling the Danish folk, and in my youthful
days possessed the costly jewels, the treasure city of heroes. Then
Heregar was dead, my elder brother not living was he, the child of
Healfdene. He was a better man than I was. Then a payment of money
settled the matter. I sent to the Wylfings ancient presents over the
sea-ridges. And he swore to me oaths. And it is to me great sorrow in
my heart to tell any man what Grendel hath done in Hart through his
malice, of humiliation and sudden horror. My hall-troop has grown less,
the crowd of my thanes; Weird13 has swept them towards the terror
of Grendel. But easily may the good God restrain [46]the
deeds of the foolish scather. And drunken with beer the warriors full
often boasted o’er the ale-cup that they would bide in the
beer-hall the battle of Grendel with the terror of swords. Then was the
mead-hall all bloodstained in the morning when dawn came shining, and
all the benches were wet with gore, the hall with sword-blood. And so
much the less did I rule o’er dear doughty ones whom death had
taken. Now sit down to the banquet and unbind thy thoughts, thy hopes
to the thanes, as thy mind inspires thee.’ Then was there room
made in the beer-hall for the Geats all together. And there they went
and sat down, the strong-hearted men, proud of their strength. And a
thane waited on them, who bore in his hands the ale-cup bedecked, and
he poured out the sparkling mead, while the clear-voiced bard kept
singing in Hart. There was joy to the heroes, and a very great
gathering of Danes and of Geats.
Hrothgar replied, the protector of the Danes: ‘My friend Beowulf, you have come to us seeking help and support. Your father fought in a legendary feud. He was the slayer of Heatholaf [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] among the Wylfings, when the King of the Geats couldn't hold him back due to the fear of battle. From there, he sought the people of the South Danes across the turbulent waves. At that time, I was ruling the Danes, and in my youth, I had the precious jewels, the treasure city of heroes. Heregar, my elder brother and son of Healfdene, was dead then. He was a better man than I. We settled the issue with a payment. I sent ancient gifts across the sea ridges to the Wylfings. He swore oaths to me. It fills my heart with great sorrow to tell anyone what Grendel has done in Hart out of his malice, bringing humiliation and sudden fear. My hall-troop has diminished, and the number of my thanes has shrunk; fate13 has swept them away towards Grendel's terror. But the good God can easily restrain [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] the actions of the foolish destroyer. The warriors, often drunk with beer, boasted over their drinks that they would stay in the mead-hall to face Grendel and the terror of swords. The mead-hall was stained with blood by morning when dawn broke, with all the benches soaked in gore, and the hall filled with sword blood. And I have had even less control over my brave ones whom death has taken. Now sit down at the banquet and share your thoughts, your hopes with the thanes, as your mind inspires you.’ Then room was made in the beer-hall for all the Geats. They went and sat down, the strong-hearted men, proud of their strength. A thane served them, carrying in his hands the decorated ale cup, pouring the sparkling mead while a clear-voiced bard sang in Hart. There was joy among the heroes, and a great gathering of Danes and Geats.
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VIII
Spake then
Unferth, the son of Eglaf, who sat at the feet of the Lord of the Danes
and opened a quarrel. (For the journey of Beowulf, of the brave
sea-farer, was vexation to him, for he could not brook that ever any
other man than he himself should obtain greater fame in all the
earth.)
Then Unferth, the son of Eglaf, who sat at the feet of the King of the Danes, started a dispute. (Beowulf's journey, the brave traveler, annoyed him, as he couldn’t stand the thought of anyone else achieving greater fame than himself in the world.)
‘What!’ said he, ‘art thou that Beowulf who didst contend with Breca, and strovest for the mastery in swimming o’er wide seas, when ye two for pride were searching the waves and for foolish boasting risked your lives in the deep waters? No man could dissuade you from that sorrowful journey, neither friend nor foe, when ye two swam in the sea, when ye two enfolded the waves with your arms and measured the sea-ways and brandished your arms as you glided o’er the ocean. The sea [48]boiled with waves the wintry whelming. And for seven nights long ye were toiling in the stress of seas. But he o’erpowered thee in swimming, for greater strength had he. Then at the morning tide the sea bore him up to the land of the Heathoremes. Thence he was seeking the friend of his people his own dear country, the land of the Brondings, the fair city of refuge, where he had his own folk, and a city and rings. The son of Beanstan soothly fulfilled his boasting against thee. So do I deem it a worse matter, though thou art everywhere doughty in the rush of battle and grim warfare, if thou shalt be daring to bide near Grendel a night-long space.’
‘What!’ he said, ‘are you really Beowulf, the one who competed with Breca, and challenged him for the title of the best swimmer over the vast seas, when you both, out of pride, plunged into the waves and risked your lives in the deep waters for some foolish bragging? No one could convince you to abandon that dangerous journey, not even friends or enemies, as you both swam across the sea, battling the waves with your arms and measuring the depths while you glided over the ocean. The sea [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]was boiling with winter waves. And for seven nights you struggled against the tides. But he defeated you in swimming, for he was stronger. Then, at dawn, the sea brought him ashore to the land of the Heathoremes. From there, he was heading to reunite with his people and return to his own country, the land of the Brondings, the beautiful city of safety, where he had his own community, a city and treasures. The son of Beanstan truly proved his claim against you. So I consider it even worse, although you’re brave in battle and fierce in combat, if you’re foolish enough to stay near Grendel all night.’
Then Beowulf spake, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘What! my friend Unferth, drunken with beer, many things thou art saying about that Breca and talkest of his journey. But soothly I tell thee that I had the greater strength in that swimming, and endurance in the waves. We two agreed when we were youngsters, and boasted (for we were both [49]still in the days of our youth) that we in the ocean would be risking our lives. And so in deed we did. We had a naked sword hard in our hands when we were swimming. We two were thinking to guard us ’gainst whale fishes. Nor over the sea-waves might he be floating a whit far from me, more quickly on the waters. Then we together were in the sea for the space of five nights until the flood, the boiling waters drove us asunder. And the coldest of weather, and the darkening night, and a wind from the north battle-grim turned against us, and rough were the waves. And the mind of the mere-fishes was stirred when my shirt of mail that was hand-locked gave to me help against the foe. The decorated battle-robe lay on my breast all adorned with gold, and the doomèd and dire foe drew to the bottom, and fast he had me grim in his grip. Still to me was granted that I reached to the monster with the point of my sword. And the mighty sea-deer carried off the battle-rush through my hand.’
Then Beowulf spoke, the son of Ecgtheow: “What’s up, my friend Unferth? You’re going on and on about Breca and his journey while you’re tipsy from beer. But I’m telling you the truth—I was stronger in that swim and lasted longer in the waves. We two agreed when we were kids, and we boasted (since we were still young then) that we would risk our lives in the ocean. And we did just that. We both had a naked sword firmly in our hands while we were swimming. We were prepared to defend ourselves against whale attacks. No one could swim faster than me on the water. We were in the sea together for five nights until the raging waters separated us. The cold weather, the dark night, and a fierce north wind battled against us, and the waves were rough. The minds of the sea creatures stirred when my mail shirt, which was hand-locked, helped protect me from the enemy. The decorated battle armor lay on my chest, all adorned with gold, as the doomed and dangerous foe dragged me down, and he had me tightly in his grip. Still, I managed to reach the monster with the tip of my sword. The mighty sea beast carried off the battle rush through my hand.'
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IX
So
then evil-doers did often oppress me. And I served them with my dear
sword as was most fitting. Not at all of the feasting had they any joy.
Evil destroyers sat round the banquet at the bottom of the sea, that
they might seize me. But in the morning, wounded by my sword, they lay
up on the foreshore, put to sleep by my weapon so that they hindered no
more the faring of the sea-goers. Light came from the eastward, the
bright beacon of God. The waves grew less that I could catch sight of
the sea-nesses, the windy walls. Weird often saveth the earl that is
undoomed when his courage is doughty. Nevertheless it happened that I
slew with my sword nine of the sea-monsters. Nor have I heard under
vault of heaven of a harder night-struggle, nor of a more [51]wretched
man on the sea-streams. Still I escaped from the grasp of the foes,
with my life, and weary of the journey. When the sea bore me up, on the
flood tide, on the welling of waves, to the land of the Finns. Nor have
I heard concerning thee of any such striving or terror of swords. Breca
never yet, nor either of you two, did such a deed with shining sword in
any battle-gaming (not that I will boast of this too much), yet wast
thou the slayer of thy brother, thy chief kinsman. And for this in hell
shalt thou suffer a curse, though thy wit be doughty. And soothly I
tell thee, O son of Eglaf, that Grendel that hateful monster never had
done such terrors to thy life and humiliation in Hart if thy mind and
thy soul were as battle-fierce as thou thyself dost say. But he has
found that he needed not to fear the feud the terrible sword-thrust of
your people the Danes. He taketh forced toll, and spareth none of the
Danish people, but joyfully wageth war, putteth them to sleep and
feedeth on them, and expecteth no fight [52]from the Danes. But I
shall ere long offer him in war the strength and the courage of the
Geats. Let him go who can to the mead all proudly when morning light
shall shine from the south, another day over the children of
men.’
So evil-doers often oppressed me. I used my trusty sword against them, as was right. They found no joy in their feasting. Evil destroyers gathered at the bottom of the sea, trying to capture me. But by morning, wounded by my sword, they lay on the shore, put to sleep by my weapon, no longer hindering the journeys of sea-goers. Light came from the east, the bright beacon of God. The waves calmed, allowing me to see the sea's features, the windy barriers. Fate often saves the undoomed earl when his courage is strong. Still, I ended up slaying nine sea monsters with my sword. I have never heard under heaven of a tougher night battle or a more wretched man at sea. Yet I escaped from my enemies, weary from the journey. The sea carried me on the tide, on the rolling waves, to the land of the Finns. I’ve never heard of you facing such struggles or terror of swords. Breca never did such a thing with a shining sword in battle (and I won’t brag too much about it), yet you are the slayer of your brother, your closest kin. For this, you will suffer a curse in hell, even if you’re clever. Truly, I tell you, O son of Eglaf, that Grendel, that hated monster, would not have brought such terror and humiliation to your life in Hart if your mind and spirit were as fierce as you claim. But he has discovered that he need not fear the dreadful sword strikes from your people, the Danes. He takes what he wants, sparing no one among the Danes, joyfully waging war, putting them to sleep, and feeding on them, expecting no fight [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] from them. But soon I will challenge him in battle with the strength and courage of the Geats. Let him go who can to the mead hall proudly when the morning light shines from the south, another day for mankind.’
Then in the hall the giver of rings was grey-haired and battle-brave. The Prince of the Danes was hopeful of help. The guardian of the folk fixed on Beowulf his firm-purposed thought. There was laughter ’mong heroes, din resounded, and words were winsome. Wealtheow went forth, the Queen of Hrothgar, mindful of kinship and decked out in gold, she greeted Beowulf in the hall. And then the lovely wife first proffered the goblet to the Lord of the East Danes, and bade him be blithe at the beer-drinking, he who was dear to all his people. And gladly he took the banquet and hall-cup, he the victorious King. The lady of the Helmings14 went round about every one of the [53]youthful warriors, and proffered the costly cup, until the time came that the ring-adorned Queen, most excellent in spirit, bore the mead-cup then to Beowulf. She, the wise in words, greeted the Geats and gave thanks to God that she had her desire that she might trust in any earl for help against such crimes. He gladly received it, he the battle-fierce warrior, from the hand of Wealtheow, and then began singing, inspired by a warlike spirit.
Then in the hall, the ring-giver was gray-haired and brave in battle. The Prince of the Danes was hopeful for assistance. The protector of the people focused his determined thoughts on Beowulf. Laughter echoed among the heroes, noise filled the air, and conversation was engaging. Wealtheow, the Queen of Hrothgar, adorned in gold and aware of her lineage, approached Beowulf in the hall. The lovely queen was the first to offer the goblet to the Lord of the East Danes, encouraging him to enjoy the festive beer-drinking, as he was beloved by all his people. He gladly accepted the banquet and the cup from the victorious king. The lady of the Helmings went around to each of the youthful warriors, offering the precious cup, until it was time for the ring-adorned queen, who was excellent in spirit, to present the mead-cup to Beowulf. She, wise in her words, greeted the Geats and thanked God for the opportunity to trust any nobleman for assistance against such evils. He happily accepted it, the fierce warrior, from Wealtheow's hand, and then began to sing, filled with a battle spirit.
Beowulf spake, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘I had intended at once to work out the will of this your people when I set forth over the sea and sat in my sea-boat with the troop of my people, or that I would fall in the slaughter fast in the fiend’s grip. I shall yet acquit myself as befitteth an earl, or in the mead-hall await my last day.’ And well the lady liked the words, the boasting of the Geat. And that lovely queen went all decked out in gold to sit by her lord. Then mighty words were spoken in the hall as before, by the people in joyance and the noise of the victors, until the [54]son of Healfdene15 straightway would be seeking his evening rest. And he knew that a battle was doomed in the high hall to the monster when no longer they could see the light of the sun, or darkening night came stalking over all the shapes of shadows. The troop of warriors rose up, the Lord greeted the other, Hrothgar greeted Beowulf, and wished him good health and the warding of that wine-hall, and he spake the word: ‘Since the time that I could lift my hand or my shield, never have I given the mighty hall of the Danes into the care of any, except now to thee. Have now and hold thou this best of houses, be thou mindful of honour, and show thyself courageous, and wakeful ‘gainst foes. Nor shalt thou lack joy if thou escapest from that brave work with life.’
Beowulf spoke, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘I had planned to fulfill the wishes of your people right away when I sailed across the sea and sat in my ship with my crew, or I would meet my end in battle at the hands of the monster. I will still prove myself as a noble warrior, or in the mead-hall, I will await my last day.’ The lady was pleased by the words, the prideful claims of the Geat. That beautiful queen, adorned in gold, went to sit beside her lord. Mighty words were exchanged in the hall, just as before, with joyful celebrations and the sounds of victors, until the [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]son of Healfdene15 decided to seek his evening rest. He knew that a battle was imminent in the grand hall against the monster as soon as the light of the sun faded and darkness fell over the shadows. The warriors stood up, the Lord greeted one another, Hrothgar welcomed Beowulf, wishing him good health and protection of that great hall. He then said: ‘Since I was able to lift my hand or my shield, I have never entrusted the mighty hall of the Danes to anyone but you. Now, take and hold this greatest of halls, remember your honor, be courageous, and stay alert against enemies. You will find joy if you survive this great challenge.’
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X
Then Hrothgar
departed with his troop of heroes, he the Prince of the Scyldings; out
of Hall went he, for the battle-chieftain would be seeking out
Wealtheow his Queen, that they might go to rest. The glory of kings had
appointed a hall-ward, as men say, against Grendel. A thane was in
waiting on the Prince of the Danes, and his watch was keeping against
the giant. The Lord of the Geats readily trusted the proud strength,
the favour of God. Then doffed he the iron coat of mail and his helmet
from his head, and gave his sword bedecked, the choicest of weapons, to
a thane that was serving, and bade him to hold ready his armour. Then
the good man spoke some words of boasting: ‘I reck not myself
meaner in war-powers and works of battle than Grendel doth [56]himself.
For I will not with sword put him to sleep and be taking his life away,
though well I might do it. He knows not of good things, that he may
strike me, or hew my shield, though brave he may be in hostile
working—but we two by right will forbear the sword if he dare be
seeking warfare without weapon, and then God all-knowing, the holy
Lord, shall adjudge the glory on whichever side He may think
meet.’ Then the bold in fight got him to rest, and the pillow
received the head of the earl, and many a keen sea-warrior lay down on
his bed in the hall about him. None of them thought that he thence
would ever seek another dear home, folk or free city where he was a
child; for they had heard that fell death had taken, ere this too many,
in that wine-hall, of the people of the Danes. But the Lord gave
weavings of war-speed to the people of the Geats, both comfort and
help. So that they all overcame their enemies through the craft of one
man and by his might only. And truly it is said that God Almighty doth
[57]wield for ever the race of men. Then came in the
wan night the shadow-goer gliding. Warriors were sleeping when they
should have been keeping guard over that palace; all save one only. It
was well known to men that their constant foe could not draw them into
shadowy places when the Creator was unwilling. But he, ever wakeful, in
angry mood, and fiercely indignant against the foe, was waiting the
issue.
Then Hrothgar left with his band of heroes, he the Prince of the Scyldings; out of the Hall he went, as the battle leader was looking for Wealtheow, his Queen, so they could get some rest. The glory of kings had appointed a hall guard, as people say, against Grendel. A thane was waiting on the Prince of the Danes, keeping watch against the giant. The Lord of the Geats confidently relied on his own strength and the favor of God. Then he took off his iron mail coat and his helmet and handed his prized sword, his finest weapon, to a thane serving him, asking him to keep his armor ready. Then the noble man spoke some words of boasting: 'I don't consider myself any weaker in battle skills and warrior deeds than Grendel himself [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]. For I will not use my sword to kill him, even though I could easily do so. He doesn’t understand that he can strike me or hit my shield, no matter how brave he may be in fighting — but we will both forgo the sword if he dares to seek a fight without weapons, and then God Almighty, the holy Lord, will decide the glory for whichever side He sees fit.’ Then the brave fighter settled down to rest, and the pillow cradled the head of the earl, while many sharp sea-warriors lay down around him in the hall. None of them thought they would ever return to another beloved home, family, or free city where they had grown up; for they had heard that cruel death had already taken far too many in that banquet hall, among the Danes. But the Lord granted the Geats a swift way to war, both comfort and help. So, they all overcame their enemies through the skill and might of one man alone. And it is truly said that God Almighty continues to rule over mankind. Then came the dark night, the shadowy creature gliding in. Warriors were asleep when they should have been guarding the fortress; all except one. It was well known to the men that their constant enemy couldn’t pull them into shadowy places when the Creator did not allow it. But he, always alert, filled with anger and fiercely indignant against the foe, was waiting for what would happen.
XI
Then came
Grendel, stalking from the moors among the misty hill-slopes, and he
bore God’s anger. And the wicked scather of human kind fully
intended to ensnare a certain one in the high hall. So he wended his
way under the welkin to where he knew that the best of wine-halls,
[58]the gold-hall of man, was adorned with gold
plating. Nor was that the first time that he sought out the home of
Hrothgar. Nor ever in former or later days did he find a harder welcome
from hall-thanes. Then the creature bereft of all joy came to the great
hall, and the door, strongly bound with fire-bands, soon sprang open at
his touch. And the evil-minded one in his fury burst open the door of
the palace. And soon after this the enemy, angry in mind, was treading
o’er the doomèd floor. And a fearsome light streamed forth
from his eyes likest to a flame. And he could see many a warrior in
that palace, a troop of peace-lovers asleep together, a company of
kinsmen, and he laughed aloud. Then the terrible monster fully intended
to cut off from life every one of them there, when he was expecting
abundance of meat. But that fate was not yet, that he should lay hold
of any more of human kind after that night.
Then Grendel appeared, creeping from the moors among the misty hills, carrying God’s anger. The wicked destroyer of humanity had every intention of trapping someone in the great hall. So he made his way under the sky to the best of wine-halls, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]the gold hall of men, which was adorned with gold. This wasn’t the first time he had sought out Hrothgar’s home, and he never found a tougher reception from the hall warriors in either the past or the future. The creature, stripped of all joy, arrived at the grand hall, and the door, reinforced with fire-bands, sprang open at his touch. In his rage, he forced open the palace door. Soon after, the enemy, angry in mind, was treading over the doomed floor. A terrifying light shone from his eyes, resembling a flame. He spotted many warriors in that palace, a group of peace-lovers sleeping together, a company of relatives, and he laughed loudly. Then the terrible monster fully intended to take the life of every one of them there, expecting a feast. But that fate was not to be, as he would not grasp any more of humanity that night.
Then did Beowulf, kinsman of Hygelac, see the dire distress, how the [59]wicked scather would fare with sudden grip. Nor did the monster think to delay, but at the first he quickly laid hold of a sleeping warrior, and tore him to pieces all unawares, and bit at the flesh and drank the streaming blood, and devoured huge pieces of flesh. And soon he had eaten up both feet and hands of the man he had killed. Then he stepped up to the great-hearted warrior16 where he lay on the bed, and took him in his hands. He reached out his hand against the enemy, and quickly received him with hostile intent, and sat upon his arm. The Keeper of crimes soon was finding that he never had met in all the quarters of the earth amongst other men a greater hand-grip. And in mind and heart he was fearful, and eager to be gone and to flee away into darkness to seek the troop of devils. But that was not his fate, as it had been in days of yore. Then the good kinsman of Hygelac remembered the evening talk, and stood upright and laid hold upon him. His fingers burst. The [60]giant was going forth, but the earl stepped after. The famous one intended to escape more widely, howsoever he might, and to flee on his way thence to the sloping hollows of the fens. That journey was sorrowful, which the harmful scather took to Hart. The lordly hall resounded. And great terror there was to all the Danes, the castle-dwellers, to each of the brave. And both the mighty guardians were fiercely angry. The hall resounded. Then was it great wonder that the wine-hall withstood the bold fighters, and that it fell not to the earth, that fair earth-dwelling. But very firm it was standing, cunningly shaped by craft of the smith, within and without. Then on the floor was many a mead-bench, as I have heard tell, decked out with gold, where the fierce ones were striving. Nor did the wise Danes formerly suppose that any man could break down a hall so noble and decorated with antlers, or cunningly destroy it, unless the bosom of flame swallowed it up in smoke. The roaring went up now [61]enough. And an awful terror came to the North Danes, to each one of those who heard weeping from the ramparts, the enemy of God singing a fierce song, a song that was empty of victory, and the captive of hell lamenting his sorrow. For he that was strongest of men in strength held him fast on the day of his life.
Then Beowulf, kinsman of Hygelac, saw the terrible distress of how the [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]wicked monster would act with a sudden grip. The creature didn’t hesitate and immediately grabbed a sleeping warrior, tearing him apart without warning, biting into his flesh, drinking the flowing blood, and consuming huge chunks of meat. Soon, he had devoured both the feet and hands of the man he had killed. Then he approached the brave warrior16 who lay on the bed and seized him. He reached out against his enemy, took him with hostile intent, and sat on his arm. The Keeper of crimes soon realized he had never encountered a stronger grip than that of any man on earth. Fearful and eager to escape, he wanted to flee into darkness and join the devils. But he wasn’t destined to, as he had been in the past. Then the good kinsman of Hygelac remembered their evening conversation, stood up, and grabbed him. His fingers crushed. The [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]giant was trying to escape, but the earl pursued him. The infamous one intended to flee as far away as he could, making his way to the sloping hollows of the fens. That journey was sorrowful for the harmful creature as he went to Hart. The lordly hall echoed with sound. There was great fear among all the Danes, the castle-dwellers, and every brave man. Both mighty guardians were fiercely angry. The hall echoed. It was truly remarkable that the wine-hall withstood the bold fighters and that it didn’t collapse to the earth, that fair earth-dwelling. But it stood very firm, skillfully shaped by the smith’s craftsmanship, inside and out. Numerous mead-benches, as I have heard, adorned with gold, were on the floor where the fierce ones were battling. The wise Danes did not believe anyone could break down such a noble hall decorated with antlers or cleverly destroy it unless flames consumed it in smoke. The roaring rose up now [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]enough. And an awful terror gripped the North Danes, everyone who heard the weeping from the ramparts, the enemy of God singing a fierce song, a song lacking victory, and the captive of hell lamenting his sorrow. For he, the strongest of men, held him tight on the day of his life.
XII
The Prince of
earls would not at all let go alive the murderous comer, nor did he
count his life as of use to any of the peoples. And many an earl of
Beowulf’s brandished the old heirloom, and were wishful to defend
the life of their far-famed liege-lord, if they might do so. And they
knew not, when they entered the battle, they the hard-thinking ones,
the battle-men, and they thought to hew on all sides [62]seeking
out his spirit, that not any choice iron over the earth nor any battle
weapon could be greeting the foe, but that he had forsworn all
victorious weapons and swords. And miserable should be his passing on
the day of this life, and the hostile sprite should journey far into
the power of devils. Then he found out that, he who did crimes long
before this with mirthful mind to human kind, he who was a foe to God,
that his body would not last out; but the proud kinsman of Hygelac had
him in his hands. And each was loathsome to the other while he lived.
The terrible monster, sore with wounds was waiting. The gaping wound
was seen on his shoulder. His sinews sprang open; and the bone-lockers
burst. And great victory was given to Beowulf. Thence would Grendel,
mortally wounded, flee under the fen-slopes to seek out a joyless
dwelling. The more surely he knew he had reached the end of his life,
the number of his days. Joy befell all the Danes after the
slaughter-rush. So he had cleansed the hall of Hrothgar—he who
[63]had come from far, the proud and stout-hearted
one, and saved them from strife. He rejoiced in the night-work and in
the glorious deeds. His boast he had fulfilled, this leader of the
Geats, which he made to the East Danes, and likewise made good all the
distresses and the sorrows which they suffered of yore from the foe,
and which through dire need they had to endure, of distresses not a
few. And when the battle-brave man laid down the hand, the arm and
shoulder under the wide roof, that was the manifest token.
The Prince of
earls would not let the killer go alive, nor did he see his life as valuable to any of the people. Many earls of Beowulf’s lineage raised the old heirloom and were eager to protect the life of their legendary lord, if they could. They didn’t realize, as they charged into battle, that they, the hard-headed warriors, believed they could fight on all sides [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]searching for his spirit, that no sword or iron could greet the foe, because he had sworn off all victorious weapons and swords. And it would be a miserable end for him on this day, and the hostile spirit would wander far into the realm of devils. Then he discovered that he who had committed crimes long ago with a joyful heart against humanity, who was an enemy of God, would not survive; but Hygelac’s proud relative had him in his grasp. And each found the other repulsive while he lived. The terrible monster, sorely wounded, was waiting. The gaping wound was visible on his shoulder. His sinews burst open, and the bone-joints shattered. And great victory was granted to Beowulf. Thus, Grendel, mortally wounded, would flee under the swamp edges to find a joyless home. The more certain he became that his life was at an end, the fewer days he had left. Joy filled all the Danes after the slaughter. So he had cleansed Hrothgar’s hall—he who [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]had come from afar, the proud and brave one, and saved them from conflict. He reveled in the night’s work and in his glorious deeds. He had fulfilled his boast, this leader of the Geats, which he made to the East Danes, and also made good all the troubles and sorrows they had suffered from the foe in the past, enduring many hardships. And when the battle-hardened man laid down the hand, the arm, and the shoulder under the wide roof, that was the clear sign.
XIII
Then in the
morning, as I have heard say, was many a battle-warrior round about the
gift-hall. Came the folk-leaders from far and from near along the wide
ways to look at the marvel. Nor did his passing seem [64]a thing
to grieve over to any of the warriors of those who were scanning the
track of the glory-less wight, how weary in mind he had dragged along
his life-steps, on the way thence doomed and put to flight, and
overcome in the fight at the lake of the sea-monsters. There was the
sea boiling with blood, the awful surge of waves all mingled with hot
gore. The death-doomèd one dyed the lake when void of joys he
laid down his life in the fen for refuge. And hell received him. Thence
after departed the old companions, likewise many a young one from the
joyous journeys, proud from the lake to ride on mares, the youths on
their horses. And there was the glory of Beowulf proclaimed. And many a
one was saying that no man was a better man, no, none in the whole wide
world under arch of the sky, of all the shield-bearers, neither south
nor north, by the two seas. Nor a whit did they blame in the least
their friend and lord, the glad Hrothgar; for he was a good king.
Then in the morning, as I’ve heard, many battle-warriors gathered around the gift-hall. The leaders of the people came from far and wide along the roads to see the marvel. And no one among the warriors seemed to mourn for the glory-less man, reflecting on how weary he had been as he dragged through his life, doomed and defeated in battle at the lake of the sea-monsters. The sea was boiling with blood, the terrible waves mixed with hot gore. The condemned man tainted the lake when devoid of joy he laid down his life in the marsh for safety. And hell took him in. Afterward, the old companions departed, along with many young ones from their joyful journeys, proudly riding from the lake on their mares, the youths on their horses. And the glory of Beowulf was celebrated. Many said that no man was better than he, none in the entire world under the sky, among all the shield-bearers, neither in the south nor in the north, by the two seas. Nor did they blame their friend and lord, the joyful Hrothgar, in any way; he was a good king.
Meanwhile the famed in battle let [65]the fallow mares leap and go faring forth to the contest, wherever the earth-ways seemed fair unto them and well known for their choiceness: and the thane of the king, he who was laden with many a vaunt, and was mindful of songs, and remembered a host of very many old sagas, he found other words, but bound by the truth. And a man began wisely to sing the journey of Beowulf, and to tell skilful tales with speeding that was good, and to interchange words. He told all that ever he had heard concerning Sigmund,17 with his deeds of courage, and much that is unknown, the strife of Waelsing; and the wide journeys which the children of men knew not at all, the feud and the crimes, when Fitela was not with him, when he would be saying any of such things, the uncle to the nephew, for always they were comrades in need at all the strivings. They had laid low very many of the giant’s race by means of the sword. And after his death-day a no little [66]fame sprang up for Sigmund when he, the hard in battle, killed the worm, the guardian of the hoard. He alone the child of the Atheling, hazarded a fearful deed, under the grey stone. Nor was Fitela with him. Still it happened to him that his sword pierced through the wondrous worm, and it stood in the wall, that doughty iron, and the dragon was dead. And so this monster had gained strength in that going so that he might enjoy the hoard of rings by his own doom. He loaded the sea-boat and bore the bright treasures on to the ship’s bosom, he the son of Waels. The worm melted hot. He was of wanderers the most widely famous in deeds of courage, amongst men, the protector of warriors. He formerly throve thus. Then the warfare of Heremod18 was waning, his strength and his courage, and he was betrayed among the giants into the hands of the foes, and sent quickly away. And too long did whelming sorrow vex his [67]soul. He was a source of care to his people, to all the nobles, and many a proud churl often was lamenting in former times the way of life of the stout-hearted, they who trusted him for the bettering of bales, that the child of their lord should always be prospering, and succeed to his father’s kingdom, and hold the folk, the hoard and city of refuge, the kingdom of heroes, the country of the Danes. But Beowulf Hygelac’s kinsman was fairer to all men; but crime assailed Heremod.19
Meanwhile, the famous warriors let the fallow mares leap and set out for the contest, wherever the pathways looked good to them and were well known for being choice spots. The king's thane, who was full of boasts, remembered songs and many old tales. He found different words, grounded in truth. A man began to wisely sing about Beowulf’s journey and tell skilled tales that flowed well, exchanging words. He recounted everything he had heard about Sigmund, with his acts of bravery, including the little-known struggle of Waelsing, and the wide travels that people didn’t know about—the feud and the wrongdoings, when Fitela wasn’t with him, when he would share such things as the uncle to the nephew, for they had always been comrades in need during their trials. They had brought down many giants with their swords. After his death, significant fame arose for Sigmund when he, the fierce warrior, killed the dragon that guarded the treasure. Alone, the child of the Atheling faced a dangerous deed beneath the grey stone. Fitela was not with him. Nonetheless, his sword pierced the wondrous dragon, and it stood in the wall, that brave iron, and the dragon was dead. Thus, the monster had gained power in that moment to enjoy the treasure by its own demise. He filled the ship and carried the bright treasures onto the ship’s deck, he, the son of Waels. The dragon melted away. Among wanderers, he was the most famous for his acts of bravery, the protector of warriors. He used to thrive like this. Then the strength and courage of Heremod began to fade, and he was betrayed among the giants into the hands of his enemies and swiftly sent away. The overwhelming grief troubled his soul for too long. He became a burden to his people, to all the nobles, and many a proud man lamented the life of the brave, those who had trusted him to improve their fortunes, that the child of their lord would always thrive, succeed to his father’s kingdom, and safeguard the people, the treasure, and the city of refuge, the kingdom of heroes, the land of the Danes. But Beowulf, Hygelac’s kinsman, was more revered than any man; however, crime plagued Heremod.
Sometimes they passed along the fallow streets contending on mares. Then came the light of morning and hastened forth. And many a stiff-minded messenger went to the high hall to see the rare wonder. Likewise the King himself, the ward of the hoard of rings, came treading all glorious and with a great suite, forth from the bridal bower, and choice was his bearing, and his Queen with him passed along the way to the Mead-hall with a troop of maidens.
Sometimes they rode along the empty streets on their horses, competing with each other. Then morning light appeared, urging everyone to move quickly. Many stiff-faced messengers went to the grand hall to witness the unusual sight. Also, the King himself, the guardian of the treasure of rings, came out in all his glory with a large entourage, stepping out from the bridal chamber, and his demeanor was impressive. His Queen walked alongside him towards the Mead-hall accompanied by a group of maidens.
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XIV
Hrothgar
spake. He went to the hall and stood on the threshold and saw the steep
roof all decked out with gold and the hand of Grendel. ‘Let
thanks be given quickly to God for this sight,’ said he.
‘Often I waited for the loathsome one, for the snares of Grendel.
May God always work wonder after wonder, He the Guardian of glory. It
was not long ago that I expected not a bettering of any woes for ever,
when, doomed to blood, this best of all houses stood all stained with
gore. Now has this Hero done a deed, through the power of the Lord,
which none of us formerly could ever perform with all our wisdom. Lo!
any woman who gave birth to such a son among human kind, may say, if
she yet live, that the Creator was gracious unto her in bearing of
children. [69]Now, O Beowulf, I will love thee in heart as my
son. Hold well to this new peace. Nor shall there be any lack of joys
to thee in the world, over which I have power. Full oft I for less have
meted out rewards and worshipful gifts to a meaner warrior, one weaker
in strife. Thou hast framed for thyself mighty deeds, so that thy doom
liveth always and for ever. May the All-wielder ever yield thee good as
He now doth.’
Hrothgar spoke. He went to the hall and stood at the entrance, seeing the steep roof richly adorned with gold and the hand of Grendel. "Let’s quickly give thanks to God for this sight," he said. "I often waited for the dreadful one, for the traps of Grendel. May God always perform miracle after miracle, He who is the Guardian of glory. Not long ago, I thought our troubles would never get better, as this finest of all halls stood stained with blood. Now this Hero has done something, through the power of the Lord, that none of us could ever accomplish with all our wisdom. Look! Any woman who has given birth to such a son among humans can say, if she still lives, that the Creator has been gracious to her in bearing children. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]Now, O Beowulf, I will love you in my heart as my son. Keep this new peace safe. There will be no shortage of joys for you in the world that I control. I've often awarded rewards and honorable gifts to lesser warriors, those weaker in battle. You have created mighty deeds for yourself, so that your legacy will live on forever. May the All-wielder always grant you good as He does now.”
Beowulf spake, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘We framed to fight that brave work with much favour, and hazarded a deed of daring and the might of the unknown. I quickly gave you to see the monster himself the enemy in his fretted armour ready to fall. I thought to twist him quickly with hard grip on a bed of slaughter so that he should lie in the throes of death, because of my hand-grip, unless he should escape with his body. But I could not cut off his going when the Creator willed it not. I cleft him not readily, that deadly fiend. He was too strong on his feet. Nevertheless [70]he left behind his hand as a life protection to show the track, his arm and his shoulders. But not by any means thus did that wretched creature get any help, nor by that did the evil-doer, brought low by sin, live any longer. But sorrow hath him in its fatal grip closely encompassed with baleful bands. There shall a man covered with sins be biding a mickle doom as the shining Creator will prescribe.’
Beowulf spoke, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘We prepared to fight that noble battle with great determination, risking a daring act against the unknown. I quickly showed you the monster himself, the enemy in his terrifying armor, ready to fall. I thought to take him down swiftly with a strong grip on the slaughter bed, so that he would lie dying because of my grip, unless he managed to escape with his body. But I couldn't stop him when the Creator didn’t allow it. I couldn’t defeat that deadly fiend easily. He was too strong on his feet. Nevertheless [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] he left behind his hand as a mark of survival, showing the path, his arm and shoulders. But that miserable creature found no help in that, nor did the sinner, brought low by wrongdoing, live any longer. But sorrow holds him tightly, bound with deadly chains. A man covered in sins will await a great doom as the shining Creator will decree.’
Then was the man silent, the son of Ecglaf, in his boasting speech about deeds of battle, when the Athelings looked at the hand high up on the roof, by the craft of the earl, and the fingers of the foe, there before each one. And each of the places of the nails was likest to steel, the claw of the heathen, the uncanny claw of the battle warrior. Every one was saying that no very good iron, of any of the brave ones, would touch him at all, that would bear away thence the bloody battle-hand of the monster.
Then the man fell silent, the son of Ecglaf, during his boastful speech about battle deeds, when the princes looked at the hand high up on the roof, crafted by the earl, and the enemy's fingers, right in front of each one. The places where the nails were looked like steel, the claw of the heathen, the eerie claw of the battle warrior. Everyone was saying that no good iron from any of the brave would dare to touch him at all, that it would not take away the bloody battle-hand of the monster.
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XV
Then was it
bidden that Hart should be decked by their hands on the inside. And
many there were of the men and wives who adorned that wine-hall the
guest-chamber. And the tapestries shone along the walls brocaded with
gold; many a wonderful sight for every man who stareth upon them. And
that bright dwelling was greatly marred, though within it was fast
bound with iron yet the door-hinges had sprung apart. The roof alone
escaped all safe and sound when the monster turned to flight despairing
of life and doomed for his crimes. Nor will it be easy to escape from
that fate, whosoever may try to, but he shall get by strife the ready
place of the children of men of the soul-bearers, who dwell upon earth,
by a fate that cannot be escaped where [72]his body shall sleep
after the banquet fast in the tomb.
Then it was commanded that Hart should be decorated inside by their hands. Many of the men and women adorned that wine hall, the guest chamber. The tapestries shone along the walls, woven with gold; it was a stunning sight for anyone who looked at them. And that bright dwelling was greatly damaged, though inside it was still secured with iron, yet the door hinges had come apart. The roof alone remained safe and sound when the monster fled, despairing of life and doomed for his crimes. Nor will it be easy to escape from that fate, whoever may try; they shall struggle to take the rightful place of the soul-bearers, the children of men, who dwell upon earth, by a fate that cannot be avoided, where [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]his body shall rest after the banquet, fast in the tomb.
Then was the time for Healfdene’s son to go into the hall, when the King himself would partake of the banquet. Nor have I ever heard tell that any people in greater numbers bore themselves better about their treasure-giver. And the wealthy ones sat down on the bench and rejoiced in their feeding. And full courteously their kinsmen took many a mead-cup, they the stout-hearted Hrothgar and Hrothulf in the high hall. And within was Hart filled with friends. And by no means were the Danes the while framing treacheries. Then the son of Healfdene gave to Beowulf the golden banner, the decorated staff banner as a reward for his conquest, and the helm and the byrny. And many a one saw the youth bear in front the bejewelled sword. Beowulf took the cup in the hall. Nor did he need to be ashamed of the fee-gift in the presence of warriors. Nor have I heard tell of many men giving to others on any ale-bench, four gifts gold-decked, in friendlier [73]fashion. The outside rim wound with wires gave protection to the head on the outer side around the crown of the helmet. So that many an heirloom20 could not hurt fiercely the helmet that was hardened by being plunged in cold water when the shield-warrior should attack the angry one. The Protector of earls commanded eight horses to be brought in under the barriers, with bridles gold plated. And a varicoloured saddle was fixed upon one of them, decked out with treasures, and this was the battle-seat of the high King when the son of Healfdene would be doing the sword-play. Never in the van did it fail the warrior so widely kenned when the helmets were falling. Then the Prince of the Danes gave to Beowulf the wielding of them both, of horses and weapons; and bade him well enjoy them. And thus in manly fashion the famous chieftain, the treasure-guardian of heroes, rewarded the battle onslaught [74]with horses and treasures so as no man can blame them, whoever will be saying rightly the truth.
Then it was time for Healfdene’s son to enter the hall, where the King himself would join the feast. I’ve never heard of any group of people behaving better towards their treasure-giver. The wealthy ones sat down on the benches, enjoying their meal. Courteously, their relatives shared many mead-cups, including the brave Hrothgar and Hrothulf in the great hall. Inside, Hart was full of friends. Meanwhile, the Danes were not plotting any treachery. The son of Healfdene presented Beowulf with a golden banner, an ornate staff banner as a reward for his victory, along with a helmet and a mail shirt. Many watched as the young man carried the jeweled sword in front of him. Beowulf took the cup in the hall and had no reason to be ashamed of the gifts in the presence of warriors. I haven’t heard of many men giving away four gold-decorated gifts on an ale-bench in a friendlier way. The outer rim, wound with wires, protected the crown of the helmet. Many heirlooms could not fiercely harm the helmet that was tempered by being soaked in cold water when the shield-warrior attacked the angry one. The Protector of earls ordered eight horses to be brought under the barriers, with gold-plated bridles. A colorful saddle was placed on one of them, adorned with treasures, serving as the battle seat of the high King when the son of Healfdene engaged in swordplay. It never failed to aid the well-known warrior when helmets fell. Then the Prince of the Danes granted Beowulf both the horses and the weapons and urged him to enjoy them. Thus, in a manly fashion, the renowned chieftain, the treasure-guardian of heroes, rewarded the combat with horses and treasures, so no man can justly blame them, whoever honestly tells the truth.
XVI
Then the Lord
of earls as he sat on the mead-bench gave glorious gifts to each one of
those who had fared with Beowulf over the ocean-ways, and heirlooms
they were; and he bade them atone for that one with gold whom formerly
Grendel had wickedly killed as he would have done more of them unless
Almighty God and the spirit of Beowulf had withstood Weird. The Creator
ruleth all of human kind, as still He is doing. And good understanding
is always the best thing, and forethought of mind. And he who long
enjoys here the world in these strife-days, shall be biding both
pleasant and loathsome fate. Then was there clamour and singing
together [75]in the presence of the battle-prince of Healfdene,
and the harp was sounded and a song often sung, when Hrothgar’s
scop would tell forth the hall-mirth as he sat on the mead-bench.
Then the lord of the nobles, as he sat on the mead-bench, gave magnificent gifts to each of those who had traveled with Beowulf across the sea, and they were heirlooms; he instructed them to compensate for the one lost to Grendel, who had wickedly killed him, as Grendel would have done to more of them if Almighty God and the spirit of Beowulf hadn't stood against fate. The Creator rules over all of humanity, just as He still does. Having good judgment is always the best thing, along with foresight. Those who enjoy the world for a long time during these tumultuous days will face both joyful and painful destinies. Then there was clamor and singing together [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] in the presence of Healfdene's battle-prince, and the harp was played, and a song was often sung when Hrothgar's bard would recount the festivities in the hall as he sat on the mead-bench.
‘When Fear was befalling the heirs of Finn,21 the hero of the Half-Danes, and Hnaef of the Danes must fall in the slaughter of the Frisian People. Not in the least did Hildeburh need to be praising the troth of the Jutes. For sinlessly was she deprived of her dear ones in the play of swords of children and brothers. By fate they fell, wounded by arrows. And she was a sad woman. Nor without reason did the daughter of Hoc22 mourn their doom. When morning light came, and she could see under the sky the murder of her kinsmen where she before in the world had the greatest of joy. For warfare took away all the thanes of Finn except a mere remnant, so that he could not in the place where they met fight any warfare at all with Hengest, nor [76]seize from the Prince’s thane the woful leavings by fighting. But they offered him terms, so that they all made other room for them on the floor, and gave them halls and a high seat that they might have half the power with the children of the Jutes; and the son of Folcwalda23 honoured the Danes every day with fee-givings, and bestowed rings on the troop of Hengest, yea, even great treasures plated with gold, so that he would be making the kin of the Frisians bold in the beer-hall. Then they swore on both sides a treaty of peace. Finn swore with Hengest and all without strife that he held in honour the woful remnant by the doom of the wise men, and that no man there by word or work should break the treaty, or ever annul it through treacherous cunning, though they followed the slayers of their Ring-giver, all bereft of their lord as was needful for them. But if any one of the Frisians by daring speech should bring to mind the murderous hate between them, then should [77]the edge of the sword avenge it. Then sworn was that oath, and massive gold was lifted up from the hoard. Then was Hnaef, the best of the warriors, of the bold Danes, ready on the funeral pyre. And the blood-stained shirt of mail was easily seen, the golden boar, in the midst of the flame, the iron-hard boar,24 and many an Atheling destroyed by wounds. Some fell on the field of death. Then Hildeburh commanded her very own son to be thrust in the flames of the pyre of Hnaef, his body to be burned and be put in the fire. And great was the moaning of the mother for her son, and dirge-like lamenting as the warrior ascended. And the greatest of slaughter-fires wound its way upwards towards the welkin and roared before the cavern. Heads were melting, wounds burst asunder. Then blood sprang forth from the wounds of the body. Flame swallowed all, that most cruel of ghosts, of both of those folk whom battle destroyed. Their life was shaken out.
‘When Fear came upon the heirs of Finn, the hero of the Half-Danes, Hnaef of the Danes fell in the slaughter of the Frisian People. Hildeburh had no reason to praise the loyalty of the Jutes. She was tragically robbed of her loved ones in the chaos of the battle involving children and brothers. By fate, they fell, struck by arrows. She was a grieving woman. The daughter of Hoc mourned their fate for good reason. When morning light broke, she saw under the sky the death of her kinsmen, where she once had the greatest joy in the world. War took away all of Finn's thanes except for a mere handful, so he couldn't engage in battle with Hengest, nor seize from the Prince's thane the tragic aftermath through fighting. Instead, they offered him terms, finding space for them on the floor, providing halls and a high seat so they could share power with the children of the Jutes. The son of Folcwalda honored the Danes daily with gifts and bestowed rings on Hengest's men, even great treasures adorned with gold, hoping to bolster the kin of the Frisians in the beer-hall. Then both sides swore a treaty of peace. Finn swore to Hengest and everyone without conflict that he honored the tragic remnant left by the wise men's decree, and no one there, by word or action, would break the treaty, or ever violate it through treachery, even if they pursued the slayers of their Ring-giver, all deprived of their lord as they needed to be. But if any of the Frisians, in daring words, should evoke the deadly hatred between them, then the sword's edge would avenge it. The oath was sworn, and heavy gold was lifted from the hoard. Then Hnaef, the best of the warriors of the brave Danes, was prepared on the funeral pyre. The blood-stained shirt of mail was clearly visible, the golden boar amidst the flames, the iron-hard boar, and many a nobleman destroyed by wounds. Some fell on the field of death. Then Hildeburh commanded her own son to be placed in the flames of Hnaef's pyre, to be burned and consumed by fire. The mother mourned deeply for her son, her lament echoing as the warrior ascended. The greatest of slaughter-fires rose towards the heavens and roared before the cave. Heads melted, wounds burst open. Blood flowed from the wounds of the bodies. Flames consumed all, the most cruel of spirits, of both clans whom battle had destroyed. Their lives were extinguished.
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XVII
Then
the warriors went forth to visit the dwellings which were bereft of
friends, and to look upon the land of the Frisians, the homesteads and
the high town. And Hengest was still dwelling with Finn, that
slaughter-stained winter, all bravely without strife. And he thought on
the homeland, though he could not be sailing his ringed ship over the
waters. The sea boiled with storm and waged war with the wind. And
winter locked up the ice-bound waves till yet another year came in the
court, as still it doth, which ever guards the seasons, and the
glory-bright weather. Then winter was scattered, and fair was the bosom
of the earth.25
And the [79]wanderer strove to go, the guest from
the court. And much more he thought of vengeance for the feud than of
the sea-voyage, as to how he could bring about an angry encounter, for
he bore in mind the children of the Jutes. And so he escaped not the
lot of mortals when Hunlafing did on his arm the best of swords, the
flashing light of the battle, whose edge was well known to the Jutes.
And dire sword-bale after befel the fierce-minded Finn, even in his
very own home, when Guthlaf and Oslaf lamented the grim grip of war and
the sorrow after sea-journeys, and were charging him with his share in
the woes. Nor could he hold back in his own breast his fluttering soul.
Then again was the hall adorned with the bodies of foemen, and Finn was
also slain, the King with his troop, and the Queen was taken. And the
warriors of the Danes carried to the ships all the belongings of the
earth-king, such as they could find in the homestead of Finn, of
ornaments and jewels. They bore away also the noble wife Hildeburh down
to the sea away [80]to the Danes, and led her to her
people.’
Then the warriors set out to visit the homes that were empty of friends and to see the land of the Frisians, the farms and the great town. Hengest was still living with Finn that grim winter, keeping things peaceful despite the circumstances. He thought of his homeland, even though he couldn't sail his decorated ship across the waters. The sea was turbulent, storming against the wind. Winter had frozen the waves until yet another year rolled in, as it always does, guarding the seasons and the bright weather. Then winter faded, and the earth looked beautiful again.25 And the [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]wanderer tried to go on, the guest from the court. He thought much more about revenge for the feud than about the sea journey, considering how he could provoke an angry battle, remembering the children of the Jutes. And he didn't escape the fate of mortals when Hunlafing gave him the finest sword, the shining light of battle, known well to the Jutes. A terrible battle then fell upon the fierce-minded Finn, even in his own home, when Guthlaf and Oslaf mourned the harsh grip of war and the pain after sea voyages, blaming him for his part in their troubles. He couldn't suppress his restless spirit. Again, the hall was filled with the bodies of enemies, and Finn was killed, the King with his men, and the Queen was taken. The warriors of the Danes carried to their ships everything they could find in Finn's home, including ornaments and jewels. They also brought the noble wife Hildeburh down to the sea [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]to the Danes, leading her back to her people.
So a song was sung, a lay of the gleemen, and much mirth there was and great noise from the benches. And cup-bearers offered wine from wondrous vessels. Then came forth Queen Wealtheow in her golden circlet, where the two good men were sitting, the uncle and his nephew. And still were they in peace together, and each true to the other. Likewise Unferth the Spokesman sat there at the foot of the Lord of the Danes. And each of them trusted Unferth’s good heart and that he had a great soul, though he was not loyal to his kinsmen at the sword-play.
So, a song was sung, a performance by the entertainers, and there was a lot of laughter and loud chatter from the seats. Cup-bearers poured wine from beautiful vessels. Then Queen Wealtheow came in her golden crown, where the two good men were sitting, the uncle and his nephew. They were still at peace with each other and remained true to one another. Unferth the Spokesman sat at the foot of the Lord of the Danes. Everyone trusted Unferth's good intentions and believed he had a great spirit, even though he wasn't loyal to his relatives during the sword fights.
Then spake the Queen of the Danes: ‘Take this cup, O my liege lord, thou giver of rings. Be thou right joyful, thou gold-friend to men; do thou speak mild words to the Geats, as a man should be doing. Be glad of thy Geats and mindful of gifts. Now thou hast peace both near and far. There is one who told me that thou wouldst have [81]the battle-hero for thy son. Now Hart is all cleansed, the bright hall of rings. Enjoy whilst thou mayest many rewards, and leave to thy kinsmen both folk and a kingdom when thou shalt go forth to look on eternity. I know my glad Hrothulf26 will hold in honour this youth if thou, O Hrothgar the friend of the Danes, dost leave the world earlier than he. I ween that he will yield good to our children if he remembers all that has passed—how we two worshipfully showed kindness to him in former days when he was but a child.’ Then she turned to the bench where were her sons Hrothric and Hrothmund and the children of heroes, the youths all together. There sat the good man Beowulf of the Geats, by the two brothers.
Then the Queen of the Danes said: ‘Take this cup, my dear lord, you who give rings. Be joyful, you who are a gold-friend to men; speak kind words to the Geats, as a man should. Be glad for your Geats and remember the gifts. Now you have peace both near and far. Someone told me that you wanted [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] the battle-hero as your son. Now Hart is all clean, the bright hall of rings. Enjoy many rewards while you can, and leave your kin both people and a kingdom when you go forth to face eternity. I know my dear Hrothulf26 will honor this youth if you, Hrothgar, friend of the Danes, leave this world before he does. I believe he will do good for our children if he remembers everything that has happened—how we both kindly cared for him in the past when he was just a child.’ Then she turned to the bench where her sons Hrothric and Hrothmund and the children of heroes were sitting, all the youths together. There sat the noble Beowulf of the Geats, beside the two brothers.
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XVIII
And the cup
was borne to them, and a friendly invitation given to them in words,
and twisted gold was graciously proffered him, two arm-ornaments,
armour and rings, and the greatest of neck-rings of which I heard tell
anywhere on earth. Ne’er heard I of better hoard jewels of heroes
under the sky, since Hama carried away the Brosinga-men27
to the bright city, ornaments and treasure vessel. It was he who fled
from the cunning plots of Eormanric28 and chose eternal gain.
Hygelac of the Geats next had the ring, he who was the grandson of
Swerting, when under the standard he protected the treasure and
defended the plunder. And Weird carried him off when he, because of
pride suffered woes, the feud with the Frisians. [83]Then
carried he the jewels, the precious stones over the sea, he who was the
ruling prince, and he fell under shield; and the life of the king and
the coat of mail and ring together came into possession of the Franks.
And worse warriors plundered the slaughter after the war. And the
corpses of the Geats held the field of death. The hall resounded with
noise when Wealtheow spake these words in the midst of the court:
Then they brought them the cup, and a friendly invitation was given in words, along with twisted gold that was graciously offered to him—two arm bracelets, armor, rings, and the greatest neck ring I’ve ever heard of anywhere on earth. I’ve never heard of better treasure among heroes under the sky, since Hama took the Brosinga-men27 to the bright city, along with ornaments and a treasure vessel. He was the one who escaped the clever schemes of Eormanric28 and opted for eternal gain. Next, Hygelac of the Geats had the ring; he was the grandson of Swerting, defending the treasure and guarding the loot under the standard. And Weird took him away when he faced woes due to pride, the conflict with the Frisians. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]Then he carried the jewels, the precious stones across the sea, he who was the ruling prince, but he fell in battle; and the life of the king, along with the mail shirt and ring, came into the possession of the Franks. Worse warriors looted the aftermath of the slaughter. The bodies of the Geats lay in the field of death. The hall echoed with noise as Wealtheow spoke these words in the middle of the court:
‘Enjoy this ring, dearest Beowulf, and use this coat of mail, these national treasures, and good luck befall thee! Declare thyself a good craftsman, and be to these boys gentle in teaching, and I will be mindful of thy guerdon for that thou hast so acted that men will esteem thee far and near for ever and ever, even as widely as the sea doth encompass the windy earth-walls. Be a noble Atheling as long as thou livest. I give thee many treasures. Be thou kindly in deed to my sons, joyful as thou art. For here is each earl true to his fellow, and mild of mood, and faithful to his liege-lord. [84]Thanes are gentle, the people all ready. O ye warriors who have drunk deep, do as I tell you.’ She went to the seat where was a choice banquet, and the men drank wine. They knew not Weird, the Fate that was grim, as it had befallen many an earl.
‘Enjoy this ring, dear Beowulf, and use this coat of mail, these national treasures, and may good luck come your way! Show yourself to be a skilled craftsman, and be gentle in teaching these boys, and I will remember your reward because you have acted in a way that will earn you respect far and wide, forever and ever, as broadly as the sea surrounds the windy earth. Be a noble prince for as long as you live. I give you many treasures. Be kind in action to my sons, happy as you are. For here every earl is true to his fellow, mild in spirit, and loyal to his lord. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]Thanes are gentle, and the people are all prepared. O you warriors who have drunk deeply, do as I tell you.’ She went to the table where there was a great feast, and the men drank wine. They didn't know of Weird, the grim Fate that had struck many an earl.
Then evening came on, and Hrothgar betook him to his own quarters, the Prince to his resting-place, and a great number of earls kept guard o’er the palace as often they had done in former days. They laid bare the bench-board and spread it over with beds and bolsters. And one of the beer-servants eager and fated went to his bed on the floor. And they set at his head war-shields, that were bright. And over the Atheling, there on the bench was easily seen the towering helmet and the ringed byrny, the glorious spear. It was their wont to be ready for war both at home and in battle, at whatever time their lord had need of them. The season was propitious.
Then evening came, and Hrothgar went to his own quarters, the Prince to his resting place, and a large number of earls kept watch over the palace as they often had in the past. They cleared the bench and laid out beds and pillows. One eager servant, destined for trouble, went to his bed on the floor. They set bright war shields at his head. And above the Prince, on the bench, the towering helmet and the ringed mail shirt, along with the glorious spear, were clearly visible. It was their custom to be ready for battle both at home and in the field, whenever their lord needed them. The time was right.
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XIX
Then they
sank down to sleep. And sorely some of them paid for their evening
repose, as full often it had happened to them since Grendel came to the
gold-hall and did evil, until an end was made of him, death after sins.
It was easily seen and widely known to men that an avenger survived the
loathsome one, for a long time after the war-sorrow. A woman, the
mother of Grendel, a terrible wife, bore in mind her woes. She who was
fated to dwell in the awful lake in the cold streams since Cain became
a sword-slayer to his only brother, his father’s son. He then
went forth marked for the murder, and fled from human joys and dwelt in
the waste. And thence he awoke many a fatal demon. And Grendel
[86]was one of them, the hateful fierce wolf, who
found the man wide awake awaiting the battle. And there was the monster
at grips with him, yet he remembered the main strength the wide and
ample gift which God gave to him, and trusted in the favour of the
Almighty for himself, for comfort and help by which he vanquished the
enemy and overcame the hell-sprite. Then he departed abject, bereft of
joy, to visit the death-place, he the enemy of mankind.
Then they settled down to sleep. And some of them paid dearly for their evening rest, as had often happened since Grendel came to the gold-hall and caused trouble, until his end came, death after his sins. It was clear and well-known to people that an avenger remained after the loathsome one, for a long time following the war’s sorrow. A woman, Grendel’s mother, a fearsome figure, remembered her grief. She was destined to live in the dreadful lake in the cold waters ever since Cain became a killer of his own brother, his father’s son. He then went out marked for murder, fleeing from human joys to reside in the wasteland. From there, he awakened many a deadly demon. And Grendel was one of them, the hateful, fierce wolf, who found the man wide awake, ready for battle. The monster grappled with him, yet he remembered the great strength and abundant gift that God had given him, and he relied on the favor of the Almighty for comfort and help, through which he defeated the enemy and overcame the hellish spirit. Then he left, broken and joyless, to visit the place of death, he being the enemy of mankind.
But his mother, greedy and sad in mind would be making a sorrowful journey that she might avenge the death of her son. She came then to Hart, where the Ring-Danes were asleep in that great hall. Then soon there came misfortune to the earls when the mother of Grendel entered the chamber. Yet less was the terror, even by so much as the craft of maidens, the war-terror of a wife,29 is less than that of men beweaponed—when the sword hard bound and forged by the hammer, and stained with blood, cuts the boar on the helmet [87]of the foe with its edge. Then in the hall, the hard edge was drawn, the sword over the seats, and many a broad shield, heaved up fast by the hand. And no one heeded the helmet nor the broad shield when terror seized upon them. She was in great haste, she would go thence her life to be saving when she was discovered. Quickly she had seized one of the Athelings fast in her grip when forth she was fleeing away to the fen-land. He was to Hrothgar the dearest of heroes, in the number of his comrades by the two seas, a powerful shield-warrior, whom she killed as he slumbered, a youth of renown. Beowulf was not there. To another the place was assigned after the treasure-gift had been bestowed on the famous Geat. Then a great tumult was made in Hart, and with bloodshed she had seized the well-known hand of Grendel her son. And care was renewed in all the dwellings. Nor was that a good exchange that they on both sides should be buying with the lives of their friends.
But his mother, filled with greed and sorrow, set out on a painful journey to avenge her son's death. She arrived at Hart, where the Ring-Danes were sleeping in the great hall. Soon, disaster struck the earls when Grendel's mother entered the chamber. Yet the fear was lessened, especially by the cunning of women; the war-fear that a wife brings is less than that of armed men—when a sword, tightly bound and forged by the hammer, stained with blood, cuts through the boar on the helmet of the enemy with its blade. Then in the hall, the sharp edge was drawn, the sword raised over the seats, and many broad shields were quickly lifted by hand. No one noticed the helmet or the shields when terror gripped them. She was in a great hurry, wanting to escape to save her life when she was discovered. She quickly grabbed one of the Athelings tightly as she fled to the fen-land. He was Hrothgar's most beloved hero among his comrades by the two seas, a powerful shield-warrior, whom she killed as he slept, a youth of great fame. Beowulf was not there. Another took his place after the treasure-gift had been given to the famous Geat. Then a great uproar broke out in Hart, and with bloodshed, she claimed the well-known hand of her son, Grendel. Worry returned to all the dwellings. It was not a good trade for them to be paying with the lives of their friends.
Then was the wise King, the hoar [88]battle-warrior, rough in his mood when he came to know that the dearest of his chief thanes was dead and bereft of life. And Beowulf quickly was fetched into the bower, he, the man all victorious. And at the dawning went one of the earls, a noble champion, he and his comrades, where the proud man was waiting, to see whether the All-wielder will ever be causing a change after woe-spells. And the battle-worthy man went along the floor with his band of followers (the hall wood30 was resounding) so that he greeted the wise man with words, the Lord of the Danes, and asked him if he had had a quiet night in spite of the pressing call.
Then there was the wise King, the gray-haired battle-warrior, rough in his mood when he learned that his dearest chief thane was dead and gone. Beowulf was quickly brought into the hall, he, the victorious man. And at dawn, one of the earls, a noble champion, along with his comrades, went to where the proud man was waiting, to see if the All-wielder would ever bring about a change after the hardships. The battle-ready man made his way across the floor with his group of followers (the hall wood was resounding) so that he could greet the wise man, the Lord of the Danes, and ask him if he had any peaceful moments during the night despite the pressing troubles.
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XX
Hrothgar
spake, he the Lord of the Danes: ‘Ask not after our luck, for
sorrow is renewed to the folk of the Danes. Aeschere is dead, the elder
brother of Yrmenlaf; he was my councillor and my rune-teller,31
my shoulder-companion when we in the battle protected our heads; when
troops were clashing and helmets were crashing. He was what an earl
ought to be, a very good Atheling. Such a man was Aeschere. And a
wandering slaughter-guest was his hand-slayer, in Hart. I know not
whither that dire woman exulting in carrion, and by her feeding made
famous, went on her journeys. She was wreaking vengeance for the feud
of thy making when thou killedst Grendel but yesternight, in a
[90]violent way, with hard grips, because all too long
he was lessening and destroying my people. He fell in the struggle,
gave his life as a forfeit; and now comes another, a mighty
man-scather, to avenge her son, and the feud hath renewed as may seem a
heavy heart-woe to many a thane who weeps in his mind over the
treasure-giver. Now lieth low the hand which availed you well, for
every kind of pleasure. I heard land-dwellers, and hall-counsellors,
and my people, say that they saw two such monstrous
March-steppers,32 alien-sprites, holding the moorland. And one
of them was in the likeness of a woman as far as they could tell; the
other, shapen wretchedly, trod the path of exiles in the form of a man,
except that he was greater than any other man, he whom in former days
the earth-dwellers called by name Grendel. They knew not his father,
whether any secret sprite was formerly born of him. They kept guard
over the hidden land, and the [91]wolf-slopes, the windy nesses, the
terrible fen-path where the mountain streams rush down under mists of
the nesses, the floods under the earth. And it is not farther hence
than the space of a mile where standeth the lake, over which are
hanging the frosted trees, their wood fast by the roots, and shadowing
the water. And there every night one may see dread wonders, fire on the
flood. And there liveth not a wise man of the children of men who
knoweth well the ground. Nevertheless the heath-stepper, the
strong-horned hart, when pressed by the hounds seeketh that woodland,
when put to flight from afar, ere on the hillside, hiding his head he
gives up his life.33
Hrothgar spoke, the Lord of the Danes: ‘Don’t ask about our fortune, for sorrow has returned to the Danes. Aeschere is dead, the older brother of Yrmenlaf; he was my adviser and my rune-reader, my companion in arms when we fought to protect ourselves; when armies clashed and helmets shattered. He was exactly what a nobleman should be, an excellent Atheling. That was Aeschere. And his killer, a wandering destroyer, stalked him in Hart. I don’t know where that dreadful woman, who rejoices in corpses and made a name for herself through her feasting, went on her journeys. She was seeking revenge for the feud you created when you killed Grendel last night, violently and with fierce strength, because he had been harming and killing my people for far too long. He fell in battle, giving his life as payment; and now another, a powerful man-slayer, comes to avenge her son, and the feud has reignited, causing heavy sorrow for many thanes who mourn in their hearts for the treasure-giver. Now lies low the hand that was always there for you, bringing every kind of joy. I heard the locals, the hall advisers, and my people say that they saw two monstrous creatures in the marshlands, alien beings, roaming the moorland. One of them appeared to be a woman as far as they could tell; the other, grotesquely formed, walked the path of outcasts in the shape of a man, except he was larger than any other man, the one whom the earth-dwellers once called Grendel. They didn’t know his father, if any hidden creature had once been born of him. They guarded the hidden land, the wolf-slopes, the windy hills, the terrifying fen-path where mountain streams rush down under the mists, the floods beneath the earth. And it’s not more than a mile from here where the lake stands, covered with frost-bitten trees, their roots gripping the earth and casting shadows over the water. There, every night, you can see terrifying wonders, fire on the water. And no wise man among the children of men knows that ground well. Still, the stag with strong horns, when pressured by hounds, seeks that woodland, and when driven away from afar, he hides his head on the hillside and gives up his life.33
‘Nor is that a canny place. For thence the surge of waters riseth up wan to the welkin when stirred by the winds, the loathsome weather, until the heaven darkens and skies weep. Now is good counsel depending on thee alone. Thou knowest not the land, the terrible [92]places where thou couldest find the sinful man; seek it if thou darest. I will reward thee for the feud with old world treasures so I did before, with twisted gold, if thou comest thence, on thy way.’
‘That’s not a safe place. From there, the waves rise pale to the sky when the winds pick up, bringing miserable weather until the heavens darken and the skies cry. Now the best advice relies solely on you. You don’t know the land, the dreadful [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]places where you might find the wicked man; go ahead and look for it if you’re brave enough. I will reward you for the conflict with treasures from the old world, just as I did before, with gold if you return from there, on your journey.’
XXI
Beowulf
spake, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘Sorrow not, O wise man. It is better
for each one to avenge his friend, when he is much mourning. Each one
of us must wait for the end of his world-life. Let him work who may,
ere the doom of death come; that is afterwards best for the noble dead.
Arise, O ward of the kingdom. Let us go forth quickly to trace out the
going of Grendel’s kinswoman. I bid thee do it. For neither in
the bosom of the earth, nor in forests of the mountains, nor by the
[93]ways of the sea, go where she will, shall she
escape into safety. Do thou this day be patient in every kind of
trouble as I also hope to be.’ The old man leapt up and gave
thanks to God, the mighty Lord, for the words of Beowulf.
Beowulf said, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘Don’t be sad, wise man. It’s better for everyone to avenge their friend when they’re grieving. We all must wait for the end of our lives. Let those who can, act before death comes; that’s what’s best for the noble dead afterwards. Rise, protector of the kingdom. Let’s hurry to find Grendel’s mother. I urge you to do this. She won’t find safety, whether she hides in the depths of the earth, in the mountain forests, or by the [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]seas. Today, you must be patient in all kinds of trouble, as I also hope to be.’ The old man stood up and thanked God, the mighty Lord, for Beowulf’s words.
Then was bridled a horse for Hrothgar, a steed with twisted hair, and as a wise prince he went forth in splendid array. The troop of shield-warriors marched along. And the traces were widely seen in the forest-ways, the goings of Grendel’s mother over the ground. Forwards she had gone over the mirky moorlands, and had borne in her grasp, bereft of his soul, the best of the thanes who were wont to keep watch over Hrothgar’s homestead. Then Beowulf, the Atheling’s child, stepped o’er the steep and stony slopes and the narrow pathways, and the straitened single tracks, an unknown way, by the steep nesses, and by many a sea-monster’s cavern. And one of the wise men went on before to seek out the path, until all at once he found some mountain trees, overhanging the grey stones, a [94]forest all joyless. And underneath was a water all bloodstained and troubled. And a grievous thing it was for all the Danes to endure, for the friends of the Scyldings,34 and for many a thane, and distressful to all the earls, when they came upon the head of Aeschere on the cliffs above the sea. The flood boiled with blood and with hot gore (the folk looked upon it). And at times the horn sounded a battle-song ready prepared.
Then a horse was saddled for Hrothgar, a steed with tangled hair, and as a wise prince, he rode out in splendid attire. The group of shield-warriors marched along. The tracks were clearly visible in the forest paths, marking the movements of Grendel’s mother across the ground. She had traveled over the dark moors, carrying in her grasp, devoid of his soul, the finest of the warriors who used to guard Hrothgar’s home. Then Beowulf, the prince’s son, stepped over the steep and rocky slopes and narrow paths, taking an unknown route, by the steep cliffs, and past many a sea monster’s den. One of the wise men led the way to find the path until he suddenly spotted some mountain trees hanging over the gray stones, a [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]forest that was all dreary. Below was a water all stained with blood and disturbed. It was a terrible sight for all the Danes to bear, for the friends of the Scyldings, 34 and for many thanes, and distressing for all the earls, when they discovered Aeschere's head on the cliffs above the sea. The water churned with blood and hot gore (the people looked upon it). And at times, the horn sounded a battle song that was ready to go.
All the troop sat down. And many kinds of serpents they saw in the water, and wonderful dragons searching the sea, and on the cliff-slopes, monsters of the ocean were lying at full length, who at the morning tide often make a woful journey on the sail-path; and snakes and wild beasts they could see also. And these living things fell down on the path all bitter and angry when they perceived the noise, and the blast of the war-horn. And the Prince of the Geats killed one of them with his bow and arrows and ended his wave-strife, and he was in the sea, slower at swimming [95]as death swept him away. And on the waves by fierce battle hard pressed, and with boar-spears savagely barbed, the wondrous sea-monster was assailed in the struggle and drawn up on the headland. And men were looking at the awful stranger. And Beowulf put on him his armour, that was fitting for an earl, and by no means did he lament over his life, for the hand-woven coat of mail, which was ample and of many colours, was destined to explore the deeps, and knew well how to defend his body, so that neither battle-grip nor the hostile grasp of the treacherous one might scathe breast or life; and the white helmet thereof warded his head, that which was destined to search out the bottom of the sea and the welter of waters, and which was adorned with treasures and encircled with noble chains, wondrously decked and set round with boar-images, as in days of yore a weapon-smith had made it for him, so that no brand nor battle-sword could bite him. And by no means was that the least of aids in [96]battle that the Spokesman of Hrothgar35 lent him at need, even the hilted sword which was called Hrunting. And it was one of the ancient treasures. Its edge was of iron, and poison-tipped, and hardened in battle-sweat. And never did it fail in the fight any man who brandished it in his hands, or who dared to go on fearful journeys, to the field of battle. And that was not the first time that it was to do deeds of courage. And Unferth did not think, he the kinsman of Ecglaf, crafty of strength, of what he formerly had said36 when drunken with wine, he had lent that weapon to a braver sword-warrior. He himself durst not risk his life in the stress of the waters and do a glorious deed. And thereby he lost his doom of famous deeds. But thus was it not with that other, for he had got himself ready for the battle.
All the troops sat down. They saw many kinds of snakes in the water and amazing dragons searching the sea, and on the cliff slopes, ocean monsters were lying down, who often made a sorrowful journey on the sail-path at morning tide; they could also see snakes and wild beasts. These creatures fell onto the path, bitter and angry, when they heard the noise and the sound of the war horn. The Prince of the Geats shot one of them with his bow and arrows, putting an end to his struggle, and he was in the sea, moving slower as death took him away. On the waves, under fierce attack and armed with savage boar-spears, the marvelous sea monster was engaged in battle and pulled up onto the shore. The men were watching this dreadful creature. Beowulf put on armor that was fitting for a nobleman, and he did not mourn for his life; the hand-woven mail coat, which was large and colorful, was meant to explore the depths and knew well how to protect his body, so that neither the grip of battle nor the treacherous hold of an enemy could harm his chest or life; and the white helmet protected his head, made for venturing into the sea's bottom and turbulent waters, decorated with treasures and surrounded by noble chains, wonderfully adorned with images of boars, as it had been crafted for him long ago by a weapon-smith, so that no sword could pierce him. And not the least of the aids in battle was what Hrothgar’s spokesman lent him in his time of need: the sword with the hilt named Hrunting. It was one of the ancient treasures. Its edge was made of iron, poison-tipped, and hardened in the sweat of battle. It never failed any man who wielded it or who dared to venture into deadly confrontations on the battlefield. It was not the first time it had performed deeds of courage. Unferth, Ecglaf's kinsman, known for his cunning strength, did not consider what he had said before when drunk with wine, as he had lent that weapon to a bolder warrior. He himself did not dare to risk his life in the challenges of the water or perform a glorious deed. Thus, he lost his chance for glory. But it was not the same for the other, as he had prepared himself for battle.
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XXII
Beowulf
spake, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘O kinsman of Healfdene,37
thou far-famed and proud prince, thou gold-friend of men, now that
eager I am for this forth-faring, bethink thee now of what we two were
speaking together, that if I should lose my life through helping thee
in thy need, thou wouldst be always to me in the place of a father
after my death. Be thou a guardian to my kinsmen, my thanes, and my
hand comrades, if battle should take me. And dear Hrothgar, send thou
the gifts, which thou didst give me, to Hygelac. And the Lord of the
Geats, the son of Hrethel, when he looks on the treasure and perceives
the gold, will see that I found a giver of rings, one good and
open-handed, and that while I could, [98]I enjoyed the treasures.
And do thou let Unferth, the man who is far-famed, have the old
heirloom, the curiously wrought sword with its wave-like device, with
its hard edge. I work out my fate with Hrunting, or death shall seize
me.’
Beowulf spoke, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘O kinsman of Healfdene, 37 you famous and proud prince, you gold-friend of men, now that I'm eager for this journey, think about what we discussed, that if I should lose my life helping you in your time of need, you would always be like a father to me after my death. Please protect my kin, my warriors, and my close friends if battle takes me. And dear Hrothgar, send the gifts you gave me to Hygelac. The Lord of the Geats, the son of Hrethel, when he sees the treasure and recognizes the gold, will know that I found a generous giver of rings, someone kind and open-handed, and that while I could, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] I enjoyed the treasures. And please let Unferth, the well-known man, have the old heirloom, the beautifully crafted sword with its wavy design and sharp edge. I will face my fate with Hrunting, or death will claim me.’
After these words the Lord of the Weder-Geats courageously hastened, and by no means would he wait for an answer. The whelming sea received the battle-hero. And it was a day’s while before he could see the bottom of the sea. And very soon the fierce and eager one who had ruled the expanse of the floods for a hundred years, she, the grim and greedy, saw that a man was searching out from above the dwelling of strange monsters. Then she made a grab at him, and closed on the warrior with dire embrace. But not at first did she scathe his body, safe and sound. The ring surrounded it on the outside, so that she could not pierce the coat of mail or the interlaced war-shirt with loathsome finger. Then the sea-wolf, when she came to the bottom of the sea, bore the Ring-Prince towards her house so that [99]he might not, though he was so strong in soul, wield any weapon; and many a wonder oppressed him in the depths, many a sea-beast broke his war-shirt with his battle-tusks, and monsters pursued him.
After these words, the Lord of the Weder-Geats bravely rushed forward, not waiting for a response. The overwhelming sea took the battle-hero. It was a full day before he could see the ocean floor. Soon, the fierce and eager creature that had ruled the waters for a hundred years, the grim and greedy one, noticed a man searching from above the lair of strange monsters. She lunged at him and wrapped her deadly grip around the warrior. But at first, she didn't harm his body, which remained safe and sound. The armor protected him, preventing her slimy fingers from piercing through the chainmail or the woven war-shirt. Then, when the sea-wolf reached the ocean floor, she dragged the Ring-Prince towards her lair so that he, despite his strong spirit, couldn’t use any weapons. Many wonders weighed heavily on him in the depths; countless sea creatures tore at his war-shirt with their battle tusks, and monsters chased after him.
Then the earl saw that he was in he knew not what hall of strife, where no water scathed him a whit, nor could the sudden grip of the flood touch him because of the roof-hall. He saw, too, a firelight, a bright pale flame shining. Then the good man caught sight of the she-wolf, that monstrous wife, down in the depths of the sea. And he made a mighty rush with his sword. Nor did his hand fail to swing it so that the ringed mail on her head sang a greedy death-song. Then Beowulf the stranger discovered that the battle-blade would not bite or scathe her life, but the edge failed the lord in his need. It had suffered many hand-blows, and the helmet, the battle-dress of the doomed one, it had often cut in two. That was the first time that his dear sword-treasure failed him. Then he became resolute, [100]and not by any means did he fail in courage, that kinsman of Hygelac, mindful of glory. And this angry warrior threw away the stout sword, bound round with jewels with its wavy decorations, and with its edge of steel, so that it lay prone on the ground; and henceforth he trusted in his strength and the hand-grasp of might. So should a man be doing when he thinketh to be gaining long-lasting praise in fighting, and careth not for his life. Then the Lord of the Geats seized by the shoulder the mother of Grendel (nor at all did he mourn over that feud), and he, the hard in battle, threw down his deadly foe, when he was angry, so that she lay prone on the floor. But she very quickly, with grimmest of grips, requited him a hand-reward, and made a clutch at him. And the weary in soul, that strongest of fighters, he the foot-warrior stumbled and fell. Then she sat on that hall-guest, and drew forth her axe, broad and brown-edged, and would fain be avenging the death of her child, of her only son. But on his shoulder was the coat of mail all [101]woven, which saved his life and prevented the entrance of the point and the edge of the sword. And the son of Ecgtheow, the Prince of Geats, would have surely gone a journey under the wide earth unless that warlike coat of mail had given him help, that hard war-net, and unless the Holy God He the cunning Lord, and the Ruler in the heavens, had wielded the victory, and easily decided the issue aright; then he straightway stood up.
Then the earl realized he was in an unknown hall of conflict, where no water harmed him at all, nor could the sudden rush of the flood reach him because of the roof above. He also saw a flickering flame, a bright pale light shining. Then the brave man spotted the she-wolf, that monstrous wife, deep in the sea. He charged fiercely with his sword. His hand did not fail to swing it so that the ringed mail on her head sang a greedy death song. But Beowulf the stranger found that the battle-blade wouldn't bite or harm her at all; the edge failed the lord in his hour of need. It had endured many blows, and the helmet, the battle gear of the doomed one, it had often cut in half. That was the first time his cherished sword had let him down. Yet he remained determined, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]and he did not lack courage, being a kinsman of Hygelac, focused on glory. This angry warrior threw away the sturdy sword, adorned with jewels and wavy designs, leaving it lying on the ground; from then on, he relied on his strength and sheer power. A man should act this way if he hopes to earn lasting fame in battle and doesn't care for his life. Then the Lord of the Geats grabbed Grendel's mother by the shoulder (and he didn't mourn the feud at all), and he, fierce in battle, threw down his deadly enemy in anger so that she lay flat on the floor. But she quickly, with the most brutal grip, paid him back with a hand-reward and lunged at him. The weary of spirit, that strongest of fighters, the foot-soldier stumbled and fell. Then she sat on that hall-guest, drew her wide, brown-edged axe, and sought to avenge the death of her only son. But on his shoulder was the well-woven mail coat that saved his life, preventing the point and edge of the sword from reaching him. The son of Ecgtheow, the Prince of Geats, would surely have journeyed under the wide earth if that battle-ready coat of mail hadn't protected him, that tough war-net, and if the Holy God, the clever Lord and Ruler of heaven, hadn't granted him victory and easily resolved the situation; then he immediately stood up.
XXIII
Then among
the weapons he caught sight of a sword, rich in victories, an old
weapon of the giants, and doughty of edge, the glory of warriors. It
was the choicest of weapons, and it was greater than any other man
could carry to the battle-playing, [102]and all glorious and good, a
work of the giants. And he seized it by the belted hilt, he the warrior
of the Danes, rough and battle-grim, and he brandished the ring-sword;
and despairing of life, he angrily struck so that hardly he grasped at
her neck and broke the bone-rings. And the point pierced through the
doomed flesh-covering. And she fell on the floor. The sword was all
bloody, and the man rejoiced in his work. Shone forth the bright flame
and a light stood within, even as shineth the candle38 from the
bright heavens. And then he looked on the hall, and turned to the wall.
And the thane of Hygelac, angry and resolute, heaved hard the weapon,
taking it by the hilt. And the edge was not worthless to the
battle-warrior, for he would be quickly requiting Grendel many a
war-rush which he had done upon the West Danes, many times oftener than
once when in sleeping he smote the hearth-comrade of Hrothgar, and fed
on them sleeping, of the Danish folk, some fifteen [103]men,
and bore forth yet another one, that loathly prey. And well he requited
him, this furious champion, when he saw the war-weary Grendel lying in
death, all void of his life as formerly in Hart the battle had scathed
him. His body sprang apart when after his death he suffered a stroke, a
hard battle-swing; and then he struck off his head.
Then among the weapons, he noticed a sword, celebrated for its victories, an ancient weapon of the giants, sharp and proud, the pride of warriors. It was the finest of weapons, greater than any other man could wield in battle, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]glorious and exceptional, crafted by giants. He grasped it by the hilt, he, the warrior of the Danes, tough and battle-hardened, and he swung the sword with fury; in desperation for life, he struck so fiercely that he barely managed to grip its neck and broke the bone-rings. The tip pierced through the doomed flesh. She collapsed to the ground. The sword was covered in blood, and the man took joy in his deed. A bright flame blazed, and a light shone from within, just like a candle38 glowing in the bright heavens. Then he looked around the hall and turned to the wall. The thane of Hygelac, angry and determined, lifted the weapon, gripping it by the hilt. The edge was sharp enough for the warrior, as he would soon repay Grendel for many attacks he had made on the West Danes, far more times than once when in his sleep he struck down Hrothgar's warriors and fed on the sleeping Danish folk, some fifteen [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]men, and carried away yet another loathsome victim. And he avenged them well, this fierce champion, when he saw the battle-weary Grendel lying dead, completely lifeless, just as he had before in Hart when the battle had wounded him. His body came apart when he was struck after death, a heavy swing of the sword; and then he beheaded him.
Right soon the proud warriors, they who with Hrothgar, looked forth on the sea, could easily see, that the surging water was all stained with blood and the grey-haired ancients spoke together about the good man, that they deemed not the Atheling would ever again come seeking the famous Prince Hrothgar glorying in victory, for it seemed unto many that the sea-wolf had destroyed him.
Right away, the proud warriors, those who stood with Hrothgar, looked out at the sea and could easily see that the raging water was stained with blood. The old men talked among themselves about the good man, believing that the Atheling would never again come seeking the famous Prince Hrothgar, celebrating his victory, because many thought that the sea-wolf had killed him.
Then came noonday. The valiant Danes left the headland, and the gold-friend of men39 went homeward thence. And the strangers of the Geats, sick in mind, sat and stared at the water. They knew and expected not that they would [104]see again their liege-lord himself. Then the sword began to grow less, after the battle-sweat, into icicles of steel. And a wonder it was that it all began to melt likest to ice, when Our Father doth loosen the band of frost and unwinds the icicles, He who hath power over the seasons, He is the true God. Nor in these dwellings did the Lord of the Geats take any other treasure, though much he saw there, except the head and the hilt, decked out with jewels. The sword had melted, and the decorated weapon was burnt up. The blood was too hot, and so poisonous the alien sprite who died in that conflict. Soon Beowulf was swimming, he who formerly awaited the onset of the hostile ones in the striving, and he dived upwards through the water. And the weltering surge and the spacious lands were all cleansed when the alien sprite gave up his life and this fleeting existence.
Then noon arrived. The brave Danes left the headland, and the gold-friend of men 39 headed home. Meanwhile, the Geatish warriors, troubled and anxious, sat and stared at the water. They knew and didn’t expect they would [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] see their lord again. Then the sword started to lose its heat, after the battle-sweat, turning into icy steel. It was remarkable how everything began to melt like ice, just as Our Father loosens the grip of frost and unwinds the icicles; He who controls the seasons is the true God. In those dwellings, the Lord of the Geats didn’t take any other treasure, even though he saw plenty, except for the head and the hilt, adorned with jewels. The sword had melted away, and the decorated weapon was burned up. The blood was too hot, and the foreign creature who died in that battle was so poisonous. Soon Beowulf was swimming, he who once awaited the attack of the enemies in the struggle, and he dove upward through the water. And the turbulent waves and the vast lands were all cleansed when the foreign creature gave up his life and this temporary existence.
He the stout-hearted came swimming to shore, he the Prince of the sea-men enjoying the sea-spoils, the great burden of that which he had with him. [105]They advanced towards him and gave thanks to God, that glorious crowd of thanes, and rejoiced in their lord that they could see him once more. Then was loosed quickly from that valiant man both helmet and shield. The sea became turbid, the water under welkin, all stained with blood. And rejoicing in spirit the brave men went forth with foot-tracks and passed over the earth, the well-known pathways. And a hard task it was for each one of those proud men to bear that head away from the sea-cliff. Four of them with difficulty on a pole were bearing the head of Grendel to the gold-hall, until suddenly, valiant and battle-brave, they came to the palace, fourteen of the Geats marching along with their liege-lord who trod the field where the mead-hall stood. Then this Prince of the thanes, this man so bold of deed and honoured by Fate, this battle-dear warrior went into the hall to greet King Hrothgar. Then over the floor where warriors were drinking they bore Grendel’s head, a terror to the earls and also to the Queen. And men [106]were looking at the splendid sight of the treasures.
He, the brave-hearted, swam to shore, the Prince of the sea-men, relishing the spoils from the sea and carrying the great burden he brought with him. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]They moved towards him, thanking God, that glorious crowd of thanes, rejoicing in their lord's return. Then, quickly, that valiant man removed both his helmet and shield. The sea turned murky, the water under the sky, all stained with blood. With spirits high, the brave men advanced with footprints, crossing the familiar paths on land. It was a tough job for each of those proud men to carry that head away from the sea-cliff. Four of them struggled with a pole to carry Grendel's head to the gold-hall, until they finally arrived at the palace, fourteen Geats marching alongside their lord who walked the ground where the mead-hall stood. Then this Prince of the thanes, this man known for his bold deeds and favored by Fate, this battle-honored warrior entered the hall to greet King Hrothgar. They carried Grendel’s head across the floor where warriors were drinking, a terrifying sight for the earls and the Queen. And men [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]were admiring the splendid sight of the treasures.
XXIV
Beowulf
spake, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘Lo, son of Healfdene, lord of the
Danes, we have brought thee this booty of the sea all joyfully, this
which thou seest as a token of glory. And I hardly escaped with my
life, and hazarded an arduous task of war under water. And nearly was
the battle ended for me, but that God shielded me. Nor could I in that
conflict do aught with Hrunting, though the weapon was doughty. But the
Ruler of men granted me to see hanging on the wall a beauteous sword
mighty and ancient (often He guides those who are bereft of their
comrades), and I drew the weapon. And I struck in that [107]striving the guardian of the house when I saw my
chance. Then that battle-sword that was all decked out, burned up so
that blood gushed forth, the hottest of battle-sweat. But I bore off
that hilt thence from the enemy, and wrought vengeance for the crimes,
the deaths of the Danes, as it was fitting. And here I bid thee to take
thy rest all sorrowless in Hart, with the troop of thy men and each of
the thanes of thy people, the youth and the doughty ones. O Lord of the
Danes, no longer need’st thou fear for them, because of
earls’ life-bale as before thou didst.’ Then was the golden
hilt, the work of the giants, given into the hand of the old warrior,
the hoary battle-chief. This work of the wonder-smiths went into the
possession of the Lord of the Danes after the destruction of devils;
and when the man of the fierce heart, the adversary of God guilty of
murder, forsook this world, it passed to the best of world-kings by the
two seas, of these who in Sceden Isle dealt out treasures. [108]
Beowulf spoke, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘Look, son of Healfdene, lord of the Danes, we have joyfully brought you this treasure from the sea, a symbol of glory. I barely escaped with my life, risking a tough battle underwater. The fight almost ended for me, but God protected me. I couldn’t do much with Hrunting, even though it was a strong weapon. But the Ruler of men allowed me to see a beautiful, ancient sword hanging on the wall (He often guides those who have lost their allies), and I took it. I struck the guardian of the house when I saw my opportunity. Then that decorated battle-sword burned with blood, the hottest of battle-sweat. But I took the hilt from the enemy and avenged the deaths of the Danes, as was right. Now I invite you to rest here without sorrow in Hart, with your men and all your warriors, the young and the brave. O Lord of the Danes, you no longer need to worry about their safety, as you did before.’ Then the golden hilt, crafted by giants, was given to the old warrior, the gray-haired battle chief. This work of skilled smiths came into the possession of the Lord of the Danes after the defeat of demons; and when the fierce-hearted man, the God-defying murderer, left this world, it passed to the greatest of world kings by the two seas, who in Sceden Isle distributed treasures. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
Hrothgar spake and looked upon the hilt, the old heirloom on which was written the beginning of the ancient feud since the flood, the all-embracing ocean slew the giant race, when they bore themselves presumptuously. They were a folk strangers to the eternal God, to whom the ruler gave their deserts through whelming of waters. Thus was there truly marked on the sword guards of shining gold, by means of rune-staves, set down and stated by whom that sword was wrought at the first, that choicest of weapons, with its twisted hilt, adorned with a dragon. Then spake the wise man the son of Healfdene, and all kept silence: ‘He who doeth truth and right among the folk, and he who can recall the far-off days, he the old protector of his country may say that this earl was well born. Thy fair fame is spread throughout the wide ways, among all peoples, O my friend Beowulf. Thou dost hold all with patience, and might, with the proud of mind. I will perform the compact as we two agreed. Thou shalt [109]be a lasting aid to thy people, a help to the heroes. Not so was Heremod40 to the sons of Egwela, the honour-full Danish folk.41 For he did not become a joy to them, but slaughter and death to the Danish people. But in a fury he killed the table-companions his boon comrades; until he alone, the famous chieftain, turned away from human joys. And though the mighty God greatly exalted him by the joys of strength over all people and rendered him help, yet a fierce hoard of hate grew up in his soul; no rings did he give to the Danes, as the custom was; and joyless he waited, so that he suffered troublesome striving and to his people a long time was baleful. Do thou be learning by that example and seek out manly virtues. I who am old in winters sing thee this song. And a wonder is it to say how the mighty God giveth wisdom to mankind through wideness of mind, lands, and earlship. He hath power over all. Sometimes [110]he letteth the thought of man of famous kith and kin be turning to love, and giveth him earth-joys in his own country, so that he holdeth the city of refuge among men, and giveth him to rule over parts of the world, and very wide kingdoms, so that he himself foolishly never thinketh of his end. He dwelleth in weal; and neither disease nor old age doth deceive him a whit, nor doth hostile sorrow darken his mind, nor anywhere do strife or sword-hate show themselves; but all the world doth go as he willeth.
Hrothgar spoke and looked at the hilt, the old heirloom on which the beginning of the ancient feud since the flood was inscribed. The all-encompassing ocean destroyed the giant race when they acted arrogantly. They were a people unfamiliar with the eternal God, to whom the ruler gave their due through overwhelming waters. Thus, it was clearly marked on the sword's shining golden guards, using runes, who crafted that sword at the start, the finest of weapons, with its twisted hilt adorned with a dragon. Then the wise man, the son of Healfdene, spoke, and everyone fell silent: ‘He who does what is right among the people, and who can recall the distant past, he, the old protector of his country, may say that this earl was well-born. Your good reputation spreads across the land, among all peoples, oh my friend Beowulf. You hold everything with patience and strength, alongside the proud-minded. I will fulfill the pact as we agreed. You shall be a lasting help to your people, a support to the heroes. Heremod was not so to the sons of Egwela, the honored Danish folk. He did not bring them joy but slaughter and death. In his rage, he killed his comrades, his table companions, until he alone, the famous chieftain, turned away from human pleasures. And though the mighty God greatly exalted him with strength over all people and granted him help, a fierce hatred grew in his soul; he did not give rings to the Danes, as was the custom; and joylessly he waited, suffering troubled strife, causing harm to his people for a long time. Learn from that example and seek out manly virtues. I, who have lived many winters, sing this song to you. It is remarkable to say how the mighty God gives wisdom to humanity through broad-mindedness, lands, and lordship. He has power over all. Sometimes he allows the thoughts of those of noble lineage to turn to love, granting them joys of the earth in their own lands, so that they hold a city of refuge among people, ruling over vast regions and great kingdoms, so that they themselves foolishly never consider their end. They live in happiness; neither illness nor old age deceives them at all, nor does sorrow overshadow their minds, nor do conflicts or hatred appear anywhere; rather, the whole world goes as they desire.
XXV
He
knoweth no evil until his share of pride wasteth and groweth, while
sleepeth the guardian, the ward of his soul. And the sleep is too deep,
bound up in afflictions, and the banesman draweth [111]near
who shooteth cruelly his arrows from the bow. Then in his soul under
helmet is he stricken with bitter shaft. Nor can he save himself from
the crooked behests of the cursed ghost. And little doth he think of
that which long he hath ruled. And the enemy doth covet, nor at all
doth he give in boast the plated rings, and he then forgetteth and
despiseth his fate his share of honour which God before gave him, He
the Wielder of wonder. And in the end it doth happen that the body
sinks fleeting and doomed to death falleth. And another succeeds
thereto who joyfully distributeth gifts, the old treasure of the earl,
and careth not for terrors. Guard thee against malicious hate, O my
dear Beowulf, thou noblest of men, and choose for thyself that better
part, eternal wisdom. Have no care for pride, O glorious champion. Now
is the fame of thy strength proclaimed for a while. Soon will it be
that disease or sword-edge or grasp of fire or whelming of floods or
grip of sword or flight of arrow or dire old age [112]will
sever thee from strength, or the lustre of thine eyes will fail or grow
dim. Then forthwith will happen that death will o’erpower thee, O
thou noble man. Thus have I for fifty years held sway over the
Ring-Danes under the welkin and made safe by war many a tribe
throughout the world with spears and swords, so that I recked not any
man my foeman under the sweep of heaven. Lo! then there came to me
change in my homeland, sorrow after gaming, when Grendel, that ancient
foe became my invader. And ever I bore much sorrow of mind through that
feud. And may God be thanked, the eternal lord, that I lingered in
life, till I looked with mine eyes on that head stained with
sword-blood after the old strife. Go now to thy seat and enjoy the
feasting, thou who art glorious in war. And when morning cometh there
shall be a host of treasures in common between us.’
He knows no evil until his pride wastes away and grows, while the guardian, the protector of his soul, sleeps. And the sleep is too deep, wrapped up in troubles, and the baneful one draws [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] near, cruelly shooting arrows from his bow. Then, deep within his soul, he is struck by a bitter shaft. Nor can he save himself from the twisted commands of the cursed spirit. And he pays little mind to what he has long ruled. The enemy covets, and he does not brag about the plated rings, forgetting and despising his fate, the share of honor that God once granted him, He the Wielder of Wonders. In the end, the body sinks, fleeting and doomed to death. Another will rise, joyfully distributing gifts, the old treasure of the earl, and caring not for fears. Protect yourself from malicious hate, O my dear Beowulf, you noblest of men, and choose for yourself the better path, eternal wisdom. Don't worry about pride, O glorious champion. Now the fame of your strength is proclaimed for a time. Soon, disease or the edge of a sword or the grasp of fire or the overwhelming of floods or the grip of a sword or the flight of an arrow or dire old age [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] will separate you from strength, or the sparkle in your eyes will fade. Then death will inevitably overpower you, O noble man. Thus, for fifty years I have ruled the Ring-Danes beneath the sky, ensuring safety for many tribes around the world with spears and swords, so that I did not fear any man under the heavens. Then came change in my homeland, sorrow after joy, when Grendel, that ancient enemy, became my invader. And I carried much sorrow in my heart through that feud. And may God be thanked, the eternal Lord, that I lived long enough to see with my own eyes that head stained with sword-blood after the old battle. Go now to your seat and enjoy the feast, you who are glorious in war. And when morning comes, there will be a host of treasures shared between us.’
And the Geat was glad of mind, and soon he went up to the high seat as the proud chief had bidden him. Then [113]renewed was fair chanting as before ’mongst these brave ones who sat on the floor. And the helmet of night grew dark over men. And the noble warriors arose. The venerable king wished to go to his bed, the old prince of the Danes. And the Geat, the shield-warrior, desired greatly to go to his rest. And straightway a hall-thane guided the far-comer, weary of his journey, he who so carefully attended to all his needs such as that day the ocean-goers would fain be having. And the great-hearted one rested himself. The House towered on high that was spacious and gold-decked. The guest slept within until the black raven heralded the joy of heaven.
And the Geat was in a good mood, so he soon went up to the high seat as the proud chief had told him to. Then [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] the fair chanting started again among the brave ones sitting on the floor. The night fell dark over the men. The noble warriors stood up. The old king, the prince of the Danes, wanted to go to bed. The Geat, the shield-warrior, was eager to rest too. Right away, a hall-thane guided the weary traveler, making sure all his needs were taken care of just like the ocean-goers wanted that day. The kind-hearted one settled in to rest. The hall towered high, spacious and decorated with gold. The guest slept until the black raven announced the joy of morning.
Then came the sun, hastening and shining over the earth. Warriors were hurrying and Athelings were eager to go to their people. The bold-hearted comer would visit the ship far away. He the hardy one bade the son of Ecglaf carry forth Hrunting, and commanded him to take his sword, that lovely piece of steel. And he gave [114]thanks for the lending, and said he reckoned him a good war-comrade and crafty in fighting. Not at all did he blame the edge of the sword. He was a proud man. When ready for the journey were all the warriors, then Beowulf the Atheling, of good worth to the Danes, went up to the dais where was Hrothgar the faithful and bold, and greeted him there.
Then the sun rose, bright and shining over the earth. Warriors were rushing, and noble youths were eager to join their people. The brave newcomer was set to visit a distant ship. He, the fearless one, asked Ecglaf's son to bring Hrunting and instructed him to take his sword, that beautiful piece of steel. He thanked him for the loan and said he considered him a good battle companion and clever in combat. He had no complaints about the sword's edge. He was a proud man. When all the warriors were ready for the journey, Beowulf the nobleman, valued by the Danes, approached the platform where Hrothgar, the loyal and courageous king, was and greeted him there.
XXVI
Beowulf
spake, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘Now we the sea-farers, that have
come from afar, desire to say that we are hastening back to Hygelac.
And here have we been nobly waited on, and well thou hast treated us.
And if I then on earth can gain a whit further greater heart-love
[115]from thee, O Lord of men, than I have gained
already, in doing war-deeds, thereto I’m right ready. And if I
shall hear o’er the sheet of waters that terrors are oppressing
those who sit round thee, as erewhile thine enemies were doing upon
thee, I will bring here a thousand thanes, heroes to help thee. And I
know that Hygelac, the Lord of the Geats, the guardian of my folk,
though young in years, will help me by word and works to bring to thee
honour and bear spear to thine aid, the help of strength, if thou hast
need of men. And if Hrethric42 the Prince’s child should
ever take service in the court of the Geat, he may find there many a
friend. It is better for him who is doughty himself to be seeking far
countries.’
Beowulf spoke, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘Now we, the sea-farers who have come from afar, want to say that we are heading back to Hygelac. Here, we have been treated with great hospitality, and you have been very generous to us. If I can earn a little more loyalty from you, O Lord of men, than I have already gained through my deeds in battle, I am absolutely ready for that. And if I hear over the waters that dangers are troubling those around you, like your enemies once troubled you, I will bring a thousand warriors here to help you. I know that Hygelac, the Lord of the Geats and protector of my people, though he is young, will support me both in words and actions to bring you honor and fight alongside you if you need men. And if Hrethric, the Prince’s child, ever serves in the court of the Geats, he will find many friends there. It’s better for a brave person to seek out distant lands.’
Hrothgar spake and gave him answer: ‘The all-knowing Lord doth send thee words into thy mind. Never heard I a man speak more wisely, so young in years, thou art strong of main and proud of soul, and of words a wise sayer. I reckon that if it cometh to pass that [116]an arrow or fierce battle should take away the children of Hrethel or disease or sword destroy thy sovereign, the protector of the folk, and thou art still living, that the Sea-Geats will not have to choose any better king, if thou wilt hold the kingdom of the kinsmen. Thou hast brought about peace to the folk of the Geats and the Spear-Danes, and a ceasing of the strife and of the enmity which formerly they suffered. And whilst I am ruling the wide kingdom, treasures shall be in common between us. And many a man shall greet another with gifts over the sea.43 And the ring-necked ship shall bear over the ocean both offerings and love-tokens. I know the two peoples to be steadfast towards friend and foe, and blameless in all things in the old wise.’
Hrothgar spoke and responded: 'The all-knowing Lord sends words to your mind. I've never heard a man speak more wisely at such a young age. You are strong and proud, and wise in your words. I believe that if an arrow or fierce battle were to take away Hrethel's children, or if disease or the sword were to destroy your sovereign, the protector of the people, and you are still alive, then the Sea-Geats won't need to choose any better king if you decide to rule the kingdom of your kin. You have brought peace to the people of the Geats and the Spear-Danes, ending the conflicts and animosity they once endured. As long as I am ruling this vast kingdom, we will share treasures. Many will greet one another with gifts across the sea. The ring-necked ship will carry both offerings and tokens of love over the ocean. I know both peoples to be steadfast toward friends and foes, and above reproach in all things according to the old ways.'
Then in that hall the prince of the earls, the son of Healfdene, gave him twelve treasures, and bade him be seeking his own people in safety and with the offerings, and quickly to come back [117]again. Then the King, the Prince of the Danes, he of good lineage, kissed the best of thanes, and embraced his neck. And tears were falling down the face of the old man. And the old and wise man had hope of both things, but most of all of the other that they might see each the other, those thoughtful men in council.
Then in that hall, the prince of the earls, Healfdene's son, gave him twelve treasures and urged him to find his own people safely and with the gifts, and to return quickly. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] Then the King, the Prince of the Danes, a man of good lineage, kissed his best warriors and embraced one of them. Tears streamed down the old man's face. The wise old man had hope for both things, but most of all for the other: that they would see each other again, those thoughtful men in council.
For Beowulf was so dear to him that he could not restrain the whelming in his bosom, but a secret longing fast in the bonds of his soul was burning in his breast against his blood.44 So Beowulf the warrior, proud of his golden gifts, went forth o’er the grassy plain rejoicing in treasure. And the sea-goer was awaiting her lord where she lay at anchor. And as he was going he often thought on the gift of Hrothgar. He was a king, blameless in every way, until old age, that scather of many, bereft him of the joys of strength.
For Beowulf was so dear to him that he couldn’t hold back the overwhelming feelings inside him, but a hidden desire tightly bound in his soul was burning in his heart for his kin. 44 So Beowulf the warrior, proud of his golden gifts, set out across the grassy plain, enjoying his treasure. The ship was waiting for her lord where she lay anchored. And as he walked, he often thought about the gift from Hrothgar. He was a king, without fault in every way, until old age, that thief of many, robbed him of the joys of strength.
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XXVII
So many a
proud young warrior came to the seaside. And they were carrying the
ring-net, the interlaced coats of mail. And the ward of the shore
noticed the going of the earls, as he did their coming.45 Nor with evil intent did he hail the guests from
the edge of the cliff, but rode up to them, and said that welcome and
bright-coated warriors went to the ship to the people of the Geats.
Then on the sand was the spacious craft laden with battle-weeds, the
ringed prow with horses and treasures, and the mast towered high over
Hrothgar’s gifts. And he gave to the captain a sword bound with
gold, so that by the mead-bench he was by that the worthier because of
the treasure and the heirloom. Then he went on board, [119]the
deep water to be troubling, and finally left the land of the Danes. And
by the mast was one of the ocean-garments, a sail fast by a rope. The
sea-wood thundered. Nor did the wind hinder the journey of that ship.
The ocean-goer bounded forth, the foamy-necked one, over the waves, the
bound prow over the ocean streams, till they could see the cliffs of
the Geats’ land, the well-known headlands.
Many proud young warriors came to the seaside, carrying their ring-nets and interlaced coats of mail. The lookout on the shore noticed the earls arriving as well as their departure. He didn't greet them with bad intentions but approached them and announced that welcomed and well-armored warriors were heading to the ship to join the people of the Geats. On the sand was a large ship loaded with battle gear, its ringed prow adorned with horses and treasures, and the mast towering high above Hrothgar’s gifts. He presented the captain with a gold-bound sword, making him more esteemed at the mead-bench because of the treasure and heirloom. Then he boarded the ship, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]setting off into the deep, troubled waters, ultimately leaving the land of the Danes. One of the sails, fastened by a rope, was by the mast. The ship roared through the sea. The wind did not hinder their journey. The ocean-farer surged forward, its foamy neck cutting through the waves, the prow slicing through the ocean streams, until they could see the cliffs of the Geats’ land, the familiar headlands.
Then the keel thronged up the shore, driven by the wind, and stood fast in the sand. And the harbour-master was soon on the seashore, who of yore eagerly had seen from afar the going forth of the dear men. And he made fast the wide-bosomed ship, by the anchor chains, so that the less the force of the waves could tear away that winsome ship. He commanded the treasure of the nobles to be borne up the beach, the fretted armour and the plated gold. And not far thence it was for them to be seeking the giver of treasure, Hygelac, Hrethel’s son, for at home he dwelleth, he and his companions [120]near to the sea-wall. And splendid was that building, and the Prince was a bold King, and the halls were high, and Hygd his wife was very young and wise and mature in her figure, though the daughter of Hæreth had bided in that city but a very few years. But she was not mean nor niggardly of gifts and of treasures to the people of the Geats.
Then the ship nosed up the shore, pushed by the wind, and settled firmly in the sand. The harbor master soon arrived at the beach, who had eagerly watched the dear men set off from afar in the past. He secured the broad-shouldered ship with anchor chains, so that the force of the waves would cause less damage to that lovely vessel. He ordered the nobles' treasure to be carried up the beach, along with the ornate armor and the plated gold. And not far from there, they were looking for the treasure-giver, Hygelac, Hrethel’s son, who lived at home with his companions [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]close to the sea wall. That building was magnificent, and the Prince was a brave King, with lofty halls, and Hygd, his wife, was young, wise, and had a mature presence, even though the daughter of Hæreth had spent only a few years in that city. But she was neither humble nor greedy with gifts and treasures for the people of the Geats.
But Thrytho46 was fierce, for she had committed a terrible crime, that bold Queen of the folk. There was none that durst risk that dire thing of the dear companions, save only her lord, that he should stare on her with his eyes by day; but if he did he might expect that death-bands were destined for himself, for after the hand-grip a weapon was quickly prepared, that the sword that was curiously inlaid should bring to light and make known the death-bale. Nor is it a queenly custom for [121]a woman to perform, though she might be peerless, that she should assail the life of a peace-wearer, of her dear lord, after a pretended insult. At least King Offa, the kinsman of Hemming, checked her in that. But otherwise said the ale-drinkers, namely that she did less of bale to her people and of hostile acts, since the time when she was first given all decked with gold to the young champion,47 to her dear lord, since she sought the Hall of Offa over the fallow flood by the guidance of her father, where on the throne whilst she lived she well did enjoy her fate, that woman famous for good works. And she kept great love for the prince of heroes, and of all mankind he was, as I have learned by asking, the greatest by two seas. For Offa was a spear-keen man in gifts and in warfare, and widely was he honoured. And he ruled his people wisely. And to him and Thrytho Eomær was born to the help of heroes, he the kinsman of Hemming, the nephew of Garmund, was crafty in battle.
But Thrytho46 was fierce because she had committed a terrible crime, that bold Queen of the people. There was no one who dared to risk the dire consequences for their dear companions, except her lord, who could look at her during the day. But if he did, he could expect that death would soon follow, for after their handshake a weapon was quickly drawn, and the intricately designed sword would reveal the grim fate. It's not typical for a woman, even one as exceptional as her, to threaten the life of a peacekeeper, that of her beloved lord, over a feigned insult. At least King Offa, the relative of Hemming, intervened in that matter. However, the drinkers of ale said that she did less harm to her people and committed fewer hostile acts since the time she was first given, all adorned in gold, to the young champion, 47, her beloved lord, as she sought the Hall of Offa across the grassy flood with the guidance of her father, where she enjoyed her fate on the throne, known for her good deeds. She held great love for the prince of heroes, and of all men, he was, as I’ve learned by asking, the greatest by two seas. For Offa was sharp in gifts and in battle, and he was widely honored. He ruled his people wisely. To him and Thrytho, Eomær was born to support heroes; he, a relative of Hemming and nephew of Garmund, was clever in battle.
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XXVIII
Then the
hardy one himself, with his troop set forth to tread the seashore,
going along the sands, the wide sea-beaches. The candle of the world
shone, the sun that was shining from the South. And joyfully they
journeyed, and with courage they marched along, to where they heard by
inquiring, that the good Prince of earls, the banesman of
Ongentheow48 the young war-king, was giving out rings within
the city. And quickly was made known to Hygelac the coming of Beowulf,
that he the Prince of warriors, the comrade in arms, was returning
alive and hale from the battle-play, was coming to the palace. And
straightway [123]was there room made for the foot-guests on the
floor of the hall by command of the King. And he that had escaped
scot-free from the contest sat with the King, kinsman with kinsman, and
the lord with courteous speech saluted the brave man with high-swelling
words. And the daughter of Hæreth49 poured
forth from the mead-cups throughout that great hall, for she loved well
the people, and carried round the drinking-stoups to each of the
warriors. And Hygelac began to question his comrade as curiosity
prompted him as to the journey of the Sea-Geats. ‘How went it
with thee, dear Beowulf, in thy faring, when thou didst bethink thee
suddenly to be seeking a contest o’er the salt waters, in battle
at Hart? And thou didst requite the widely known woe which Hrothgar was
suffering, that famous lord. And I brooded o’er that mind-care
with sorrow-whelmings, for I trusted not in the journey of the dear
man. And for a long time I bade thee not a whit to be greeting the
murderous [124]stranger, but to let the South Danes themselves
wage war against Grendel. And I now give God thanks that I see thee
safe and sound.’
Then the brave one himself, with his group set out to walk along the beach, moving across the sands and the vast sea shores. The sun shone brightly from the South, lighting up the world. They traveled joyfully and marched with confidence to where they learned, through inquiry, that the good Prince of earls, the slayer of Ongentheow, the young war-king, was giving out rings in the city. News quickly reached Hygelac about Beowulf’s arrival, that he, the Prince of warriors, the comrade in arms, was returning alive and well from the battlefield and coming to the palace. Immediately [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] room was made for the guests on the hall floor by the King's order. The one who had emerged unscathed from the battle sat with the King, relatives together, and the lord with kind words greeted the brave man with grand praises. The daughter of Hæreth49 poured mead from the cups throughout the great hall, for she dearly loved the people and served drinks to each of the warriors. Hygelac then began to inquire about his comrade, curiosity prompting him, regarding the journey of the Sea-Geats. ‘How did it go for you, dear Beowulf, on your adventure when you suddenly decided to seek a challenge over the salty waters, in battle at Hart? You dealt with the well-known troubles that Hrothgar, that famous lord, was suffering. I worried deeply about you, troubled by sadness, because I didn't have faith in your journey. For a long time, I advised you not to greet the dangerous [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] stranger and to let the South Danes fight against Grendel themselves. And now I thank God that I see you safe and sound.’
Beowulf answered, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘O Lord Hygelac, it is well known to many a man, our famous meeting, and the battle we fought, Grendel and I, on the wide plain, when he was working great sorrow to the Danes and misery for ever. All that I avenged, so that no kinsman of Grendel anywhere on earth needed to boast of that uproar by twilight, no not he of that kindred who liveth the longest, encircled by the fen. And first, to greet Hrothgar, I went to the Ring-hall. And straightway the famous kinsman of Healfdene, when he knew my intention, gave me a place with his own son; and the troop was all joyful. Nor ever have I seen greater joy amongst any hall-dwellers under the arch of heaven. Sometimes the famous Queen,50 the peace-bringer of the folk, walked over the whole floor and encouraged the young [125]sons. And often she gave to the man a twisted ring ere she went to the high seat. And sometimes for the noble band the daughter of Hrothgar carried the ale-cups to the earls at the end of the high table. And I heard those who sat in that hall calling her Freawaru as she gave the studded treasure to the heroes. And she, young and gold-decked, is betrothed to the glad son of Froda.51 The friend of the Danes and the guardian of the kingdom has brought this to pass, and taken that counsel, so as to set at rest by that betrothal many a slaughter-feud and ancient strife. And often it happens that a little while after the fall of a people, the deadly spear seldom lieth at rest though the bride be doughty. And this may displease the lord of the Heathobards and all of his thanes of the people, when he with his bride walketh over the floor, that his doughty warriors should attend on a noble scion of the Danes, and the heirloom of the ancients should glisten on him, all hard, and the ring-sword, [126]the treasure of the Heathobards, whilst they might be wielding weapons.52
Beowulf replied, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘Oh Lord Hygelac, many people know about our famous meeting and the battle I fought with Grendel on the vast plain, when he was causing great suffering to the Danes and misery forever. I avenged all of that, so no relative of Grendel anywhere on earth could boast about that chaos at twilight, not even the one from that family who lives the longest, surrounded by the marshes. To greet Hrothgar, I first went to the Ring-hall. And right away, the famous kinsman of Healfdene, when he understood my purpose, gave me a spot next to his own son; and everyone in the troop was joyful. I’ve never seen greater happiness among any hall-dwellers under the sky. Sometimes the famous Queen, 50, the peace-bringer of the people, walked around the floor and encouraged the young [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] men. She often gave a twisted ring to the man before heading to the high seat. And sometimes, at the end of the high table, Hrothgar's daughter served the ale-cups to the earls for the noble group. I heard those in the hall calling her Freawaru as she handed the studded treasure to the heroes. And she, young and adorned with gold, is engaged to the joyful son of Froda. 51 The friend of the Danes and the protector of the kingdom made this happen and took this step to settle many blood feuds and ancient conflicts through that betrothal. Often, it happens that shortly after a group's downfall, the deadly spear seldom rests, even if the bride is brave. This might upset the lord of the Heathobards and all his warriors when he walks the hall with his bride, while his valiant warriors attend to a noble descendant of the Danes, and the heirloom from the ancients shines on him, all tough, and the ring-sword, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__], the treasure of the Heathobards, while they might be wielding weapons. 52
XXIX53
Till
the day on which they risked their own and their comrades’ lives
in the battle. Then said an old spear-warrior who remembered all that
had happened, the death of men by spears (his mind was grim), and he
began with sorrowful mind to seek out the thought of the young champion
by broodings of the heart, and to awaken the war-bales, and this is
what he said: “Canst thou recognize, [127]my
friend, the dire sword which thy father carried to the battle, under
the visored helm, on that last journey, when the Danes slew him and had
the battle-field in their power, when Withergyld54 lay dead
after the fall of the heroes? Now here the son of I know not which of
the slayers, all boasting of treasures, goeth into the hall and
boasteth of murder and carrieth the gift which thou shouldst rightly
possess.” Then he exhorteth and bringeth to mind each of the
occasions with sorrowful words, until the time cometh that the thane of
the bride dieth all stained with blood for the deeds of his father by
the piercing of the sword, having forfeited his life. But the other
thence escapeth alive, for he knows the land well. Then the
oath-swearing of earls is broken on both sides when deadly enmities
surge up against Ingeld, and his love for his wife grows cooler after
whelming care. And for this reason I reckon not sincere the
friendliness of the Heathobards towards the Danes or [128]the
troop-peace between them, the plighted troth.
Until the day they risked their lives and the lives of their friends in battle. An old warrior who remembered everything that had happened began to speak with a heavy heart about the men lost to spears, reflecting on the young champion. He tried to stir up the thoughts of battle, saying: “Can you recognize, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]my friend, the deadly sword that your father took into the fight, under his helmet, on that last journey when the Danes killed him and claimed the battlefield, while Withergyld54 lay dead after the heroes fell? Now here comes the son of an unknown killer, all bragging about treasures, entering the hall boasting of murder and carrying the gift that should rightfully belong to you.” Then he recalls each moment with sorrowful words, until the time comes when the thane of the bride dies covered in blood for his father's actions, having lost his life to the sword. But the other escapes alive because he knows the land well. Then the oaths of the earls are broken on both sides as deadly conflicts rise against Ingeld, and his love for his wife cools due to overwhelming worries. For this reason, I do not believe the friendliness of the Heathobards towards the Danes or [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]the promised peace between them is sincere.
‘Now I speak out again about Grendel, for that thou knowest full well, O giver of treasure, how went that hand-to-hand fight of the heroes. When the jewel of heaven glided over the world, then the angry sprite, the terrible and evening-fierce foe, came to visit us where we were dwelling in the hall all safe and sound. There was battle impending to Hondscio, the life-bale to the doomed one. And he first fell, the champion begirt. For Grendel was to the famous thane a banesman by biting, and devoured whole the dear man. Nor would he, the bloody-toothed slayer, mindful of bales, go out empty-handed any sooner again, forth from the gold-hall; but he proved my strength of main, and ready-handed he grasped at me. An ample and wondrous glove hung fast by cunning bands. And it was cunningly fashioned by the craft of devils, and with skins of the dragon. And the fierce doer of deeds was wishful to put me therein, one among many. [129]But he could not do so, for I angrily stood upright. And too long would it be to tell how I requited all evil to that scather of the people, where I, O my liege-lord, honoured thy people by means of good deeds. He escaped on the way, and for a little while he enjoyed life-pleasures. But his right hand showed his tracks in Hart, and he sank to the bottom of the sea, all abject and sad of heart. And the lord of the Danes rewarded me for that battle-rush with many a piece of plated gold, and with ample treasure, when morning came and we had set ourselves down to the feasting. And there was singing and rejoicing. And the wise man of the Danes, who had learned many things, told us of olden days. And the bold in battle sometimes touched the harp-strings, the wood that was full of music, and sometimes he gave forth a song that was true and sad—and sometimes, large-hearted, the King related a wondrous spell well and truly.55 And sometimes [130]the old man encumbered by years, some ancient warrior, lamented his lost youth and strength in battle. His heart was tumultuous when he, of many winters, recalled all the number of them. So we rejoiced the livelong day until another night came down upon men. Then was the mother of Grendel quickly ready for vengeance, and came on a woful journey, for Death had carried off her son, that war-hate of the Geats. And the uncanny wife avenged her child. And Aeschere, that wise and ancient councillor, departed this life. Nor when morning came might the Danish people burn him with brand, that death-weary man, nor lay the beloved man on the funeral pyre. For she bore away the body in her fiendish grip under the mountain-streams. And that was to Hrothgar the bitterest of griefs which for long had befallen the Prince of the people. Then the Prince, sad in mood, by thy life entreated me that I should do a deed, worthy of an earl, midst welter of waters, and risk my life and achieve glory. And he promised me [131]rewards. I then discovered the grim and terrible guardian of the whelming waters, at the sea’s bottom, so widely talked of. There was a hand-to-hand engagement between us for a while, and the sea boiled with gore; I cut off the head of Grendel’s mother in the hall at the bottom of the sea, with powerful sword. And I scarce saved my life in that conflict. But not yet was my doomsday. And afterwards the Prince of earls gave me many gifts, he the son of Healfdene.
‘Now I’m speaking up again about Grendel, because you know very well, O giver of treasure, how that hand-to-hand fight played out for the heroes. When the jewel of heaven glided across the world, the furious creature, the fearsome enemy, came to visit us while we were safely resting in the hall. Battle loomed over Hondscio, who was doomed to lose his life. And he fell first, the brave warrior surrounded in armor. Grendel was a killer to the famous thane, biting and swallowing him whole. The bloody-toothed slayer, thinking of destruction, would not leave the gold-hall empty-handed; he tested my strength, and eagerly lunged at me. A large and extraordinary glove was secured by clever bands. It was skillfully crafted by some dark magic and made with dragon skin. The fierce doer of deeds wanted to trap me in it, one among many. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]But he couldn’t, since I stood my ground fiercely. It would take too long to explain how I repaid all the harm done by that tormentor of the people, where I, O my liege-lord, honored your people with good deeds. He fled and enjoyed a little time indulging in life's pleasures. But his right hand revealed his path in Hart, and he sank to the bottom of the sea, miserable and heartbroken. The lord of the Danes rewarded me for that battle rush with plenty of plated gold and treasure when morning came and we sat down to feast. There was singing and joy. The wise man of the Danes, who had learned much, told us stories of olden times. The brave in battle sometimes picked up the harp, the instrument full of music, and sometimes sang poignant and true songs—and sometimes, large-hearted, the King recounted a wondrous tale well and truly. 55 And sometimes [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]the old man burdened by years, an ancient warrior, mourned his lost youth and battle strength. His heart was troubled as he recalled all those many years. So we celebrated the entire day until another night fell upon us. Then Grendel’s mother was swiftly prepared for revenge and set off on a sorrowful journey, for Death had taken her son, the war-hate of the Geats. The eerie creature avenged her child. Aeschere, that wise and aged counselor, lost his life. When morning came, the Danes couldn’t burn him, that weary man, nor lay the beloved on the funeral pyre. For she took the body with her in her monstrous grip beneath the mountain streams. This was the bitterest sorrow for Hrothgar, which had long befallen the Prince of the people. Then the Prince, filled with sadness, urged me by your life to do a deed worthy of a noble man, amidst the waves, risking my life for glory. He promised me [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]rewards. I then encountered the grim and fearsome guardian of the swirling waters at the bottom of the sea, so widely feared. We engaged in a fierce battle for a time, and the sea churned with blood; I severed the head of Grendel’s mother in the hall at the ocean's depths with a mighty sword. I barely survived that struggle. But my fate was not yet sealed. Afterwards, the Prince of earls bestowed many gifts upon me, he the son of Healfdene.
XXXI
So in
good customs lived the King of the people. Nor had I lost the rewards,
the meed of strength, for the son of Healfdene bestowed upon me
treasures according to my choice, which I will bring to thee, O my
warrior-King, and graciously [132]will I proffer them. Again all
favour depends on thee, for few chief kinsmen have I save thee, O
Hygelac.’ He commanded them to bring in the boar, the head-sign,
the battle-steep helmet, the hoary byrny, the splendid war-sword, and
then he chanted this song: ‘It was Hrothgar, that proud prince,
who bestowed upon me all this battle-gear. And a certain word he
uttered to me, that I should first give thee his kindly
greeting.56 He said that Hrothgar the King of the Danes
possessed it a long while. Nor formerly would he be giving the
breast-weeds to his son the brave Heoroward, though dear he was to him.
Do thou enjoy all well.’
So in good traditions lived the King of the people. And I haven't lost the rewards, the prize of strength, because the son of Healfdene granted me treasures of my choosing, which I will bring to you, O my warrior-King, and graciously [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]will I offer them. Again, all favor depends on you, for I have few noble relatives besides you, O Hygelac.’ He ordered them to bring in the boar, the helmet with its crest, the old mail shirt, the splendid sword, and then he sang this song: ‘It was Hrothgar, that proud prince, who gave me all this battle gear. And he told me that I should first send you his warm greetings.56 He mentioned that Hrothgar, the King of the Danes, had it for a long time. He would not previously give the breastplate to his brave son Heoroward, even though he was dear to him. May you enjoy it all.’
Then I heard that four horses, of reddish yellow hue, followed the armour. And thus he did him honour with horses and gifts. So should a kinsman do. By no means should they weave cunning nets for each other, or with secret craft devise death to a comrade. His nephew was very gracious to Hygelac, the brave in strife, and each was striving [133]to bestow favours on the other. And I heard that he gave to Hygd the neck-ring so curiously and wondrously wrought, which Wealtheow a daughter of royal birth had given him, and three horses also slender and saddle-bright. And her breast was adorned with the ring she had received.
Then I heard that four reddish-yellow horses followed the armor. And he honored him with horses and gifts, just as a relative should. They certainly shouldn’t set clever traps for each other or secretly plot each other’s demise. His nephew was very kind to Hygelac, the brave in battle, and they were both trying to outdo each other with favors. I also heard that he gave Hygd the intricately and beautifully made neck-ring that Wealtheow, a royal daughter, had given him, along with three slim, saddle-ready horses. Her neck was adorned with the ring she had received.
And Beowulf, son of Ecgtheow, so famous in warfare and in good deeds, bore himself boldly and fulfilled his fate, nor did he slay the drunken hearth-comrades. He was not sad-minded, but he, the battle-dear one, by the greatest of craft known to man held fast the lasting and generous gift which God gave him. For long had he been despised, so that the warriors of the Geats looked not upon him as a good man, nor did the lord of troops esteem him as of much worth on the mead-bench. Besides, they thought him slack and by no means a warlike Atheling. Then came a change from all his distresses to this glorious man. Then the Prince of Earls, the battle-brave King, commanded that the heirloom of Hrethel [134]all decked out in gold should be brought in. For of swords there was no more glorious treasure among the Geats. And he laid it on the bosom of Beowulf, and gave him seven thousand men and a building and a throne. And both of them held the land, the earth, the rights in the land as an hereditary possession; but the other who was the better man had more especially a wide kingdom.
And Beowulf, son of Ecgtheow, renowned for his battles and good deeds, carried himself confidently and met his destiny. He didn't kill the drunken warriors at the hearth. He wasn't downcast; instead, the warrior, famed for his courage, skillfully held onto the lasting and generous gift that God had given him. For a long time, he had been looked down upon, so much so that the Geat warriors didn't see him as a good man, nor did their leader value him highly at the mead-hall. They considered him weak and not at all a warrior prince. Then came a shift from all his hardships to this glorious moment. The Prince of Earls, the brave King, ordered that the treasured heirloom of Hrethel [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__], all adorned with gold, should be brought in. Among the Geats, there was no sword more glorious. He laid it on Beowulf's lap and granted him seven thousand men, a building, and a throne. They both held the land, the earth, and the rights as an inherited possession; however, the other, who was the better man, possessed a much larger kingdom.
And in after-days it happened that there were battle-crashings, and Hygelac lay dead,57 and swords under shields became a death-bane to Heardred,58 when the brave battle-wolves, the Swedes, sought him out among the victorious ones and assailed with strife the nephew of Hereric, and it was then that the broad kingdom came into the possession of Beowulf. And he held sway therein fifty winters (and a wise King was he, that old guardian of his country) until on dark nights a dragon [135]began to make raids, he that watched over the hoard in the lofty cavern, the steep rocky cave. And the path thereto lay under the cliffs unknown to men. And what man it was who went therein I know not, but he took from the heathen hoard a hall-bowl decked with treasure. Nor did he give it back again, though he had beguiled the guardian of the hoard when he was sleeping, by the craft of a thief. And Beowulf found out that the dragon was angry.59
And later on, it happened that there were battles, and Hygelac lay dead, 57 and swords under shields became deadly for Heardred, 58 when the fierce warriors, the Swedes, sought him out among the victors and attacked the nephew of Hereric. It was then that the vast kingdom came into Beowulf's possession. He ruled there for fifty years (and he was a wise King, that old protector of his land) until dark nights brought a dragon [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] that began to raid, the one that guarded the treasure in the high cave, the steep rocky den. The path to it lay under cliffs unknown to men. And I don’t know who it was that went there, but he took a bowl from the heathen treasure that was adorned with jewels. He didn’t return it, though he had tricked the treasure guardian while he was asleep, using the cunning of a thief. Beowulf then learned that the dragon was angry. 59
XXXII
And it was by
no means of his own accord or self-will that he sought out the craft of
the hoard of the dragon who inflicted such evil upon himself, but
rather because being compelled by miseries, the [136]slave fled the hateful blows of heroes, he that
was shelterless and the man troubled by guilt penetrated therein. And
soon it came to pass that an awful terror arose upon the
guest.60... And in the earth-house were all kinds of
ancient treasures, such as I know not what man of great thoughts had
hidden there in days of old, the immense heirlooms of some noble race,
costly treasures. And in former times death had taken them all away,
and he alone of the warriors of the people who longest lingered there,
full lonely and sad for loss of friends was he, and he hoped for a
tarrying, that he but for a little while might enjoy the ancient
treasures. And this hill was quite near to the ocean-waves, and to the
sea-nesses, and no one could come near thereto.
He didn't choose to seek out the dragon's treasure on his own; he was driven by his suffering. The [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]slave was fleeing from the destructive blows of heroes, a man without a home and burdened by guilt, and he entered the lair. Soon, a terrible fear settled over the guest.60... Inside the burial mound were all sorts of ancient treasures, treasures whose origins I can't even imagine—vast heirlooms from some noble lineage, valuable riches. In the past, death had claimed them all, and he alone remained among the warriors who lingered there, feeling lonely and grieving for lost friends, hoping to stay there just a little longer to enjoy the ancient treasures. This hill was quite close to the ocean, with no one able to approach it.
And he the guardian of rings carried inside the cave the heavy treasures of plated gold, and uttered some few words: ‘Do thou, O earth, hold fast the treasures of earls which heroes may not hold. What! From thee in days of [137]yore good men obtained it. Deadly warfare and terrible life-bale carried away all the men of my people of those who gave up life. They had seen hall-joy. And they saw the joys of heaven. I have not any one who can carry a sword or polish the gold-plated cup, the dear drinking-flagon. The doughty ones have hastened elsewhere. The hard helmet dight with gold shall be deprived of gold plate. The polishers sleep the sleep of death who should make ready the battle grim, likewise the coat of mail which endured in the battle was shattered over shields by the bite of the iron spears and perishes after the death of the warrior. Nor can the ringed byrny go far and wide on behalf of heroes, after the passing of the war-chief.
And he, the guardian of the rings, carried the heavy treasures of gold inside the cave and spoke a few words: ‘O earth, hold tightly the treasures of the nobles that heroes may not possess. What! From you, in days of [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] long ago, good men obtained it. Deadly warfare and a terrible life took away all the members of my people who gave up their lives. They had known the joy of the hall. And they saw the joys of heaven. I have no one left who can wield a sword or polish the gold-covered cup, the beloved drinking vessel. The brave ones have rushed off elsewhere. The sturdy helmet adorned with gold will be stripped of its gold plating. The polishers who should prepare the grim battle are gone to their eternal rest, just like the coat of mail that endured in battle, which was shattered over shields by the iron spears and perishes after the warrior's death. Nor can the chainmail spread far and wide on behalf of heroes after the passing of the war leader.
‘No joy of harping is there, nor mirth of stringed instruments, nor does the goodly hawk swing through the hall, nor doth the swift horse paw in the courtyard. And death-bale hath sent away many generations of men.’ Thus then, sad at heart he lamented his [138]sorrowful plight, one for many, and unblithely he wept both day and night until the whelming waters of death touched his heart. And the ancient twilight scather found the joyous treasure standing open and unprotected, he it was who flaming seeks the cliff-sides, he, the naked and hateful dragon who flieth by night wrapt about with fire. And the dwellers upon earth greatly fear him. And he should be seeking the hoard upon earth where old in winters he guardeth the heathen gold. Nor aught is he the better thereby.
‘There’s no joy in playing the harp, no laughter from string instruments, no noble hawk soaring through the hall, and the swift horse isn’t pawing in the courtyard. And death has taken away many generations of men.’ Thus, heavy-hearted, he mourned his sorrowful state, one that affects many, and sadly he cried both day and night until the overwhelming waters of death reached his heart. And the ancient bringer of twilight found the joyful treasure sitting open and unguarded; he is the one who fiercely seeks the cliffs, the bare and loathsome dragon who flies by night wrapped in flames. The people on earth greatly fear him. And he should be guarding the hoard on the ground where he has kept the pagan gold for many winters. Yet it does not make him any better for it.
And thus the scather of the people, the mighty monster, had in his power the hall of the hoard three hundred years upon the earth until a man in anger kindled his fury. For he carried off to his liege-lord the plated drinking-flagon and offered his master a treaty of peace. Thus was the hoard discovered, the hoard of rings plundered. And a boon was granted to the miserable man. And the Lord saw for the first time this ancient work of men. Then awoke the dragon, and the strife was [139]renewed. He sniffed at the stone, and the stout-hearted saw the foot-mark of his foe. He had stepped too far forth with cunning craft near the head of the dragon. So may any one who is undoomed easily escape woes and exile who rejoices in the favour of the Wielder of the world. The guardian of the hoard, along the ground, was eagerly seeking, and the man would be finding who had deprived him of his treasure while he was sleeping. Hotly and fiercely he went around all on the outside of the barrow—but no man was there in the waste. Still he gloried in the strife and the battle working. Sometimes he returned to the cavern and sought the treasure vessels. And soon he found that one of the men had searched out the gold, the high heap of treasures. The guardian of the hoard was sorrowfully waiting until evening should come. And very furious was the keeper of that barrow, and the loathsome one would fain be requiting the robbery of that dear drinking-stoup with fire and flame. Then, as the dragon [140]wished, day was departing. Not any longer would he wait within walls, but went forth girt with baleful fire. And terrible was this beginning to the people in that country, and sorrowful would be the ending to their Lord, the giver of treasure.
And so the destroyer of people, the terrifying monster, had the hoard's hall under his control for three hundred years until a man, filled with anger, sparked his wrath. He took the ornate drinking cup to his lord and offered his master a peace treaty. That’s how the hoard was discovered, the hoard of rings was looted. A blessing was given to the wretched man. For the first time, the Lord saw this ancient work of humanity. Then the dragon awakened, and the conflict was renewed. He sniffed at the stone, and the brave man saw the footprint of his enemy. He had come too close with cleverness near the dragon’s head. Anyone who is not doomed can easily escape troubles and exile if they are favored by the Ruler of the world. The guardian of the hoard was eagerly searching along the ground, wanting to find the man who had taken his treasure while he was asleep. He angrily roamed the outside of the barrow, but no one was there in the desolation. Still, he reveled in the struggle and the battle brewing. Sometimes he returned to the cave to look for his treasure vessels. Soon, he discovered that one of the men had found the gold, the massive pile of treasures. The guardian of the hoard was sorrowfully waiting for evening to come. He was very enraged, and the loathsome creature wanted to repay the theft of that precious drinking cup with fire and flames. As the dragon wished, day was fading away. He would no longer wait inside but went out, surrounded by deadly fire. This was a terrible beginning for the people in that land, and it would bring a sad end for their Lord, the giver of treasures.
XXXIII
Then the
Fiend began to belch forth fire, and to burn up the glorious palace.
And the flames thereof were a horror to men. Nor would the loathly
air-flier leave aught living thereabouts. And this warfare of the
dragon was seen far and wide by men, this striving of the foe who
caused dire distress, and how the war-scather hated and harmed the
[141]people of the Geats. And he hurried back to his
hoard and the dark cave-hall of which he was lord, ere it was day-dawn.
He had encircled the dwellers in that land with fire and brand. He
trusted in his cavern, and in battle and his cliff-wall. But his hope
deceived him. Then was the terror made known to Beowulf, quickly and
soothly, namely that his very homestead, that best of houses, that
throne of the Geats, was dissolving in the whelming fire. And full
rueful was it to the good man, and the very greatest of sorrows.
Then the
monster started to spit out fire and burn down the magnificent palace.
The flames were terrifying to everyone. The ugly sky creature wouldn't leave anything alive nearby. People could see this dragon's battle from far away, witnessing the enemy that caused great suffering and how the war bringer attacked and harmed the
[__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]people of the Geats. He rushed back to his treasure and the dark cave that he ruled over before dawn arrived.
He had surrounded the inhabitants of that land with fire and destruction. He relied on his cave, his battle skills, and his rocky fortress. But his hope let him down. The horror was soon revealed to Beowulf in a direct and painful way, that his home, the finest of houses, the throne of the Geats, was consumed by raging flames. It was a deep sorrow for the good man, the most profound sadness he could feel.
And the wise man was thinking that he had bitterly angered the Wielder of all things, the eternal God, in the matter of some ancient customs.61 And within his breast gloomy brooding was welling, as was by no means his wont. The fiery dragon had destroyed by flame the stronghold of the people, both the sea-board and neighbouring land. And therefore the King of the Weder-Geats devised revenge upon him. [142]
And the wise man was worried that he had seriously upset the Creator of everything, the eternal God, over some old traditions.61 And dark thoughts were rising within him, which was unusual for him. The fiery dragon had laid waste to the stronghold of the people, both the coastal area and the nearby land. So, the King of the Weder-Geats planned to take revenge on him. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
Now Beowulf the Prince of earls and protector of warriors commanded them to fashion him a glorious war-shield all made of iron. For he well knew that a wooden shield would be unavailing against flames. For he, the age-long noble Atheling, must await the end of days that were fleeting of this world-life, he and the dragon together, though long he had held sway over the hoard of treasure. And the Prince of rings scorned to employ a troop against the wide-flying monster in the great warfare. Nor did he dread the striving, nor did he think much of this battle with the dragon, of his might and courage, for that formerly in close conflict had he escaped many a time from the crashings of battle since he, the victorious sword-man, cleansed the great hall in Hart, of Hrothgar his kinsman, and had grappled in the contest with the mother of Grendel, of the loathly kin.
Now Beowulf, the prince of warriors and protector of his men, ordered them to create a magnificent war shield completely out of iron. He knew that a wooden shield wouldn't stand up against flames. For he, the noble leader, had to face the end of his days in this world, along with the dragon, even though he had long guarded the treasure hoard. The ring-giver refused to gather a troop to battle the fearsome monster in this epic fight. He didn’t fear the struggle, nor did he think much of this fight with the dragon or its strength and bravery, remembering how he had often survived fierce battles in the past since he, the victorious warrior, had cleared Hrothgar’s great hall of the monstrous Grendel and had fought against Grendel's horrible mother.
Nor was that the least hand-to-hand fight, when Hygelac was slain there in the Frisian land when the King of the Geats, the friendly lord of the folk, the [143]son of Hrethel, died in the battle-rush beaten down by the sword, drunk with blood-drinking. Then fled Beowulf by his very own craft and swam through the seas.62 And he had on his arm alone thirty battle-trappings when he went down to the sea. Nor did the Hetware need to be boasting, of that battle on foot, they who bore their linden shields against him. And few of them ever reached their homes safe from that wolf of the battle.
Nor was that the least intense fight when Hygelac was killed in Frisian territory, when the King of the Geats, the beloved leader of the people, the [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]son of Hrethel, died in the rush of battle, overwhelmed by the sword, soaked in blood. Then Beowulf fled with his own skill and swam across the seas.62 He carried thirty pieces of battle gear on his arm alone when he went into the sea. The Hetware didn’t need to brag about their ground fight, those who held their linden shields against him. And few of them ever made it back home safely from that battle wolf.
But Beowulf, son of Ecgtheow, swam o’er the expanse of waters, miserable and solitary, back to his people, where Hygd proffered him treasures and a kingdom, rings and dominion. She did not think that her son Heardred would know how to hold their native seats against strangers, now that Hygelac was dead. Nor could the wretched people prevail upon the Atheling (Beowulf) in any wise to show himself lord of Heardred or to be choosing the kingship. Nevertheless he gave friendly [144]counsel to the folk with grace and honour until that he (Heardred) was older and held sway over the Weder-Geats.
But Beowulf, son of Ecgtheow, swam across the vast waters, feeling miserable and alone, back to his people, where Hygd offered him treasures and a kingdom, rings and power. She didn’t believe her son Heardred would know how to defend their homeland against outsiders now that Hygelac was dead. The troubled people couldn’t convince the prince (Beowulf) in any way to take over Heardred’s reign or to claim the kingship for himself. Still, he provided friendly [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]advice to the people with grace and honor until he (Heardred) grew older and took control over the Weder-Geats.
Then those exiles the sons of Ohthere sought him over the seas; they had rebelled against the Lord of the Swedes, the best of the sea-kings, that famous chieftain of those who bestowed rings in Sweden. And that was life’s limit to him. For the son of Hygelac, famishing there, was allotted a deadly wound by the swing of a sword. And the son of Ongentheow went away thence to visit his homestead when Heardred lay dead, and left Beowulf to sit on the throne and to rule the Goths. And he was a good King.63
Then those exiles, the sons of Ohthere, sought him across the seas; they had rebelled against the Lord of the Swedes, the greatest of the sea-kings, that famous leader among those who gave out rings in Sweden. And that was the end of his life. For the son of Hygelac, starving there, received a fatal wound from a swinging sword. The son of Ongentheow then left to return home when Heardred lay dead, leaving Beowulf to sit on the throne and rule the Goths. And he was a good King.63
[145]
[__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
XXXIV
He was minded
in after-days to be requiting the fall of the prince. He was a friend
to the wretched Eadgils, and helped Eadgils the son of Ohthere with an
army with warriors and with weapons, over the wide seas. And then he
wrought vengeance with cold and painful journeyings and deprived the
king (Onela) of life.64 Thus the son of Ecgtheow had
escaped all the malice and the hurtful contests and the courageous
encounters, until the day on which he was to wage war with the dragon.
And so it came to pass that the Lord of the Geats went forth with
twelve others and inflamed with fury, to spy out the dragon. For he had
heard tell of the malice and [146]hatred he had shown to men, whence
arose that feud.
He planned later on to avenge the prince's downfall. He was a friend to the unfortunate Eadgils and helped Eadgils, the son of Ohthere, by sending an army of warriors and weapons across the vast seas. Then he took revenge through a harsh and painful journey and ended the life of King Onela. 64 Thus, the son of Ecgtheow had avoided all the malice, harmful conflicts, and brave battles until the day he was set to fight the dragon. Eventually, the Lord of the Geats set out with twelve others, filled with rage, to scout for the dragon. He had heard about the malice and [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]hatred it had shown to mankind, which led to that feud.
And by the hand of the informer,65 famous treasure came into their possession; he was the thirteenth man in the troop who set on foot the beginning of the conflict. And the sorrowful captive must show the way thither. He against his will went to the earth-hall, for he alone knew the barrow under the ground near to the sea-surge, where it was seething, the cavern that was full of ornaments and filagree. And the uncanny guardian thereof, the panting war-wolf, held possession of the treasures, and an ancient was he under the earth. And it was no easy bargain to be gaining for any living man.
And thanks to the informer, 65, they came into possession of a famous treasure; he was the thirteenth member of the group who started the conflict. The sorrowful captive had to show them the way there. Against his will, he went to the earth-hall, because he alone knew the burial mound underground near the crashing waves, where it was stirred up, the cave that was filled with ornaments and intricate designs. And the eerie guardian of that treasure, the fierce war-wolf, guarded the riches, and he was ancient under the earth. It was no easy deal to get for any living man.
So the battle-hardened King sat down on the cliff, and took leave of his hearth-comrades, he the gold-friend of the Geats. And his heart was sad, wavering, and ready for death, and Weird came very near to him who would be greeting the venerable warrior and be seeking his soul-treasure, to divide [147]asunder his life from his body. And not long after that was the soul of the Atheling imprisoned in the flesh. Beowulf spake, the son of Ecgtheow: ‘Many a war-rush I escaped from in my youth, in times of conflict. And well I call it all to mind. I was seven years old when the Lord of Treasures, the friendly lord of the folk, took me away from my father—and King Hrethel had me in thrall, and gave me treasure and feasted me and kept the peace. Nor was I a whit less dear a child to him than any of his own kin, Herebald and Hæthcyn or my own dear Hygelac. And for the eldest was a murder-bed most unhappily made up by the deeds of a kinsman,66 when Hæthcyn his lordly friend brought him low with an arrow from out of his horn-bow, and missing the mark he shot through his brother with a bloody javelin. And that was a fight not to be atoned for by gifts of money; and a crime it was, and wearying to the soul in his breast. Nevertheless the Atheling must [148]unavenged be losing his life. For so is it a sorrowful thing for a venerable man to see his son riding the gallows-tree when he singeth a dirge a sorrowful song, as his son hangeth, a joy to the ravens. And he, very old, may not give him any help. And every morning at the feasting he is reminded of his son’s journey else-whither. And he careth not to await another heir within the cities, when he alone through the fatality of death hath found out the deeds.
So the battle-hardened King sat down on the cliff and said goodbye to his comrades, he the gold-friend of the Geats. His heart was heavy, uncertain, and ready for death, and Fate came very close to him, ready to greet the venerable warrior and seek his soul, to separate [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] his life from his body. Not long after that, the soul of the Prince was trapped in the flesh. Beowulf spoke, the son of Ecgtheow: "I escaped many battles in my youth during conflicts. I remember it all clearly. I was seven years old when the Lord of Treasures, the friendly lord of the people, took me from my father—and King Hrethel kept me close, giving me gifts and feasting me and maintaining peace. I was no less dear to him than any of his own kin, Herebald and Hæthcyn or my beloved Hygelac. And for the eldest, a tragic death was dishonorably caused by the actions of a relative, 66 when Hæthcyn, his noble friend, brought him down with an arrow from his bow, accidentally hitting his brother with a bloody javelin. That was a fight that couldn't be settled with money; it was a crime and weighed heavily on his heart. Yet the Prince must [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] lose his life unavenged. For it is a sorrowful thing for an old man to see his son on the gallows while he sings a mournful song, as his son hangs, a delight to the ravens. And he, very old, cannot help him. Every morning at the feast he is reminded of his son's journey to another place. And he does not wish to wait for another heir in the cities, when he alone, through the inevitability of death, has learned the truth.
‘Heartbroken he looks on the bower of his son, on the wasted wine-hall, become the hiding-place for the winds and bereft of the revels. The riders are sleeping, the heroes in the tomb. Nor is any sound of harping, or games in the courts as erewhile there were.
‘Heartbroken, he gazes at his son’s bower, at the empty wine hall that has turned into a hiding place for the winds, stripped of the celebrations. The riders are asleep, the heroes in their graves. There’s no sound of music or games in the courts like there used to be.
[149]
[__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
XXXV
Then
he goeth to the sleeping-place and chanteth a sorrow-song, the one for
the other. And all too spacious seemed to him the fields and the
dwelling-house. So the Prince of the Geats bore welling heart-sorrow
after Herebald’s death, nor a whit could he requite the feud on
the murderer, nor visit his hate on that warrior with loathly deeds,
though by no means was he dear to him. He then forsook the joys of life
because of that sorrow-wound which befell him, and chose the light of
God, and left to his sons land and towns when he departed this life as
a rich man doth. Then was there strife and struggle between the Swedes
and the Geats, and over the wide seas there was warfare between them, a
hardy battle-striving when Hrethel met with his death. And the
[150]children of Ongentheow were brave and
battle-fierce, and would not keep the peace on the high seas, but round
about Hreosnaborg they often worked terrible and dire distress. And my
kinsmen wrought vengeance for that feud and crime as all men know,
though the other bought his life with a hard bargain. And war was
threatening Hæthcyn the lord of the Geats. Then I heard tell that
on the morrow one brother the other avenged on the slayer with the edge
of the sword, whereas Ongentheow67 seeketh out Eofor. The
war-helmet was shattered, and the Ancient of the Swedes fell prone, all
sword-pale. And well enough the hand kept in mind the feud and withheld
not the deadly blow. And I yielded him back in the warfare the
treasures he gave me with the flashing sword, as was granted to me. And
he gave me land and a dwelling and a pleasant country. And he had no
need to seek among the Gifthas or the Spear-Danes or in Sweden a worse
war-wolf, or to buy one that was worthy. [151]
Then he went to his resting place and sang a sorrowful song, the one for the other. The fields and the house felt too spacious to him. The Prince of the Geats carried a deep heartache after Herebald’s death, and he could not take revenge on the murderer or direct his hatred towards that warrior with terrible acts, even though he was by no means dear to him. He then gave up the joys of life because of that wound of sorrow and chose the path of God, leaving land and towns to his sons when he passed away, like a wealthy man does. Then there was conflict and struggle between the Swedes and the Geats, and fierce battles across the seas when Hrethel died. And the children of Ongentheow were brave and fierce in battle, refusing to keep the peace on the open seas, causing terrible distress around Hreosnaborg. My kinsmen avenged that feud and crime as everyone knows, even though the other paid a heavy price for his life. War was looming over Hæthcyn, the lord of the Geats. Then I heard that the next day one brother avenged the other on the killer with a sword, while Ongentheow sought out Eofor. The war helmet was shattered, and the Elder of the Swedes fell down, pale from the sword’s wounds. And truly the hand remembered the feud and did not hold back the fatal blow. I returned to him in battle the treasures he had given me with the shining sword, as was my right. And he granted me land, a home, and a pleasant country. He had no need to seek among the Gifthas or the Spear-Danes or in Sweden for a worse warrior, nor to buy one deserving of that title. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
‘And I would always be before him in the troop, alone in the front of the battle, and so for ever will I be striving, whilst this sword endureth, that earlier and later has often stood me in good stead, since the days when for doughtiness I was a hand-slayer to Day Raven the champion of the Hugs. Nor was he fated to bring ornaments or breast-trappings to the Frisian King, but he the guardian of the standard, he the Atheling, fell on the battle-field, all too quickly. Nor was the sword-edge his bane, but the battle-grip broke the whelmings of his heart and the bones of his body. Now shall my sword-edge, my hand and hard weapon, be fighting for the hoard.’
‘And I would always be in front of him in the group, alone at the front of the battle, and I will always be striving, as long as this sword lasts, which has served me well both before and now, since the days when I proved my bravery by killing Day Raven, the champion of the Hugs. He wasn’t meant to bring gifts or armor to the Frisian King, but he, the standard-bearer, he, the noble one, fell on the battlefield far too soon. It wasn't the sword that did him in, but the grip of battle shattered the shield of his heart and the bones of his body. Now my sword, my hand, and my strong weapon shall fight for the treasure.’
Beowulf moreover now for the last time spake these boastful words: ‘In many a war I risked my life in the days of my youth, yet still will I seek a feud, I the old guardian of the people will work a glorious deed if the wicked scather cometh out from his earth-palace to seek me.’
Beowulf, now for the last time, spoke these proud words: ‘In many battles, I put my life on the line in my younger days, yet still I will seek revenge. I, the old protector of the people, will carry out a glorious deed if the wicked monster comes out from his underground lair to face me.’
Then he saluted for the last time each of the warriors, the brave wearers [152]of helmets, the dear companions. ‘I would not carry a sword or weapon against the dragon if I knew how else I might maintain my boast against the monster, as I formerly did against Grendel. But in this conflict I expect the hot battle-fire, both breath and poison. Therefore I have both shield and byrny. I will not flee from the warder of the barrow a foot’s-space, but it shall be with me at the wall of the barrow as Weird shall direct, who created all men. I am strong in soul so that I will refrain from boasting against the war-flier. Await ye on the barrow guarded by byrnies, O ye warriors in armour, and see which of us two will better survive his wounds after the battle-rush. This is no journey for you nor fitting for any man save only for me, that he should share a conflict with the monster and do deeds worthy of an earl. I will gain possession of the gold by my courage, or battle and deadly evil shall take away your lord.’
Then he said goodbye for the last time to each of the warriors, the brave wearers [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]of helmets, his dear companions. "I wouldn't take a sword or weapon against the dragon if I knew how else to back up my claims against the monster, like I did against Grendel. But in this fight, I expect the fierce battle-fire, both its breath and poison. That's why I have both shield and armor. I won’t back down from the guardian of the mound, not even a step, but I’ll stand by the wall of the barrow as Fate decides, who created all men. I am strong in spirit, so I won’t boast against the battle-flyer. You warriors in armor, wait on the mound and see which of us two withstands his wounds better after the clash. This isn’t a journey for you, nor is it right for any man except me, to face the monster and do deeds worthy of a lord. I will claim the gold through my courage, or battle and deadly evil will take away your leader."
Then the strong warrior, hard under [153]helm, arose beside his shield and carried his shirt of mail under the rocky cliffs and trusted in the strength of himself alone. Nor was that a coward’s journey. Then Beowulf, possessed of manly virtues, who had escaped in many a conflict and crashing of battle when men encountered on foot, saw standing by the wall of the barrow an arch of rock, and a stream broke out thence from the barrow, and the whelming of that river was hot with battle-fires. Nor could he survive any while near to the hoard unburnt because of the flame of the dragon. Then in a fury the Prince of the Weder-Geats let a torrent of words escape from his breast and the stout-hearted one stormed. And his war-clear voice resounded under the hoar cliffs. And hatred was stirred, for the guardian of the hoard recognized well the voice of Beowulf. And that was no time to be seeking friendship. And the breath of the monster, the hot battle-sweat, came forth from the rock at the first and the earth resounded. The warrior, the Lord [154]of the Geats, raised his shield under the barrow against the terrible sprite. Now the heart of the dragon was stirred up to seek the conflict. The good war-king had formerly drawn his sword, the ancient heirloom, not slow of edge. And each of them who intended evil was a terror the one to the other. And the stern-minded one, he the Prince of friendly rulers, stood by his steep shield, and he and the dragon fell quickly together. Beowulf waited warily all in his war-gear. Then the flaming monster bent as he charged, hastening to his doom. The shield well protected life and body of the famous warrior for a lesser while than he had willed it if he was to be wielding victory in that contest on the first day; but Weird had not so fated it. And the Lord of the Geats uplifted his hand, and struck at the horribly bright one heavy with heirlooms, so that the edge stained with blood gave way on the bone and bit in less strongly than its master had need of when pressed by the business. Then after the battle-swing the guardian [155]of the barrow was rough-minded and cast forth slaughter-fire. Battle-flames flashed far and wide. And the son of the Geats could not boast of victory in the conflict. The sword had failed him, naked in the battle, as was unfitting for so well tempered a steel. And it was not easy for the famous son of Ecgtheow to give up possession of the bottom of the sea, and that he should against his will dwell in some place far otherwhere, as must each man let go these fleeting days sooner or later. And not long after this Beowulf and the monster met together again. The guardian of the hoard took good heart, and smoke was fuming in his breast. And fierce were his sufferings as the flames embraced him, he who before had ruled over the folk. Nor at all in a troop did his hand-comrades stand round him, that warrior of Athelings, showing courage in the battle, but they fled into a wood their lives to be saving. And the mind of one of them was surging with sorrows, for to him whose thoughts are pure, friendship cannot ever change.
Then the strong warrior, solid under [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]his helmet, got up next to his shield and carried his chainmail under the rocky cliffs, relying only on his own strength. That was no coward’s journey. Beowulf, a man of true courage who had survived many fights, saw an arch of rock by the wall of the barrow, and a stream flowed out from there, its waters burning hot with battle. He knew he couldn't stay near the treasure without being burned by the dragon's flames. Furious, the Prince of the Weder-Geats let out a torrent of words from his chest, and the brave warrior stormed forward. His clear battle voice echoed beneath the gray cliffs. Anger was stirred, for the guardian of the hoard recognized Beowulf's voice well. This was no time for friendship. The monster’s breath, hot like battle sweat, emerged from the rock, and the ground shook. The warrior, the Lord of the Geats, raised his shield against the terrifying creature. The dragon's heart was stirred, eager for a fight. The brave king had drawn his sword, the ancient heirloom, sharp and ready. Each of them, harboring ill will, was a terror to the other. The steadfast Prince of noble rulers stood by his sturdy shield, and he and the dragon clashed quickly. Beowulf waited cautiously in his battle gear. Then the flaming monster charged, rushing toward its doom. The shield protected the life and body of the famed warrior, but not for long, as he had hoped for victory in that first encounter; fate had another plan. The Lord of the Geats raised his hand and struck the horrifically bright one, heavily armored, but the blade stained with blood hit bone and sank in less deeply than he needed when the moment came. After the swing of battle, the guardian [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__of the barrow was fierce and unleashed a slaughtering fire. Battle flames flashed everywhere. The son of the Geats couldn’t claim victory in that fight. The sword had failed him, unhelpful in battle, despite being well-crafted steel. It was hard for the famous son of Ecgtheow to accept losing his grip on life, knowing he would have to leave this world behind sooner or later. Not long after that, Beowulf and the monster confronted each other again. The guardian of the hoard gathered his strength, smoke fuming from his chest. His pain was fierce as the flames surrounded him, he who had once ruled over the people. His companions did not rally around him in this battle; instead, they fled into the woods to save their lives. One of them was overwhelmed with sorrow, for to someone with pure thoughts, friendship can never truly change.
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XXXVI
Wiglaf was
he called, he who was the son of Weohstan, the beloved shield-warrior,
the Prince of the Danes and the kinsman of Aelfhere. He saw his lord
suffering burning pain under his visor. Then he called to mind the
favour that he (Beowulf) had bestowed upon him in days of yore, the
costly dwelling of the Waegmundings68 and all the folk-rights
which his father had possessed. Then he could not restrain himself, but
gripped the shield with his hand, the yellow wood, and drew forth the
old sword which was known among men as the heirloom of Eanmund, the son
of Ohthere, and in the striving Weohstan was banesman by the edge of
the sword to that friendless exile and bore away [157]to
his kinsman the brown-hued helmet, the ringed byrny, and the old
giant’s sword that Onela69 had given him, the
war-weeds of his comrade, and the well-wrought armour for fighting. Nor
did he speak of the feud, though he slew his brother’s son. And
he held possession of the treasures many years, both the sword and the
byrny, until such time as his son should hold the earlship as his
father had done. And he gave to the Geats a countless number of each
kind of war-weeds, when he in old age passed away from this life, on
the outward journey. That was the first time for the young champion
that he went into the war-rush with his noble lord. Nor did his mind
melt within him, nor did the heirloom of his kinsman at the war-tide.
And the dragon discovered it when they two came together.
Wiglaf was his name, the son of Weohstan, the beloved shield-warrior, the Prince of the Danes, and a relative of Aelfhere. He saw his lord enduring intense pain under his helmet. Then he remembered the favor Beowulf had shown him long ago, the impressive home of the Waegmundings68 and all the rights his father had held. Unable to hold back, he gripped the shield in his hand, the yellow wood, and pulled out the old sword known among men as the heirloom of Eanmund, the son of Ohthere. In the battle, Weohstan avenged the death of that friendless exile at the edge of the sword and took [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]to his relative the brown helmet, the ringed byrny, and the ancient giant’s sword that Onela69 had given him, along with his comrade's battle gear and well-crafted armor for fighting. He did not mention the feud, even though he killed his brother’s son. He kept the treasures for many years, both the sword and the byrny, until his son would inherit the earlship as his father had. He bestowed upon the Geats countless pieces of battle gear when he passed away in old age, on his final journey. This was the first time for the young champion that he engaged in battle alongside his noble lord. His resolve did not waver, nor did he lose the heirloom of his kin in the heat of war. And the dragon noticed it when they faced each other.
Wiglaf spake many fitting words, and said to his comrades (for his mind was sad within him): ‘I remember the time when we partook of the mead, and promised our liege-lord in the beer-hall, [158]he who gave to us rings, that we would yield to him war-trappings both helmets and a hand-sword, if such need befell him. And he chose us for this warfare, and for this journey, of his own free will, and reminded us of glory; and to me he gave these gifts when he counted us good spear-warriors and brave helmet-bearers, although our lord, this guardian of the people had it in his mind all alone to do this brave work for us, for he most of all men could do glorious things and desperate deeds of war. And now is the day come that our lord hath need of our prowess and of goodly warriors. Let us then go to the help of our battle-lord while it lasts, the grim terror of fire. God knows well of me that I would much rather that the flame should embrace my body together with that of my lord the giver of gold. Nor does it seem to me to be fitting that we should carry shields back to the homestead except we have first laid low the foe and protected the life of the Prince of the Weders.70 [159]And well I know that his old deserts were not that he alone of the youth of the Geats should suffer grief and sink in the fighting. So both sword and helmet, byrny and shield shall be common to both of us together.’
Wiglaf spoke many appropriate words and said to his comrades (for he felt sad inside): ‘I remember the time when we shared mead and promised our lord in the beer hall, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]the one who gave us rings, that we would give him war gear, including helmets and a sword, if he ever needed it. He chose us for this battle and this journey on his own, reminding us of the glory that awaits us. He gave me these gifts when he saw us as skilled warriors and brave fighters, even though our lord, the protector of our people, intended all along to do this brave work for us, since he could achieve glorious feats and daring acts of war better than anyone. And now the day has come when our lord needs our strength and good warriors. Let’s go help our battle leader while we can, facing the terrifying flames. God knows I would much rather have the fire consume my body alongside my lord, the giver of gold. It doesn’t seem right for us to return home with our shields unless we first defeat the enemy and protect the life of the Prince of the Weders.70 [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]And I know well that he shouldn’t be the only one suffering grief and falling in battle. So both the sword and helmet, chainmail and shield will be shared between us.’
Then he waded through the slaughter-reek, and bore the war-helmet to the help of his lord, and uttered a few words: ‘Beloved Beowulf, do thou be doing all things, as thou of yore in the days of thy youth wast saying that thou wouldst not allow thy glory to be dimmed whilst thou wast living. Now shalt thou, the brave in deeds and the resolute noble, save thy life with all thy might. I am come to help thee.’ After these words came the angry dragon, the terrible and hostile sprite yet once again, and decked in his various hues of whelmings of fire, against his enemies, the men that he hated. And the wood of the shield was burnt up with the waves of flame, and his byrny could not help the young spear-warrior; yet did the youth bravely advance under the shield of his kinsman when his own had been [160]destroyed by the flames. Then again the war-king bethought him of glory, and struck a mighty blow with his battle-sword so that it fixed itself in his head, forced in by violence. And Naegling, Beowulf’s sword old and grey, broke in pieces, and failed in the contest. It was not given to him that sharp edges of swords should help him in battle. His hand was too strong, so that it overtaxed every sword, as I have been told, by the force of its swing, whenever he carried into battle a wondrous hand-weapon. And he was nowise the better for a sword. Then for the third time, the scather of the people, the terrible Fire-dragon, was mindful of feuds, and he rushed on the brave man when he saw that he had room, all hot and battle-grim, and surrounded his neck with bitter bones. And he was all be-bloodied over with life-blood, and the sweat welled up in waves.
Then he waded through the smell of slaughter and brought the war helmet to help his lord, saying a few words: ‘Beloved Beowulf, you should do all that you once promised in your youth—that you wouldn’t let your glory fade while you were alive. Now you, brave in action and resolute noble, must save your life with all your strength. I have come to help you.’ Just then, the angry dragon—terrible and hostile—appeared again, adorned in various hues of flames, ready to attack his enemies, the men he hated. The wood of the shield was burned up by waves of fire, and the armor did not protect the young warrior; yet he boldly advanced under his kinsman’s shield when his own was destroyed by flames. Again, the war-king thought of glory and struck a powerful blow with his battle sword, embedding it deep into the dragon's head. Naegling, Beowulf's old and grey sword, shattered into pieces and failed him in the fight. It seemed that sharp swords could not help him in battle. His hand was too strong, overextending every sword, as I have heard, with the force of its swing whenever he took a magnificent weapon into battle. And he wasn’t better off with a sword. Then for the third time, the scourge of the people, the terrible Fire-dragon, remembered his grudges and rushed at the brave man when he saw an opening, hot and fierce, wrapping his neck with sharp bones. He was drenched in blood, and sweat surged in waves.
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XXXVII
Then I heard
tell that the Earl of the King of the People showed in his time of need
unfailing courage in helping him with craft and keenness, as was
fitting for him to do. He paid no heed to the head of the dragon (but
the brave man’s hand was being burnt when he helped his kinsman),
but that warrior in arms struck at the hostile sprite somewhat lower in
his body so that his shining and gold-plated sword sank into his body,
and the fire proceeding therefrom began to abate. Then the good King
Beowulf got possession of his wits again, and drew his bitter and
battle-sharp short sword that he bore on his shield. And the King of
the Geats cut asunder the dragon in the midst of his body. And the
fiend fell prone; [162]courage had driven out his life, and they
two together had killed him, noble comrades in arms. And thus should a
man who is a thane always be helping his lord at his need. And that was
the very last victory achieved by that Prince during his life-work.
Then I heard that the Earl of the King of the People showed remarkable courage in his time of need, providing help with skill and sharpness, as was right for him to do. He ignored the dragon's head (even though he was burning his hand while helping his relative), but the brave warrior struck at the creature somewhat lower down on its body, causing his shining, gold-plated sword to sink into it, and the fire coming from the wound started to lessen. Then the good King Beowulf regained his senses and drew his bitter, battle-ready short sword that he carried on his shield. The King of the Geats sliced the dragon right through the middle of its body. The fiend collapsed; [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]courage had taken its life, and together they had defeated him, noble comrades in arms. Thus, a thane should always assist his lord in times of need. And that was the very last victory achieved by that Prince in his lifetime.
Then the wound which the Earth-dragon had formerly dealt him began to burn and to swell. And he soon discovered that the baleful venom was seething in his breast, the internal poison. Then the young noble looked on the giant’s work as he sat on a seat musing by the cliff wall, how arches of rock, firmly on columns held the eternal earth-house within. Then the most noble thane refreshed his blood-stained and famous Lord, his dear and friendly Prince with water, with his own hands, and loosened the helmet for the battle-sated warrior. And Beowulf spake, over his deathly pitiful wound, for well he knew that he had enjoyed the day’s while of his earthly joy: and the number of his days was all departed and death was coming very near. [163]
Then the wound that the Earth-dragon had given him started to burn and swell. He soon realized that the deadly venom was boiling inside him, the internal poison. The young noble watched the giant’s work as he sat pondering by the cliff wall, how the arches of rock, supported by columns, held the eternal earth-house within. Then the most noble thane refreshed his blood-stained and renowned Lord, his dear and loyal Prince, with water, using his own hands, and removed the helmet for the battle-weary warrior. Beowulf spoke over his painfully grievous wound, for he knew that he had enjoyed the short time of his earthly joy: his days were all numbered, and death was very close. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
‘Now,’ said Beowulf, ‘I would have given battle-weeds to my son if any heir had been given to me of my body. I held sway over these peoples fifty years. And there was no folk-king of those who sat round about who dared to greet me with swords, or oppress with terror. At home have I bided my appointed time, and well I held my own71, nor did I seek out cunning feuds, nor did I swear many unrighteous oaths. And I, sick of my life-wounds, can have joy of all this. For the Wielder of men cannot reproach me with murder of kinsmen when my life shall pass forth from my body. Now do thou, beloved Wiglaf, go quickly and look on the hoard under the hoar stone, now that the dragon lieth prone and asleep sorely wounded and bereft of his treasure. And do thou make good speed that I may look upon the ancient gold treasures and yarely be feasting mine eyes upon the bright and cunning jewels, so that thereby after gazing on that wealth of treasure I may the more easily give up my life and my [164]lordship over the people, whom I have ruled so long.’
“Now,” said Beowulf, “I would have given battle gear to my son if I had any heirs. I ruled over these people for fifty years. And there was no king around here who dared to challenge me with swords or impose fear. At home, I lived my life as I was meant to and held my own without seeking out conflicts or making many false oaths. And I, weary from my life’s wounds, can take pride in all of this. For the Lord of Men cannot accuse me of killing my kin when my life leaves my body. Now you, dear Wiglaf, go quickly and check the treasure beneath the old stone, since the dragon lies defeated and asleep, badly wounded and without its hoard. And make haste so I can gaze upon the ancient gold treasures and eagerly feast my eyes on the bright and crafty jewels, so that after looking at that wealth, I might more easily give up my life and my [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]lordship over the people I have ruled for so long.”
XXXVIII
Then
straightway I heard tell how the son of Weohstan, after these words had
been spoken, obeyed the behest of his lord, who was sick of his wounds,
and carried the ring-net and the coat of mail adorned, under the roof
of the barrow. And as Wiglaf, exulting in victory, came by the seat, he
saw many gems shining and shaped like the sun72 and
gleaming gold all lying on the ground, and wondrous decorations on the
wall, and he saw too the den of the dragon, the ancient twilight-flier,
and flagons standing there and vessels of men of days [165]long
gone by, no longer polished but shorn of adornment. And there also was
many a helmet, ancient and rusty, and many arm-rings cunningly
twisted.
Then right away I heard about how Weohstan's son, after these words were said, followed the orders of his lord, who was suffering from his wounds, and carried the ring-net and the decorated coat of mail under the roof of the barrow. As Wiglaf, filled with victory, walked by the seat, he saw many gems shining and shaped like the sun72 and gleaming gold all spread out on the ground, along with amazing decorations on the wall. He also saw the lair of the dragon, the ancient creature of twilight, and flagons and vessels from men of days [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]long past, no longer polished but stripped of their decoration. There were also many helmets, old and rusty, and many arm-rings skillfully twisted.
The possession of treasure and of gold on the earth may easily make proud all of mankind, let him hide it who will. Likewise he saw the all-gilded banner lying high over the hoard, that greatest of wondrous handiwork and all woven by the skill of human hands. And therefrom went forth a ray of light, so that he could see the floor of the cave, and look carefully at the jewels. And there was no sign of the dragon, for the sword-edge had carried him off.
The possession of treasure and gold on earth can easily make anyone proud, no matter who tries to hide it. He also saw the golden banner high above the hoard, the greatest marvel created entirely by human skill. From it, a ray of light shone, allowing him to see the cave floor and examine the jewels closely. There was no sign of the dragon, as the sword had defeated him.
Then I heard tell how in that barrow one at his own doom73 plundered the hoard, that old work of giants, and bore away on his arms both cups and dishes. And the banner also he took, that brightest of beacons. Beowulf’s sword, with its iron edge, had formerly injured him who had been the protector of these treasures for a long time, and had waged fierce flame-terror, because of the hoard fiercely [166]welling in the midnight hour until he was killed.
Then I heard about how, in that barrow, a man met his own doom73 as he looted the treasure, that ancient work of giants, and carried off both cups and dishes on his arms. He also took the banner, the brightest of beacons. Beowulf’s sword, with its sharp iron edge, had previously injured the one who had long protected these treasures and had unleashed fierce terror of flames, all because of the hoard that had been boiling over in the midnight hour until he was killed. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
The messenger74 was in haste, and eager for the return journey, and laden with jewels, and curiosity tormented him as to whether he would find the bold-minded Prince of the Geats alive on the battle-field, and bereft of strength where before he had left him. Then he with the treasures found the glorious lord, his own dear master, at the last gasp, and all stained with blood. And he began to throw water upon him, until the power of speech brake through his mind, and Beowulf spake, and with sorrow he looked upon the hoard.
The messenger74 was in a hurry, eager to head back, loaded with jewels, and curious about whether he'd find the brave Prince of the Geats alive on the battlefield and weakened from where he last saw him. Finally, he found his glorious lord, his beloved master, on the verge of death and covered in blood. He began to pour water on him until Beowulf could speak again, and with sadness, he looked at the treasure.
‘I would utter words of thanks to the Lord and wondrous King, to the eternal God, for the treasures which now I am looking upon that I have managed to obtain them for my dear people before my death-day. Now that I have in exchange for this hoard of treasure sold my life in my old age, and laid it down, do thou still be helping the people in their need, for I may no longer be lingering [167]here. Do thou bid the famous warriors erect a burial-mound, after the burning of the funeral pyre, at the edge of the sea, which shall tower aloft on Whale’s Ness, as a memorial for my people, and so the sea-farers shall call it the Hill of Beowulf, even those who drive the high ships from afar through the mists of the flood.’
‘I want to thank the Lord and the amazing King, the eternal God, for the treasures I see before me that I've gathered for my beloved people before I die. Now that I've traded my life in my old age for this wealth and have given it up, please continue to assist the people in their time of need, since I won’t be here much longer. Please tell the renowned warriors to build a burial mound, after the funeral pyre is ignited, by the edge of the sea, which will stand tall on Whale’s Ness as a memorial for my people, and so that sailors will call it the Hill of Beowulf, even those who sail the great ships from afar through the mists of the sea.’
Then he the bold Prince doffed from his neck the golden ring. And he gave it to his thane, to the young spear-warrior, the gold-adorned helmet, the ring, and the byrny, and bade him enjoy it well. ‘Thou, O Wiglaf,’ he said, ‘art the last heir of our race, of that of the Waegmundings. Weird has swept away all my kinsmen to their fated doom, all the earls in their strength, and I shall follow after them.’
Then the brave Prince took off the golden ring from his neck. He gave it to his thane, the young spear-warrior, along with the gold-adorned helmet, the ring, and the armor, and told him to take good care of it. "You, Wiglaf," he said, "are the last heir of our lineage, of the Waegmundings. Fate has taken away all my relatives to their destined end, all the earls in their prime, and I will soon join them."
Now that was the very last word of the old warrior’s breast thoughts, ere he chose the funeral pyre the hot wave-whelmings. And his soul went forth from his breast to be seeking the doom of the truth-fast ones.
Now that was the very last thought in the old warrior’s mind before he chose the funeral pyre and the intense waves. And his soul left his chest to seek out the fate of those who held onto the truth.
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XXXIX
Then had it
sorrowfully come to pass for the young warrior that he saw his most
beloved in a miserable plight on the earth at his life’s end.
Likewise the terrible dragon, his slayer, lay there bereft of life and
pressed sore by ruin. And the coiled dragon could no longer wield the
hoard of rings, but the iron edges of the sword, well tempered and
battle-gashed; the hammer’s leavings75, had
carried him off, so that the wide-flier, stilled because of his wounds,
fell to the earth near to the hoard-hall. And no more in playful wise
at the midnight hour, did he drift through the air; this dragon, proud
in his gainings of treasure, showed not his face, but was fallen to the
earth because of the handiwork of the battle-warrior.
It sadly happened that the young warrior saw his dearest one in a terrible state on the ground as his life was ending. The fierce dragon that killed him was also lying there, lifeless and devastated. The coiled dragon could no longer guard the treasure, and the sharp edges of the sword, battle-worn and well-made; the remains of the hammer75, had taken him down, so that the once-mighty flier, silenced by his injuries, crashed to the earth near the treasure hall. No longer did he glide playfully through the air at midnight; this dragon, once proud of his riches, showed no sign of life but had fallen to the ground because of the warrior's effort.
And as I have heard, it would have [169]profited but few of the mighty men, even though they were doughty in deeds of all kinds, though they should rush forth against the flaming breath of the poisonous scather, even to the very disturbing of the Ring-Hall with their hands, if they should have found the guardian thereof awake, and dwelling in the cliff-cave. Then Beowulf’s share of lordly treasure was paid for by his death. And both he and the dragon had come to an end of their fleeting days.
And as I've heard, it would have [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] benefited only a few of the powerful men, even though they were brave in all sorts of deeds. They might charge out against the fiery breath of the venomous creature, even to the point of disturbing the Ring-Hall with their hands, if they found its guardian awake and living in the cliff cave. Then Beowulf's share of noble treasure was paid for with his life. Both he and the dragon finally came to the end of their brief days.
And not long after that, the laggards in battle, those cowardly treaty-breakers, ten of them together, came back from the woodlands, they who erewhile had dreaded the play of javelins when their lord had sore need of their help. But they were filled with shame, and carried their shields, and battle-weeds, to where the old prince was lying. And they looked on Wiglaf; he the foot-warrior sat aweary near to the shoulders of his lord, and sought to rouse him by sprinkling water upon him, but he succeeded not at all. Nor could he, though he wished it ever so much, keep [170]life in the chieftain or avert a whit the will of the Wielder of all things. Every man’s fate was decided by the act of God, as is still the case. Then was a grim answer easily given by the young man to these who erewhile had lost their courage.
And not long after that, the slow ones in battle, those cowardly treaty-breakers, ten of them together, came back from the woods, those who had previously feared the javelin throws when their lord was in desperate need of their help. But they were filled with shame, carrying their shields and battle gear to where the old prince lay. They looked at Wiglaf; he the foot-soldier sat exhausted near his lord’s shoulders, trying to wake him by sprinkling water on him, but he failed completely. Nor could he, no matter how much he wished, keep [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]life in the chieftain or change the will of the Wielder of all things. Every man’s fate was decided by the act of God, just as it still is. Then a grim response came easily from the young man to those who had once lost their courage.
Wiglaf spake, he the son of Weohstan, the sad-hearted. ‘He who will speak truth may say that the lord and master who gave you gifts, and warlike trappings, in which ye are now standing, when he very often gave on the ale-bench to them who sat in the hall, both helmet and byrny, the Prince to his thanes, as he could find any of you most noble far or near, that he wholly wrongly bestowed upon you war-trappings when war befell him. The King of the folk needed not indeed to boast of his army comrades, yet God, the Wielder of Victory, granted to him that alone he avenged himself with the edge of the sword when he had need of strength. And but a little life-protection could I give him in the battle, yet I sought to help him beyond my strength. The [171]dragon was by so much the weaker when I struck with my sword that deadly foe. And less fiercely the fire surged forth from his head. Too few were the defenders thronged around their lord when his fated hour came. And now shall the receiving of treasure, and the gift of swords, and all joy of home and hope cease for ever to men of your kin. And every man of you of the tribe must wander empty of land-rights, since noble men will learn far and wide of your flight and inglorious deed. Death would be better for earls than a life of reproach.’
Wiglaf spoke, he the son of Weohstan, the sorrowful. ‘Anyone who speaks the truth can say that the lord and master who gave you gifts and weapons, with which you now stand, very often shared both helmet and armor with those who sat in the hall, giving these to his thanes as he could find any of you, the most noble from far or near. He wrongly bestowed upon you those war trappings when war came upon him. The King of the people didn’t need to brag about his army comrades, yet God, the Wielder of Victory, granted him that he alone avenged himself with the edge of the sword when he needed strength. I could give him very little protection in battle, yet I tried to help him beyond my own limits. The [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]dragon was much weaker when I struck that deadly enemy with my sword. And the fire surged less fiercely from his head. There were too few defenders gathered around their lord when his fated hour arrived. Now the receiving of treasure, the gifting of swords, and all joy of home and hope will forever cease for men of your kin. Every one of you from the tribe must wander landless, as noble men will hear far and wide of your flight and disgraceful deed. Death would be better for earls than a life of shame.’
XL
Then he bade
them announce that battle-work at the entrenchment up over the
sea-cliff where that troop of earls sat sorrowful in soul through the
morning-long day, holding their shields and in expectation [172]of
the end of the day and the return of the dear man. And he who rode to
and fro o’er the headland was little sparing of fresh tidings,
but said to all who were sitting there, ‘Now is the joy-giver of
the people of the Geats fast on his death-bed, and by the deed of the
dragon he inhabits the place of rest gained by a violent death. And by
his side lieth the enemy of his life, sick of his dagger-wounds. Nor
could he inflict with the sword any wound on that monster. Wiglaf sits
over Beowulf, he the son of Weohstan, the earl over the other one who
is dead, and reverently keeps ward over the loathèd and the
belovèd. But there is an expectation of a time of war to the
people, since to Franks and Frisians the fall of the King has become
widely known. The hard strife was shapen against the Hugs, when Hygelac
came with a fleet into the Frisian lands76 where the
Hetware overcame him in battle, and by their great strength and courage
brought it to pass [173]that the shield-warrior should stoop. He
fell in the troop. Nor did the Prince give jewelled armour to the
doughty ones. The mercy of the Merewing77 was not
always shown to us. Nor do I expect aught of peace or good faith from
the Swedish People. But it was well known that Ongentheow78 bereft Hæthcyn the son of Hrethel79 of life over against Ravenswood, when because of
pride the warlike Swedes first sought out the people of the Geats. Soon
Ongentheow the wise father of Ohthere, the ancient and terrible, gave
him (Hæthcyn) a return blow, destroyed the sea-kings, and rescued
his bride (Queen Elan) he the old man rescued his wife bereft of gold,
the mother of Onela and of Ohthere, and then followed up the deadly foe
until with difficulty they retreated all lord-less to Ravenswood. And
he attacked the remnant80 [174]with a great army,
weary though he was with his wounds. And the live-long night he vowed
woe upon the wretched troop, and said that on the morrow he would by
the edge of the sword slay some and hang them up on the gallows-tree
for a sport of the birds. But help came to the sorrowful in soul at the
dawn of day, when they heard the horn of Hygelac and the blast of his
trumpet when the good man came on the track faring with the doughty
warriors of the people.
Then he told them to announce that fighting was happening at the fortifications up on the sea-cliff where the group of earls sat, feeling sorrowful all day long, holding their shields and waiting [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] for the end of the day and the return of their beloved leader. The one who rode back and forth over the headland didn’t hold back on the news and told everyone there, “Now the joy-bringer of the Geats is close to death, and by the dragon’s actions, he resides in a resting place gained through a violent end. And lying beside him is his enemy, suffering from his dagger wounds. He couldn’t inflict any injury on that monster with his sword. Wiglaf, the son of Weohstan, watches over Beowulf, the one who is dead, and respectfully keeps vigil over both the hated and the beloved. But there’s an expectation of war coming for the people, since the fall of the King has become well-known to the Franks and Frisians. Hard conflict arose against the Hugs when Hygelac came with a fleet to the Frisian lands76 where the Hetware defeated him in battle, and with their great strength and courage, forced [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] the shield-warrior to yield. He fell among the troops. The Prince didn’t give jeweled armor to the brave ones. The mercy of the Merewing77 hasn’t always been shown to us. I don’t expect any peace or good faith from the Swedish people. But it was well known that Ongentheow78 killed Hæthcyn, the son of Hrethel79, at Ravenswood when, out of pride, the warlike Swedes first sought out the Geatish people. Soon Ongentheow, the wise father of Ohthere, the ancient and fearsome, dealt him (Hæthcyn) a counter blow, wiped out the sea-kings, and rescued his bride (Queen Elan), the old man rescued his wife stripped of gold, the mother of Onela and Ohthere, and then pursued the deadly foe until, with great effort, they retreated all lord-less to Ravenswood. He attacked the remnants80 [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] with a large army, tired though he was from his wounds. Throughout the long night, he vowed misery upon the wretched group and said that by the next day, he would slay some with the edge of the sword and hang them on the gallows-tree for the birds to enjoy. But help came to the sorrowful at dawn when they heard Hygelac’s horn and the sound of his trumpet as the good man approached with the brave warriors of the people.
XLI
‘And
the blood-track of both Swedes and Geats, the slaughter-rush of
warriors, was widely seen how the folk stirred up the feud amongst
them. The good man, wise and very sad, went away with his comrades to
seek out a stronghold. Earl [175]Ongentheow turned away to higher
ground, for he the war-crafty one had heard of the prowess of Hygelac
the proud. He had no trust in his power to resist, or that he would be
able to refuse the demands of the seamen, the ocean-farers, or defend
the treasure he had taken, the children and the bride.81 Thence afterwards, being old, he sought refuge
under the earth-wall. Then was chase given to the people of the Swedes
and the banner of Hygelac borne aloft; and they swept o’er the
field of peace when the sons of Hrethel thronged to the entrenchment.
And there too, was Ongentheow, he the grey-haired King of the People
driven to bay at the edge of the sword, and forced to submit to the
sole doom of Eofor. And angrily did Wulf, son of Wanred, smite him with
weapon, so that from that swinging blow blood-sweat gushed forth in
streams under the hair of his head. Yet the old Swede was not terrified
thereby, but quickly gave back a terrible blow by a worse exchange when
the [176]King of the people turned thither. Nor could
Wulf the bold son of Wanred give back a blow to the old churl, for
Ongentheow had formerly cut his helmet in two, so that he, stained with
blood, fell prone perforce to the ground. But not yet was he doomed,
but he raised himself up, though the wound touched him close. And the
hardy thane of Hygelac (Eofor) when his brother lay prostrate, caused
the broad sword, the old giant’s sword, to crash through the wall
of shields upon the gigantic helmet. Then stooped the King, the
shepherd of the people, mortally wounded. And there were many who bound
up his kinsman and quickly upraised him when room had been made so that
they might possess the battle-field, while one warrior was plundering
another. One took the iron shield of Ongentheow, and his hard-hilted
sword, and his helmet, and carried the trappings of the old man to
Hygelac. And he received the treasures, and fairly he promised reward
for the people, and he did as he promised. The lord of the Geats
(Hygelac) [177]son of Hrethel, rewarded with very costly gifts
the battle onset of Eofor and Wulf when he got back to his palace, and
bestowed upon each of them a hundred thousand, of land and locked
rings. Nor could any man in the world reproach him for that reward,
since they had gained glory by fighting; and he gave to Eofor his only
daughter, she who graced his homestead, to wed as a favour. And this is
the feud and the enmity and hostile strife of men, which I expect the
Swedish people will seek to awaken against us when they shall hear we
have lost our Prince, he who in days of yore held treasure and kingdom
against our foes after the fall of heroes, and held in check the fierce
Swede, and did what was good for the people and deeds worthy of an
earl. Now is it best for us to hasten to look upon our King and bring
him who gave to us rings to the funeral pyre. Nor shall a part only of
the treasure be melted with the proud man, but there is a hoard of
wealth, an immense mass of gold, bought at a grim cost, for now at
[178]the very end of his life he bought for us rings.
And the brands shall devour all the treasures and the flames of the
funeral fire, they shall enfold them, nor shall an earl carry away any
treasure as a memorial, nor shall any maid all beauteous wear on her
neck ring adornments, but shall go sad of soul and bereft of gold, and
often not once only tread an alien land now that the battle-wise man
(Beowulf) has laid aside laughter, the games and the joys of song. And
many a morning cold shall the spear in the hand-grip be heaved up on
high, nor shall there be the sound of harping to awaken the warriors,
but the war-raven, eager over the doomed ones, shall say many things to
the eagle how it fared with him in eating the carrion while he, with
the wolf, plundered the slaughtered.’
“And the bloody path of both the Swedes and the Geats, the rush of warriors into battle, was widely seen as the people stirred up conflict among them. The good man, wise and very sorrowful, left with his comrades to find a stronghold. Earl [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]Ongentheow retreated to higher ground, for he, the skilled in battle, had heard about the bravery of Hygelac the proud. He did not trust his ability to withstand, or that he could refuse the demands of the seafarers, nor defend the treasure he had taken, his children, and his bride.81 Later, as he grew old, he sought refuge beneath the earth-wall. Then the Swedes were given chase, and Hygelac's banner was raised high; they swept across the peaceful field as the sons of Hrethel crowded around the fortification. There, too, was Ongentheow, the gray-haired King of the People, cornered at the edge of the sword, forced to submit to the inevitable fate brought by Eofor. Angrily, Wulf, son of Wanred, struck him with a blade, causing blood to pour out in streams under his hair. Yet the old Swede was not frightened, but quickly retaliated with a fierce counterattack when the [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]King of the people turned to him. But Wulf, the brave son of Wanred, could not respond in kind since Ongentheow had previously split his helmet in two, forcing him, bloodied, to fall to the ground. But he was not yet finished; he got back up, even though the wound was severe. And Hygelac's resilient warrior (Eofor), when he saw his brother down, swung the broad sword, the old giant's sword, crashing through the shield wall onto the giant's helmet. Then the King, the protector of the people, was mortally wounded. Many rushed to bind up his kinsman and quickly raised him when there was space to claim the battlefield, while one warrior plundered another. One took Ongentheow's iron shield, his hard-hilted sword, and his helmet, carrying the old man’s spoils to Hygelac. He accepted the treasures, promising rewards for his people, and did as he pledged. The lord of the Geats (Hygelac) [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]son of Hrethel, rewarded Eofor and Wulf with very valuable gifts when he returned to his palace, bestowing upon each of them a hundred thousand in land and secured rings. No one in the world could reproach him for that reward, since they had earned glory through fighting; and he gave Eofor his only daughter, the one who brightened his home, to marry as a favor. This is the feud and hostility and clash of men, which I expect the Swedish people will seek to revive against us when they hear we have lost our Prince, he who once held treasure and land against our enemies after the fall of heroes, kept the fierce Swede at bay, and did good for the people, undertaking deeds worthy of an earl. Now it’s best for us to hurry to see our King and carry him, who gave us rings, to the funeral pyre. Not only a part of the treasure shall be melted down with the proud man, but an immense hoard of wealth, a great amount of gold, bought at a grim cost, for now at [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]the end of his life he secured us rings. The flames shall consume all the treasures, and the fire of the funeral pyre shall engulf them; no earl shall take away any treasure as a keepsake, nor shall any beautiful maiden wear her neck ring adornments, but shall go sorrowful and bereft of gold, often treading an unfamiliar land now that the battle-hardened man (Beowulf) has set aside laughter, games, and joyful songs. And many a chilly morning shall the spear be raised high in the hand, and there shall be no sound of harp to awaken the warriors, but the battle raven, eager over the fallen, will tell the eagle many things about how he feasted on the carrion while, along with the wolf, he plundered the dead.”
Thus then was the brave warrior reciting loathly spells. And he lied not at all in weird or word. Then the troop rose up together, and all unblithely went under Eagles’ Ness, to look on the wonder, and tears were welling. Then [179]they found him on the sand in his last resting-place, and bereft of soul, who had given them rings in days gone by, and then had the last day drawn to its close, for the good man Beowulf, the warrior King, the Lord of the Weder-Goths, had died a wondrous death.
Thus, the brave warrior was reciting dark spells. He lied not at all in his fate or speech. Then the group rose up together and, all somberly, went under Eagles’ Ness to behold the wonder, with tears welling in their eyes. Then [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] they found him on the sand in his final resting place, soul departed, who had once given them rings in days long past. The day had come to a close, for the good man Beowulf, the warrior King, the Lord of the Weder-Goths, had died a remarkable death.
But before this they had seen a more marvellous sight, the dragon on the sea-plain, the loathsome one lying right opposite. And there was the fire-dragon grimly terrible, and scorched with fire. And he was fifty feet in length as he lay there stretched out. He had had joy in the air awhile by night, but afterwards he went down to visit his den. But now he was the prisoner of death, and had enjoyed his last of earth-cares. And by him stood drinking-cups and flagons, and dishes were lying there and a costly sword, all rusty and eaten through as though they had rested a thousand winters in the bosom of the earth. And those heirlooms were fashioned so strongly, the gold of former races of men, and all wound round with spells, so that no man could come near [180]that Ring-hall, unless God only, Himself the true King of victories, gave power to open up the hoard to whom He would (for He is the Protector of men) even to that man as it seemed good to Him.
But before this, they had witnessed an even more amazing sight, the dragon on the seafloor, the terrible one lying right opposite them. There was the fire-dragon, grim and fearsome, scorched with flames. He was fifty feet long as he lay there stretched out. He had soared through the night sky for a while, but then he went down to visit his lair. Now he was the prisoner of death and had experienced his last earthly worries. Next to him were drinking cups and flagons, and dishes scattered around, along with a valuable sword, all rusty and corroded as if they had been buried for a thousand winters. These heirlooms were crafted so robustly, the gold of ancient peoples, all entwined with enchantments, that no man could approach that Ring-hall, unless God Himself, the true King of victories, granted the power to open the hoard to whomever He chose (for He is the Protector of men), even to that man whom He deemed worthy.
XLII
Then was it
quite clear to them that the affair had not prospered with the monster,
who had hidden ornaments within the cave under the cliff. The guardian
thereof had slain some few in former days. Then had the feud been
wrathfully avenged. And it is a mystery anywhere when a valiant earl
reaches the end of his destiny, when a man may no longer with his
kinsman dwell in the mead-hall. And thus was it [181]with
Beowulf when he sought out the guardian of the cavern and his cunning
crafts. And he himself knew not how his departure from this world would
come about. And thus famous chieftains uttered deep curses until the
day of doom, because they had allowed it to come to pass that the
monster should be guilty of such crimes, and, accursed and fast with
hell-bands, as he was, and tormented with plagues that he should
plunder the plain. He (Beowulf) was not greedy of gold, and had more
readily in former days seen the favour of God.
It was clear to them that things hadn't gone well with the monster, who had hidden treasures in the cave beneath the cliff. The guardian had killed a few in the past, leading to a fierce revenge. It's always a mystery when a brave noble meets his fate, especially when a man can no longer share the mead-hall with his kin. And so it was [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] for Beowulf when he sought out the guardian of the cave and his clever traps. He didn't even know how his life would end. Famous leaders cursed deeply until the day of reckoning because they let the monster commit such crimes, even though he was cursed and held by hellish bonds, suffering from plagues as he raided the land. Beowulf wasn't greedy for gold; he had more often looked for God's favor in the past.
Wiglaf spake, the son of Weohstan: ‘Often shall many an earl of his own only will suffer misery, as is our fate. Nor could we teach the dear lord and shepherd of the kingdom any wisdom so that he would fail to be meeting the keeper of the gold treasures (the dragon) or to let him stay where he had been long time dwelling in his cavern until the world’s end. But he held to his high destiny. Now the hoard is seen by us, grimly got hold of, and at too great a cost was it yielded to the King [182]of the people whom he enticed to that conflict. I was within the cavern, and looked upon all the hoard, the decoration of the palace, when by no means pleasantly, room was made for me, and a faring was granted to me in under the sea-cliff. And in much haste I took a very great burden of hoard-treasures in my hand, and bore it forth hither to my King. He was still alive, wise and witting well. And he the ancient uttered many words in sadness, and bade me greet you, and commanded that ye should build after death of your friend a high grave-mound in the place of the funeral pyre, a great and famous monument, for he himself was the most worshipful of men throughout the earth, while he was enjoying the wealth of his city. Let us now go and see and seek yet once again the heap of treasures, the wonder under the cliff. I will direct you, so that ye may look at close quarters upon the rings and the wealth of gold. Let the bier be quickly made ready when we come forth again, and then let us carry [183]the dear man our lord when he shall enjoy the protection of the Ruler of all things.’
Wiglaf spoke, the son of Weohstan: ‘Many a lord will often suffer distress out of his own choices, just like we are now. We couldn't teach our beloved king and protector of the realm any wisdom that would prevent him from facing the guardian of the treasure (the dragon) or letting it stay hidden in its cave until the end of days. But he remained true to his noble fate. Now we see the hoard, grimly acquired, and it came at too high a price, given to the King of the people who led them into this battle. I was inside the cave and saw all the treasure, the adornments of the palace, and they made room for me, granting me passage beneath the sea cliff. In great haste, I took a huge load of treasures in my hands and brought it back here to my King. He was still alive, wise, and fully aware. The old man expressed many sorrowful thoughts, sent his greetings to you, and ordered that after the death of your friend, you should build a high grave mound where his funeral pyre was, a great and renowned monument, for he was the most honored of men on the earth while he enjoyed the wealth of his city. Now let us go and once more seek out the heap of treasures, the marvel beneath the cliff. I will lead you so you can see up close the rings and the gold. Let the bier be ready quickly when we return, and then we shall carry our dear lord when he is finally at peace in the care of the Ruler of all.’
Then the son of Weohstan, the battle-dear warrior, ordered that commandment should be given to many a hero and householder that they should bring the wood for the funeral pyre from far, they the folk-leaders, to where the good man lay dead.
Then Weohstan's son, the brave warrior, commanded that many heroes and landowners should gather wood for the funeral pyre from far and wide, to where the noble man lay dead.
‘Now the war-flame shall wax and the fire shall eat up the strong chief among warriors, him who often endured the iron shower, when the storm of arrows, strongly impelled, shot over the shield-wall, and the shaft did good service, and all eager with its feather, fear followed and aided the barb.’ Then the proud son of Weohstan summoned from the troop the thanes of the King, seven of them together, and the very best of them, and he the eighth went under the hostile roof. And one of the warriors carried in his hand a torch which went on in front.
‘Now the flames of war will grow, and the fire will consume the strong chief among warriors, the one who often faced the rain of arrows when the storm of projectiles fiercely flew over the shield-wall, and the arrow served its purpose well, while all eager with its feathers, fear followed and supported the blade.’ Then the proud son of Weohstan called forth seven of the King’s thanes from the troop, the very best among them, while he himself was the eighth who went under the hostile roof. One of the warriors carried a torch that lit the way in front.
And no wise was it allotted who should plunder that hoard, since they saw [184]some part unguarded remaining in the Hall, and lying there fleeting.
And it wasn't decided who would take that treasure, since they noticed [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]some of it was left unguarded in the Hall, just lying there.
And little did any man mourn when full heartily they carried forth the costly treasures. Then they shoved the dragon the worm over the cliff-wall, and let the wave take him and the flood embrace that guardian of the treasures. Then the twisted golden ornaments were loaded on a wagon, an immense number of them. And the noble Atheling, the hoar battle-warrior, was carried to Whales’ Ness.
And hardly anyone mourned when they eagerly took away the valuable treasures. Then they pushed the dragon over the cliff, letting the waves take him and the flood welcome that guardian of the treasures. Then they loaded a huge amount of twisted golden ornaments onto a wagon. The noble prince, the grey-haired battle-warrior, was taken to Whales’ Ness.
XLIII
Then the
People of the Geats got ready the mighty funeral pyre, and hung it
round with helmets and battle-shields, and bright byrnies as he had
asked. And in the midst they lay the famous Prince, and they lamented
the Hero, [185]their dear lord. Then the warriors began to stir
up the greatest of bale-fires on the cliff-side. And the reek of the
wood-smoke went up swart, over the flame, which was resounding, and its
roar mingled with weeping (and the tumult of winds was still), until it
had broken the body, all hot into the heart. And unhappy in their
thinkings, and with minds full of care, they proclaim the death of
their lord, likewise a sorrowful song the Bride....82
Then the
People of the Geats prepared a grand funeral pyre, decorating it with helmets, battle shields, and shining chainmail as he had requested. In the center, they laid the renowned Prince, mourning the Hero, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]their beloved lord. The warriors then started to build the largest bonfire on the cliffside. The thick smoke billowed up over the flames, which roared loudly, blending with their cries (and the winds were calm), until it consumed the body, searing hot to the core. Lost in their thoughts and burdened with sorrow, they mourned the death of their lord, and the Bride sang a sorrowful song....82
And heaven swallowed up the smoke. Then on the cliff-slopes the people of the Geats erected a mound, very high and very broad, that it might be beholden from afar by the wave-farers; and they set up the beacon of the mighty in battle in ten days. And the leavings of the funeral fire they surrounded with a wall, so that very proud men might find it to be most worthy of reverence. [186]
And heaven swallowed up the smoke. Then, on the cliffs, the Geats built a huge mound that could be seen from far away by those at sea. They constructed the battle beacon over ten days. They enclosed the ashes from the funeral fire with a wall so that proud warriors would see it as something deserving of great respect. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
And they did on the barrow rings and necklaces, and all such adornments as formerly warlike men had taken of the hoard. And they allowed the earth to hold the treasure of earls, the gold on the ground, where it still is to be found as useless to men as it always was.83 Then the battle-dear men rode round about the mound, the children of the Athelings, twelve of them there were in all, and would be uttering their sorrows and lamenting their King, and reciting a dirge, and speaking of their champion. And they talked of his earlship and of his brave works, and deemed them doughty, as is fitting that a man should praise his lord in words and cherish him in his heart when he shall have gone forth from the fleeting body. So the People of the Geats lamented over the fall of their lord, his hearth-companions, and said that he was a world-king, and the mildest, the gentlest of men, and most tender to his people, and most eager for their praise.
And they put on the rings and necklaces, along with all the other decorations that once fierce men had taken from the treasure. They let the earth keep the riches of the earls, the gold on the ground, where it can still be found, as useless to people as it always was.83 Then the battle-hardy men rode around the mound, the children of the Athelings, twelve of them in total, expressing their grief and mourning their King, reciting a dirge and talking about their champion. They spoke of his noble rank and his brave deeds, praising them as is fitting for a man to honor his lord in words and hold him dear in his heart when he has departed from his fleeting body. So the People of the Geats mourned the loss of their lord, his loyal companions, saying he was a king among men, the mildest, the gentlest, the most caring towards his people, and the most eager for their praise.
[187]
[__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
3 See Appendix V., and chapters XXVIII, and XXIX. ↑
3 Check it out __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__., and chapters __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__, and __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_3__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_4__
6 Geats. The tribe to which Beowulf belonged. They inhabited southern Sweden between the Danes on the south and the Swedes on the north. See Appendix XI. ↑
6 Geats. The tribe that Beowulf was part of. They lived in southern Sweden, located between the Danes to the south and the Swedes to the north. See Appendix XI. ↑
17 Thus we see how sagas or legends came to be woven together into a song. See Appendix X. ↑
17 So, we can see how stories or legends were combined into a song. Check out Appendix X. ↑
21 See Appendix VI. ↑
21 Check out __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__
27 See Appendix III. ↑
27 Check out __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__
28 See Appendix IV. ↑
28 Check out __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__
41 ‘Honorable’ is Wyatt’s translation. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__
46 Thrytho is referred to as a foil to Hygd. Thrytho was as bad a woman as Hygd was good. She was a woman of a wild and passionate disposition. She became the Queen of King Offa, and it seems to have been a case of the ‘taming of the shrew.’ Offa appears to have been her second husband. See below. ↑
48 i.e. Hygelac; see Appendices VII. and IX. ↑
48 i.e. Hygelac; see __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__ and __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_3__
52 Another episode, viz. that of Freawaru and Ingeld. Note also the artificial break of the narrative into chapters. See Appendix V.
52 Another episode, specifically that of Freawaru and Ingeld. Also, take note of the intentional break in the narrative into chapters. See Appendix V.
Hrothgar’s hopes by the marriage of his daughter Freawaru to Ingeld of the Heathobards was doomed to disappointment, cp. ‘Widsith,’ 45–9. ↑
Hrothgar’s hopes for the marriage of his daughter Freawaru to Ingeld of the Heathobards were bound to end in disappointment, cp. ‘Widsith,’ 45–9. ↑
54 Withergyld—name of a Heathobard warrior. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__
57 Hygelac was killed in his historical invasion of the Netherlands, which is five times referred to in the poem. See Appendix VII. ↑
57 Hygelac was killed during his historical invasion of the Netherlands, which is mentioned five times in the poem. See Appendix VII. ↑
58 See Appendix IX. ↑
58 Check out __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__
59 The MS. here is very imperfect. I have used the emended text of Bugge, which makes good sense. See Appendix XII. ↑
59 The manuscript here is quite flawed. I’ve utilized Bugge's revised text, which is clear and logical. See Appendix XII. ↑
62 Beowulf saved his life by swimming across the sea, in Hygelac’s famous raid. See Appendix VII. ↑
62 Beowulf saved his life by swimming across the sea during Hygelac’s famous raid. See Appendix VII. ↑
63 See Appendix IX. ↑
63 View __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__
64 See Appendix IX. ↑
64 View __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__
66 See Appendix VIII. ↑
66 View __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__
67 See Appendices VII. and IX. ↑
67 Check out __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. and __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_3__
69 See Appendix IX. ↑
69 View __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__
76 Yet another reference to Hygelac’s famous raid. See Appendix VII. ↑
76 Yet another mention of Hygelac’s legendary raid. Check out Appendix VII. ↑
78 See Appendix IX. ↑
78 View __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__
81 See Appendix IX. ↑
81 View __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__. __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__
83 Probably the treasures that remained in the cavern. See previous chapter. ↑
83 Most likely the treasures that were left in the cave. Check out previous chapter. ↑
APPENDICES
I
GENERAL NOTE ON THE POEM
This is the
greatest poem that has come down to us from our Teutonic ancestors. Our
only knowledge of it is through the unique MS. in the British
Museum.
This is the greatest poem we have from our Teutonic ancestors. We only know it through the unique manuscript in the British Museum.
It has already been translated at least eight times as follows:
It has already been translated at least eight times as follows:
1. Kemble, 1837.
Kemble, 1837.
2. Thorpe and Arnold (with the O.E. Poem accompanying it).
2. Thorpe and Arnold (with the Old English poem that goes with it).
3. Lumsden, 1881 (in ballad form).
3. Lumsden, 1881 (in ballad form).
4. Garnett, 1883.
4. Garnett, 1883.
5. Earle, 1892.
Earle, 1892.
6. William Morris and A. J. Wyatt, 1895. This is in poetic form, but abounds in archaisms and difficult inversions, and is sometimes not easy to read or indeed to understand. [188]
6. William Morris and A. J. Wyatt, 1895. This is written in a poetic style, but it’s filled with outdated language and complex sentence structures, making it sometimes hard to read or even understand. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
7. Wentworth Huyshe, 1907.
Wentworth Huyshe, 1907.
8. A translation in 1912. Author unknown.
8. A translation from 1912. Author unknown.
Many of the persons and events of Beowulf are also known to us through various Scandinavian and French works as follows:
Many of the people and events in Beowulf are also known to us through various Scandinavian and French works, as follows:
SCANDINAVIAN RECORDS.
1. Saxo’s Danish History.
Saxo’s Danish History.
2. Hrólf’s Saga Kraka.
Hrólf's Saga Kraka.
3. Ynglinga Saga (and Ynglinga tál).
3. Ynglinga Saga (and Ynglinga tál).
4. Skiöldunga Saga.
4. Skiöldunga Saga.
As instances of identical persons and events:
As examples of the same people and events:
1. Skiöldr, ancestor of Skiöldungar, corresponds to Scyld the ancestor of Scyldungas.
1. Skiöldr, the ancestor of the Skiöldungar, is the same as Scyld, the ancestor of the Scyldungas.
2. The Danish King Halfdan corresponds to Healfdene.
2. The Danish King Halfdan is the same as Healfdene.
3. His sons Hroarr and Helgi correspond to Hrothgar and Halga.
3. His sons Hroarr and Helgi are equivalent to Hrothgar and Halga.
4. Hrölf Kraki corresponds to Hrothwulf, nephew of Hrothgar.
4. Hrölf Kraki is the same as Hrothwulf, the nephew of Hrothgar.
5. Frothi corresponds to Froda, and his son Ingialdi to Ingeld.
5. Frothi corresponds to Froda, and his son Ingialdi to Ingeld.
6. Otarr corresponds to Ohthere, and his son Athils to Eadgils.
6. Otarr corresponds to Ohthere, and his son Athils corresponds to Eadgils.
With the exception of the Ynglinga tál all these records are quite late, hence they do not afford any evidence for the dates of events mentioned in Beowulf.
With the exception of the Ynglinga tál, all these records are quite late, so they do not provide any evidence for the dates of events mentioned in Beowulf.
Further Scandinavian correspondences are [189]seen in Böthvarr Biarki, the chief of Hrölf Kraki’s knights. He is supposed to correspond to Beowulf. He came to Leire, the Danish royal residence, and killed a demon in animal form. Saxo says it was a bear. This demon attacked the King’s yard at Yule-tide, but Biarki and Beowulf differ as to their future, for Biarki stayed with Hrölf Kraki to the end and died with him.
Further Scandinavian connections are [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]seen in Böthvarr Biarki, the leader of Hrölf Kraki’s knights. He is thought to be similar to Beowulf. He arrived at Leire, the Danish royal residence, and killed a demon in animal form. Saxo claims it was a bear. This demon attacked the King’s yard during the Yule season, but Biarki and Beowulf differ in their destinies, as Biarki remained with Hrölf Kraki until the end and died alongside him.
In the Grettis Saga the hero kills two demons, male and female. It is true that the scene is laid in Iceland, but minor details of scenery, the character of the demons, and other similarities make it impossible to believe the two stories to be different in origin. They both sprang out of a folk-tale associated after ten centuries with Grettis, and in England and Denmark with an historical prince of the Geats.
In the Grettis Saga, the hero kills two demons, one male and one female. While the setting is in Iceland, the similarities in the landscapes, the nature of the demons, and other details suggest that these two stories cannot be considered different in origin. They both emerged from a folk tale that has been linked to Grettis for over a thousand years, and in England and Denmark, it’s connected to a historical prince of the Geats.
FRENCH RECORDS
1. Historia Francorum and Gesta Regum Francorum (discovered by Outzen and Leo).
1. Historia Francorum and Gesta Regum Francorum (found by Outzen and Leo).
In A.D. 520 a raid was made on the territory of the Chatuarii. Their king Theodberht, son of Theodric I, defeated Chocilaicus, who was killed. This Chocilaicus is identified with the Hygelac of our poem, and the raid with Hygelac’s raid on the Hetware (= Chatuarii), [190]the Franks, and the Frisians. This helps us to estimate the date for Beowulf as having been born somewhere about the end of the fifth century.
In CE 520, there was a raid on the land of the Chatuarii. Their king, Theodberht, the son of Theodric I, defeated Chocilaicus, who was killed in the battle. This Chocilaicus is thought to be the same as Hygelac from our poem, and the raid corresponds to Hygelac’s raid on the Hetware (= Chatuarii), [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] the Franks, and the Frisians. This allows us to estimate that Beowulf was likely written around the end of the fifth century.
2. Historia Francorum, by Gregory of Tours. The author speaks of the raider as the King of the Danes.
2. Historia Francorum, by Gregory of Tours. The author describes the raider as the King of the Danes.
3. Liber Monstrorum. In this work the raider is Rex Getarum, King of the Geats, who may correspond with the Geats of our poem. The Geats were the people of Gautland in Southern Sweden. See Appendix XI.
3. Liber Monstrorum. In this work, the raider is Rex Getarum, the King of the Geats, who may correspond with the Geats in our poem. The Geats were the people from Gautland in Southern Sweden. See Appendix XI.
ORIGIN OF THE ANGLO-SAXON POEM
It was probably written in Northumbrian or Midland, but was preserved in a West Saxon translation.
It was likely written in Northumbrian or Midland, but it was kept in a West Saxon translation.
There would seem to be some justifiable doubt as to the unity of the poem. Though on the whole pagan and primitive in tone, it has a considerable admixture of Christian elements, e.g. on pp. 29 and 30 and pp. 109–112, though the latter passage may be a late interpolation. Generally speaking, the poetry and sentiments are Christian in tone, but the customs are pagan. The author of the article in The Cambridge History of English [191]Literature, vol. i., to whom I owe much, says: ‘I cannot believe that any Christian poet could have composed the account of Beowulf’s funeral.’ One passage is very reminiscent of Eph. vi. 16, viz. Chapter XXV. p. 111; whilst page 25 (lower half) may be compared with Cædmon’s Hymn. There are also references to Cain and Abel and to the Deluge. Of Chapters I.–XXXI. the percentage of Christian elements is four, whilst of the remaining Chapters (XXXII. ad fin.) the percentage is ten, due chiefly to four long passages. Note especially that the words in Chapter II., ‘And sometimes they went vowing at their heathen shrines and offered sacrifices,’ et seq., are quite inconsistent with the Christian sentiment attributed to Hrothgar later in the poem. ‘It is generally thought,’ says the writer in The Cambridge History of English Literature, ‘that several originally separate lays have been combined into one poem, and, while there is no proof of this, it is quite possible and not unlikely.’
There seems to be some understandable doubt about the unity of the poem. While it mainly has a pagan and primitive feel, it also includes a significant amount of Christian elements, such as on pp. 29 and 30 and pp. 109–112, though the latter section might be a later addition. Overall, the poetry and feelings expressed are Christian in nature, but the customs reflect pagan traditions. The author of the article in The Cambridge History of English [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]Literature, vol. i., to whom I owe a lot, states: ‘I can’t believe that any Christian poet would have written the account of Beowulf’s funeral.’ One section closely resembles Eph. vi. 16, specifically Chapter XXV. p. 111; while the lower half of page 25 can be compared to Cædmon’s Hymn. There are also mentions of Cain and Abel and the Flood. Of Chapters I.–XXXI., the percentage of Christian elements is four, while in the remaining Chapters (XXXII. ad fin.) it’s ten, mainly because of four long sections. Pay special attention to the words in Chapter II., ‘And sometimes they went vowing at their heathen shrines and offered sacrifices,’ etc., which are completely inconsistent with the Christian attitude attributed to Hrothgar later in the poem. ‘It is generally believed,’ says the writer in The Cambridge History of English Literature, ‘that several originally separate lays have been brought together into one poem, and while there’s no proof of this, it’s quite possible and not unlikely.’
There are in the poem four distinct lays:
There are four distinct songs in the poem:
1. Beowulf’s Fight with Grendel.
Beowulf vs. Grendel.
2. Beowulf’s Fight with Grendel’s mother.
2. Beowulf’s Fight with Grendel’s Mother.
3. Beowulf’s Return to the land of the Geats.
3. Beowulf’s Return to the Land of the Geats.
4. Beowulf’s Fight with the Dragon.
4. Beowulf's Battle with the Dragon.
Competent critics say that probably 1 and 2 [192]ought to be taken together, while Beowulf’s reception by Hygelac (see 3 above) is probably a separate lay. Some scholars have gone much further in the work of disintegration, even attributing one half of the poem to interpolators, whilst others suggest two parallel versions. Summing up, the writer in The Cambridge History of English Literature says: ‘I am disposed to think that a large portion of the poem existed in epic form before the change of faith, and that the appearance of Christian elements in the poem is due to revision. The Christianity of Beowulf is of a singularly indefinite and individual type, which contrasts somewhat strongly with what is found in later Old English poetry. This revision must have been made at a very early date.’
Competent critics argue that probably 1 and 2 [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] should be considered together, while Beowulf’s encounter with Hygelac (see 3 above) is likely a separate section. Some scholars have gone much further in breaking it down, even claiming that one half of the poem was added by others, while others propose there are two parallel versions. In summary, the writer in The Cambridge History of English Literature states: ‘I believe that a large part of the poem existed in epic form before the shift in faith, and that the presence of Christian elements in the poem is due to later revisions. The Christianity in Beowulf is notably vague and personal, which contrasts quite sharply with what is found in later Old English poetry. This revision must have occurred at a very early date.’
The poem was built up between A.D. 512, the date of the famous raid of Hygelac (Chocilaicus) against the Hetware (Chatuarii), and 752, when the French Merovingian dynasty fell; for, says Arnold, ‘The poem contains not a word which by any human ingenuity could be tortured into a reference to any event subsequent to the fall of the Merovingians’ (A.D. 752). [193]
The poem was created between C.E. 512, the year of the well-known raid by Hygelac (Chocilaicus) against the Hetware (Chatuarii), and 752, when the French Merovingian dynasty ended; because, as Arnold states, ‘The poem doesn’t mention anything that could possibly be interpreted as referring to any event after the fall of the Merovingians’ (A.D. 752). [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
II
THE PRELUDE
The Prelude would seem to be an attempt to link up the hero of the poem with the mythological progenitors of the Teutonic nations. Thomas Arnold says: ‘That Sceaf, Scyld, and Beaw were among the legendary ancestors of the West Saxon line of kings no one disputes. But this does not mean much, for the poem itself shows that the same three were also among the legendary ancestors of the Danish kings.’ Ethelward, who wrote early in the tenth century, gives the ancestry of Ethelwulf, the father of Alfred. Ethelward says: ‘The seventeenth ancestor from Cerdic was Beo, the eighteenth Scyld, the nineteenth Scef.’ Ethelward also says: ‘Scef himself, with one light vessel, arrived in the island of the ocean which is called Scani, dressed in armour, and he was a very young boy, and the inhabitants of that land knew nothing about him; however, he was received by them, and kept with care and affection as though he were of their own kin, and afterwards they chose him to be king, from whose stock the King Athulf [Ethelwulf] derives his line.’ [194]
The Prelude seems to be an attempt to connect the poem's hero with the mythological ancestors of the Teutonic nations. Thomas Arnold states: ‘It’s undisputed that Sceaf, Scyld, and Beaw were among the legendary ancestors of the West Saxon kings. But this doesn’t mean much, as the poem itself shows that the same three were also among the legendary ancestors of the Danish kings.’ Ethelward, who wrote in the early tenth century, outlines the lineage of Ethelwulf, Alfred’s father. Ethelward mentions: ‘The seventeenth ancestor from Cerdic was Beo, the eighteenth was Scyld, and the nineteenth was Scef.’ Ethelward also adds: ‘Scef himself arrived on the island in the ocean called Scani with one small vessel, dressed in armor and as a very young boy. The people of that land knew nothing about him; however, they welcomed him and treated him with care and affection as if he were one of their own, and later they chose him to be king, from whom King Athulf [Ethelwulf] derives his lineage.’ [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
It may be noted that neither Scyld nor Scef is mentioned in the A.S. Chronicle (A.D. 855). William of Malmesbury, in his Gesta Regum, says that Scef was so called from the sheaf of wheat that lay at his head, that he was asleep when he arrived, and that when he grew up he became a king in the town then called Slaswic, now Haithebi (Rolls Ed., 1. 121).
It’s worth noting that neither Scyld nor Scef is mentioned in the A.S. Chronicle (CE 855). William of Malmesbury, in his Gesta Regum, states that Scef was named after the sheaf of wheat that was placed at his head while he was sleeping upon his arrival, and that he later became a king in the town that was then called Slaswic, now Haithebi (Rolls Ed., 1. 121).
Müllenhoff says: ‘If we look closely into the saga, the ship and the sheaf clearly point to navigation and agriculture, the arms and jewels to kingly rule—all four gifts, therefore, to the main elements and foundations of the oldest state of culture among the Germans [Teutons?] of the sea-board; and if the bearer of these symbols became the first king of the country, the meaning can only be this, that from his appearance the beginning of the oldest state of culture dates, and that generally before him no orderly way of leading a human life had existed.’
Müllenhoff says: ‘If we take a close look at the saga, the ship and the sheaf clearly symbolize navigation and agriculture, while the arms and jewels represent royal authority—all four gifts, then, relate to the core elements and foundations of the earliest culture among the Germans [Teutons?] of the coastal region; and if the holder of these symbols became the first king of the land, it can only mean that his emergence marks the beginning of the earliest cultural state, and that, generally speaking, there was no organized way of living a human life before him.’
Scyld (meaning Shield) refers to the fact that the king was the protector of the people in war, and is therefore symbolical, like Scef.
Scyld (meaning Shield) indicates that the king was the protector of the people during war, making it symbolic, like Scef.
The ship and the sheaf, the arms and the jewels and the shield—these are the symbols of that primitive civilization—the sheaf, the symbol of agriculture and food, the ship of [195]commerce, the arms of warfare, the jewels of reward of bravery, and the shield of the protection of the people by the king.
The ship and the sheaf, the weapons and the jewels, and the shield—these are the symbols of that early civilization. The sheaf represents agriculture and food, the ship signifies trade, the weapons are for warfare, the jewels symbolize the rewards for bravery, and the shield represents the king’s protection of the people.
Arnold mentions the fact that no writer not English mentions the saga of Scef and Scyld, and suggests that this is presumption for the English origin of the legend. I do not, however, think it is conclusive evidence. One is surprised that they are not mentioned in Icelandic literature. Yet somehow the impression on my mind is that these legends were probably brought by our Saxon and Danish ancestors from the Continent, and are taken for granted as well known to the hearers of the song. I think they probably formed part of the legendary genealogy of our common Germanic (Teutonic) ancestors, and happened to find their way into literature only among the English, or have survived only in the English.
Arnold points out that no writer outside of England mentions the saga of Scef and Scyld, and suggests that this indicates an English origin for the legend. However, I don’t think this is definitive proof. It’s surprising they aren’t referenced in Icelandic literature. Still, I feel that these legends were likely brought over by our Saxon and Danish ancestors from the Continent, and were assumed to be well-known to those listening to the song. I believe they were probably part of the legendary genealogy of our common Germanic (Teutonic) ancestors and just happened to be recorded in literature only among the English, or have only survived in English.
III
‘BROSINGA MENE’
‘Brosinga Mene,’ p. 82, is the ‘Brisinga-mén’ mentioned in the Edda, an Icelandic poem. ‘This necklace is the Brisinga-mén—the costly necklace of Freja, which she won [196]from the Dwarfs, and which was stolen from her by Loki, as is told in the Edda’ (Kemble).
‘Brosinga Mene,’ p. 82, is the ‘Brisinga-mén’ mentioned in the Edda, an Icelandic poem. ‘This necklace is the Brisinga-mén—the expensive necklace of Freja, which she won [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]from the Dwarfs, and which was stolen from her by Loki, as described in the Edda’ (Kemble).
Loki was a Scandinavian demi-god. He was beautiful and cunning. He was the principle of strife, the spirit of evil; cp. Job’s Satan. Freya was the Scandinavian Goddess of Love. She claimed half of the slain in battle. She was the dispenser of joy and happiness. The German frau is derived from Freya. Hama carried off this necklace when he fled from Eormanric. The origin of this legend, though worked up in the Edda, seems to have been German or Gothic, and ‘Brosinga’ has reference to the rock-plateau of Breisgau on the Rhine. It is probably a relic of the lost saga of Eormanric (see Appendix IV.), the famous Ostrogothic king referred to in Chapter XVIII. Eormanric is one of the few historical personages of the poem.
Loki was a Scandinavian demigod. He was beautiful and cunning. He represented strife and evil, like Job’s Satan. Freya was the Scandinavian Goddess of Love. She claimed half of those who died in battle. She was the source of joy and happiness. The German frau comes from Freya. Hama took this necklace when he escaped from Eormanric. The origin of this legend, while elaborated in the Edda, seems to have been German or Gothic and ‘Brosinga’ refers to the rock plateau of Breisgau on the Rhine. It is likely a remnant of the lost saga of Eormanric (see Appendix IV.), the famous Ostrogothic king mentioned in Chapter XVIII. Eormanric is one of the few historical figures in the poem.
IV
EORMANRIC
Gibbon mentions Eormanric in his chapter XXV. of the Decline and Fall, and, in spite of chronological discrepancies, this Eormanric is probably identical with the one mentioned in Beowulf (Chapter XVIII.), in Jornandes (Chapter XXIV.), and in the Edda. [197]
Gibbon talks about Eormanric in his chapter XXV of the Decline and Fall, and despite some chronological inconsistencies, this Eormanric is likely the same as the one mentioned in Beowulf (Chapter XVIII.), Jornandes (Chapter XXIV.), and in the Edda. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
In Jornandes the story is as follows.
In Jornandes, the story goes like this.
Characters
Characters
- 1. Ermanaric.
- 2. A Chief of the Roxolani tribe who was a traitor.
- 3. Sanielh (= Swanhild) wife of the chief.
-
4. Sarus crane, 
brothers of Sanielh. 5. Ammius,
Ermanaric puts Sanielh to death by causing her to be torn to pieces by wild horses, because of the treachery of her husband, the chief of the Roxolani. Her brothers, Ammius and Sarus, avenge her death by attacking Ermanaric, but they only succeed in wounding him and disabling him for the rest of his life.
Ermanaric has Sanielh killed by having her torn apart by wild horses, due to her husband's betrayal as the leader of the Roxolani. Her brothers, Ammius and Sarus, seek revenge for her death by attacking Ermanaric, but they only manage to wound him and leave him incapacitated for the rest of his life.
In the Edda the story is as follows.
In the Edda, the story goes like this.
Characters
Cast
- 1. Gudrun, widow of Sigurd and Atli.
- 2. Swanhild, daughter of Gudrun by Sigurd.
- 3. Jonakur, Gudrun’s third husband.
-
4. Sörli, 
sons of Gudrun and Jonakur. 5. Hamthir, 6. ERP, - 7. Jormunrek (Eormanric).
- 8. Randver, son of Jormunrek.
Jormunrek hears of the beauty of Swanhild and sends his son Randver to seek her out for him in marriage. Gudrun consents; on the way Randver is incited by the traitor Bicci to betray Swanhild, and is then accused by him to the king. For this treachery [198]Jormunrek hangs Randver and causes Swanhild to be trampled to death by wild horses. Then the three sons of Gudrun set out to avenge their sister. On the way his two brothers kill Erp, and are consequently unable to kill Jormunrek. They only succeed in maiming him.
Jormunrek hears about the beauty of Swanhild and sends his son Randver to ask for her hand in marriage. Gudrun agrees; during the journey, Randver is tempted by the traitor Bicci to betray Swanhild, and Bicci then accuses him to the king. For this betrayal [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]Jormunrek hangs Randver and makes Swanhild be trampled to death by wild horses. Then, Gudrun's three sons set out to take revenge for their sister. On the way, his two brothers kill Erp, which prevents them from killing Jormunrek. They only manage to injure him.
Saxo Grammaticus, to whom we also owe the story of Hamlet, tells a similar story.
Saxo Grammaticus, who we also credit for the story of Hamlet, tells a similar tale.
Characters
Characters
- 1. Jarmeric, a Danish King.
- 2. Swawilda (= Swanhild), wife of Jarmeric.
- 3. Hellespont brothers, brothers of Swawilda.
- 4. Bicco, a servant of Jarmeric.
Bicco accuses Swawilda to Jarmeric of unfaithfulness. He causes her to be torn to pieces by wild horses. Then her brothers kill Jarmeric with the help of a witch, Gudrun, hewing off his hands and feet.
Bicco accuses Swawilda of being unfaithful to Jarmeric. He has her ripped apart by wild horses. After that, her brothers, with the help of a witch named Gudrun, kill Jarmeric by chopping off his hands and feet.
These three stories are evidently based on one common original. [199]
These three stories clearly originate from one shared source. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
V
MARRIAGE OF FREAWARU AND INGELD
Characters
Cast
- 1. Freawaru, daughter of Hrothgar the Dane.
- 2. Ingeld, son of Froda, King of the Heathobards.
- 3. Froda, King of the Heathobards.
- 4. A Heathobard warrior.
- 5. Son of the Danish warrior who had killed Froda.
The Heathobards were a people in Zealand. There had been an ancient feud between the Danes and the Heathobards in which Froda had been killed by a Danish warrior. Hrothgar hoped to appease the feud by the marriage of his daughter Freawaru to Ingeld. Unluckily, the son of the Danish warrior who had killed Froda accompanied Freawaru to Ingeld’s Court. Then an old Heathobard warrior notices this and stirs up strife. The marriage fails in its object, and war breaks out again between the Danes and the Heathobards. Beowulf predicts the course of events in his speech to Hygelac (Chapters XXVIII. and XXIX.). [200]
The Heathobards were a group of people in Zealand. There had been an old feud between the Danes and the Heathobards, during which Froda was killed by a Danish warrior. Hrothgar hoped to resolve the feud by marrying his daughter Freawaru to Ingeld. Unfortunately, the son of the Danish warrior who killed Froda came along with Freawaru to Ingeld’s Court. An old Heathobard warrior noticed this and started trouble. The marriage didn’t achieve its goal, and war broke out again between the Danes and the Heathobards. Beowulf predicts the outcome of events in his speech to Hygelac (Chapters XXVIII. and XXIX.). [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
VI
FINN
The Finn episode (Chapters XVI. and XVII.) is one of those events in Beowulf that would be quite well known to the first hearers of the song, but to us is lacking in that clearness we might desire. Fortunately, Dr. Hickes discovered a fragment entitled, ‘The Fight at Finnsburgh,’ on the back of a MS. of the Homilies. From Beowulf and from this fragment we are able to piece together an intelligible story. It is probably as follows:
The Finn episode (Chapters XVI and XVII.) is one of those events in Beowulf that would be well known to the first audiences of the poem, but for us, it lacks the clarity we might wish for. Luckily, Dr. Hickes discovered a fragment called 'The Fight at Finnsburgh' on the back of a manuscript of the Homilies. From Beowulf and from this fragment, we can piece together a clear story. It probably goes like this:
Characters
Characters
- 1. Finn, King of the North Frisians and Jutes.
- 2. Hoc, a Danish chieftain.
- 3. Hildeburh, daughter of Hoc.
- 4. Hnaef, son of Hoc.
- 5. Hengest, son of Hoc.
- 6. Two sons of Finn and Hildeburh.
- 7. Hunlafing, a Finnish warrior.
- 8. Guthlaf and Oslaf, two Danish warriors.
Finn abducts Hildeburh, the daughter of Hoc, the Dane. Hoc pursues the two fugitives and is killed in the mêlée. Twenty years pass by—Hnaef and Hengest, sons of Hoc, take up the ‘vendetta.’ In the fighting Hnaef and a son of Finn and Hildeburh are slain. A peace is patched up. Hengest, son of Hoc, [201]is persuaded to remain as a guest of Finn for the winter, and it is agreed that no reference shall be made by either side to the feud between them. Then the bodies of Hnaef, Hildeburh’s brother, and of her son are burnt together on the funeral pyre, ‘and great is the mourning of Hildeburh for her son.’ But Hengest is ever brooding vengeance. The strife breaks out anew in the spring. Hengest is killed, but two of his warriors, Guthlaf and Oslaf, break through the enemy, return to Finn’s country, and slay him and carry off Hildeburh. ‘The Fight at Finnsburgh,’ which is Homeric in style, is the account of the first invasion of Finn by Hnaef and Hengest, and Wyatt fits it in before the Finn episode on p. 75. Möller places it after the phrase, ‘whose edge was well known to the Jutes,’ on p. 79.
Finn kidnaps Hildeburh, the daughter of Hoc, the Dane. Hoc chases after the two runaways and is killed in the chaos. Twenty years go by—Hnaef and Hengest, sons of Hoc, seek revenge. In the fighting, Hnaef and one of Finn's sons, along with Hildeburh, are killed. A temporary peace is made. Hengest, son of Hoc, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]is convinced to stay as a guest of Finn for the winter, and they agree not to mention the feud between them. Then the bodies of Hnaef, Hildeburh’s brother, and her son are burned together on the funeral pyre, ‘and Hildeburh mourns greatly for her son.’ But Hengest is constantly seeking revenge. The conflict breaks out again in the spring. Hengest is killed, but two of his warriors, Guthlaf and Oslaf, break through the enemy lines, return to Finn’s territory, kill him, and take Hildeburh away. ‘The Fight at Finnsburgh,’ which has a Homeric style, recounts the initial invasion of Finn by Hnaef and Hengest, and Wyatt includes it before the Finn episode on p. 75. Möller places it after the phrase, ‘whose edge was well known to the Jutes,’ on p. 79.
VII
HYGELAC
Hygelac, son of Hrethel, was king of the Geats, and uncle of Beowulf, his sister’s son. He was the reigning king of Beowulf’s fellow countrymen the Geats during the greater part of the action of the poem. Beowulf is often [202]called ‘Hygelac’s kinsman,’ and when he went forth to his battle with Grendel’s mother (Chapter XXII.), he bade Hrothgar in case of his death send the treasures he had given to him to Hygelac. Hygelac married Hygd, who is presented to us as a good Queen, the daughter of Hæreth. She was ‘very young,’ ‘of noble character,’ and ‘wise.’ She is compared, to her advantage, with Thrytho, who was a shrewish woman. No one dared to look upon her except her husband. However, her second husband, Offa, seems to have ‘tamed the shrew’ (see p. 120). Hygelac has been identified with Chocilaicus, who was killed in the famous raid on the Chatuarii referred to in the Historia Francorum and the Gesta Regum, who are identified with the Hetware of this poem (see p. 143 and Appendix I.).
Hygelac, son of Hrethel, was king of the Geats and Beowulf's uncle, being his sister's son. He was the ruling king of Beowulf's fellow Geats for most of the poem's events. Beowulf is often called ‘Hygelac’s kinsman,’ and when he went to battle with Grendel’s mother (Chapter XXII), he asked Hrothgar to send the treasures he had given him to Hygelac in case he died. Hygelac was married to Hygd, who is described as a good Queen, the daughter of Hæreth. She was ‘very young,’ ‘of noble character,’ and ‘wise.’ She is favorably compared to Thrytho, who was a difficult woman. No one dared to look at her except her husband. However, her second husband, Offa, seems to have ‘tamed the shrew’ (see p. 120). Hygelac has been identified with Chocilaicus, who was killed in the famous raid on the Chatuarii mentioned in the Historia Francorum and the Gesta Regum, which are linked to the Hetware in this poem (see p. 143 and Appendix I).
On the death of Hygelac his son Heardred succeeded to the throne (Chapter XXXI., p. 134); and, after a brief interval, he was killed in battle by Onela (see Appendix IX.). Then Beowulf succeeded to the throne of the [203]Geats (Chapter XXXI., p. 134). Hygelac died between a.d. 512 and 520. Beowulf died about 568. He reigned fifty years.
On Hygelac's death, his son Heardred took over the throne (Chapter XXXI., p. 134); shortly after, he was killed in battle by Onela (see Appendix IX.). After that, Beowulf became king of the [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]Geats (Chapter XXXI., p. 134). Hygelac died sometime between 512 and 520 AD. Beowulf passed away around 568. He ruled for fifty years.
VIII
HÆTHCYN AND HEREBALD
It would seem doubtful as to whether this was deliberate or accidental. The poet says ‘Hæthcyn missed the mark’ with his javelin and killed his brother Herebald; but subsequently he speaks as though it had been deliberate murder.
It’s uncertain whether this was intentional or accidental. The poet states, ‘Hæthcyn missed the mark’ with his javelin and ended up killing his brother Herebald; however, later he talks as if it was a premeditated murder.
IX
WARS BETWEEN THE SWEDES AND THE GEATS
Characters
Characters
1. Swedes
Swedish people
- 1. Ongentheow, King of the Swedes.
-
2. On there, his two sons. 3. Onela, -
4. Eadgils, two sons of Ohthere. 5. Eanmund,
2. Geats, &c.
Geats, etc.
- 6. Hæthcyn, King of Geats.
- 7. Hygelac, King of Geats.
- 8. Heardred, King of Geats.
- 9. Beowulf, King of Geats.
-
10. Eofor, two Geat warriors. 11. Wulf,
Ongentheow was a King of the Swedes. The Swedes are also called Scylfings in the [204]poem. The origin of the word ‘Scylfing’ is doubtful. Ongentheow went to war with Hæthcyn, King of the Geats and brother of Hygelac; and Ongentheow, who was well advanced in years, struck down his foe (Chapter XL., p. 173) at the battle of Ravenswood. This was the first time that the Swedes invaded the Geats. The Geats retreated into the Ravenswood at nightfall, but with the dawn they heard the horn of Hygelac ‘as the good prince came marching on the track.’ Ongentheow now was alarmed, for Hygelac’s prowess in battle was far-famed. He withdrew into some fortification, and was attacked by the Geats. Two brothers, Eofor and Wulf, assailed the veteran warrior. He defended himself with great vigour and killed Wulf; but Eofor came to the help of his brother and dealt Ongentheow his death-blow over the guard of his shield.
Ongentheow was a King of the Swedes. The Swedes are also called Scylfings in the [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] poem. The origin of the word ‘Scylfing’ is uncertain. Ongentheow went to war against Hæthcyn, King of the Geats and brother of Hygelac; and Ongentheow, who was already quite old, defeated his enemy (Chapter XL., p. 173) in the battle of Ravenswood. This was the first time the Swedes invaded the Geats. The Geats fell back into the Ravenswood as night fell, but at dawn they heard the horn of Hygelac ‘as the good prince came marching on the track.’ Ongentheow became worried now, for Hygelac’s battle skills were well-known. He retreated into a fortification and was attacked by the Geats. Two brothers, Eofor and Wulf, charged at the seasoned warrior. He fought back fiercely and killed Wulf; but Eofor rushed to his brother’s aid and struck Ongentheow the fatal blow over the guard of his shield.
Ongentheow’s two sons were Onela and Ohthere. Ohthere had two sons, Eanmund and Eadgils.
Ongentheow’s two sons were Onela and Ohthere. Ohthere had two sons, Eanmund and Eadgils.
These two sons of Ohthere were banished from Sweden for rebellion, and took refuge at the Court of the Geat King Heardred. This greatly enraged their uncle Onela, that they should resort to the Court of their hereditary foes (see above). Onela invaded the land of [205]the Geats (Chapters XXXIII. and XXXIV., pp. 144 sq.) and slew Heardred. Then it was that Beowulf became King of the Geats. Thus two Geatish kings had been slain by the Swedes, viz. Hæthcyn and Heardred. In revenge, later on, Beowulf supported Eadgils in his counter-attack on his own fatherland when Eadgils killed his uncle Onela. This story is confirmed by the Scandinavian accounts in which Athils (= Eadgils) slew Ali (= Onela) on the ice of Lake Wener; cp. the phrase ‘cold journeyings’ (Chapter XXXIV., p. 145).
These two sons of Ohthere were exiled from Sweden for rebellion and sought refuge at the court of the Geat king, Heardred. This infuriated their uncle Onela, that they would turn to the court of their historical enemies (see above). Onela invaded the land of the Geats (Chapters XXXIII and XXXIV, pp. 144 sq.) and killed Heardred. It was then that Beowulf became the King of the Geats. Thus, two Geatish kings had been killed by the Swedes: Hæthcyn and Heardred. In retaliation, later on, Beowulf backed Eadgils in his attack on his own homeland when Eadgils killed his uncle Onela. This story is supported by the Scandinavian narratives in which Athils (= Eadgils) killed Ali (= Onela) on the ice of Lake Wener; see the phrase ‘cold journeyings’ (Chapter XXXIV, p. 145).
This is Wyatt’s version of the story.
This is Wyatt's version of the story.
X
SIGMUND
Sigmund (page 65) is the father and uncle of Fitela. He is stated in Beowulf to have killed a serpent who kept guard over a hoard of treasure. In the Icelandic saga known as the Völsunga Saga, Sigmund is represented as the father of Sigurd, and ‘it is Sigurd who rifles the treasure of the Niblungs and kills the serpent (Fafnir), its guardian’ (Arnold, p. 69), and he carries it away on the back of his horse Grani. Sigmund is represented as the son of a Völsung; that is, as Beowulf has it, ‘the heir of Waels.’ Waels was afterwards [206]forgotten, however, and Waelsing was regarded as a proper name instead of a patronymic denoting descent from Waels. In a similar way, as Arnold points out, Sigmund is pushed into the background to make room for his son Sigurd (Siegfried). ‘And so in the German Nibelungen Lay it is Sigurd (Siegfried) who wins the hoard, but does so by defeating and killing its former possessors Schilbung and Nibelung’ (Arnold, p. 70). Attempts have been made to claim a German origin for this saga, but in face of the evidence of Beowulf and the Völsunga Saga and the Edda there is, I think with Arnold, little doubt but that its origin was Scandinavian. Possibly and probably we owe the later elaboration of the saga in the Nibelungen Lay to German influence. For discussion of the whole question see Arnold’s Notes on Beowulf, pp. 67–75, Edit. 1898, cap. v.
Sigmund (page 65) is both the father and uncle of Fitela. In Beowulf, it’s mentioned that he killed a serpent that guarded a treasure. The Icelandic saga known as the Völsunga Saga portrays Sigmund as the father of Sigurd, and it is Sigurd who takes the treasure of the Niblungs and kills its guardian, the serpent Fafnir (Arnold, p. 69), carrying it away on his horse Grani. Sigmund is depicted as the son of a Völsung; as Beowulf states, he is ‘the heir of Waels.’ However, Waels was later forgotten, and Waelsing was considered a proper name rather than a patronymic indicating descent from Waels. Similarly, as Arnold points out, Sigmund is overshadowed to highlight his son Sigurd (Siegfried). ‘Thus, in the German Nibelungen Lay, it is Sigurd (Siegfried) who wins the treasure by defeating and killing its previous owners, Schilbung and Nibelung’ (Arnold, p. 70). There have been attempts to claim that this saga has German origins, but based on the evidence from Beowulf, the Völsunga Saga, and the Edda, I agree with Arnold that it most likely originated in Scandinavia. It’s possible and likely that the later development of the saga in the Nibelungen Lay was influenced by German sources. For a detailed discussion on this entire topic, see Arnold’s Notes on Beowulf, pp. 67–75, Edit. 1898, cap. v.
XI
TRIBES MENTIONED IN THE POEM
1. Brondings. Breca was a Bronding. After his famous swimming-match with Beowulf (Chapter VIII.), he is said to have sought out his ‘pleasant fatherland the land of the [207]Brondings.’ Arnold suggests that they were located in Mecklenburg or Pomerania.
1. Brondings. Breca was a Bronding. After his famous swimming match with Beowulf (Chapter VIII.), it's said he went in search of his "nice homeland, the land of the [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]Brondings." Arnold suggests they were in Mecklenburg or Pomerania.
2. Danes, also called Bright-Danes, Ring-Danes, Spear-Danes, because of their warlike character; and North Danes, South Danes, &c., because of their wide distribution. They are said to have inhabited the Scede lands and Scedenig and ‘between the seas’; that is, they were spread over the Danish Islands, the southern province of Sweden, and the seas between them.
2. Danes, also known as Bright-Danes, Ring-Danes, and Spear-Danes, due to their warrior nature; and North Danes, South Danes, etc., because of their extensive presence. They are believed to have lived in the Scede lands and Scedenig and ‘between the seas’; meaning they were spread across the Danish Islands, the southern part of Sweden, and the waters connecting them.
3. Jutes (Eotenas), probably people ruled over by Finn, King of Friesland, and identical with the Frisians.
3. Jutes (Eotenas), likely people governed by Finn, King of Friesland, and the same as the Frisians.
4. Franks and Frisians. The Franks were ancestors of the modern French. After the conversion of Clovis (A.D. 496), they gradually encroached on the Frisians.
4. Franks and Frisians. The Franks were the ancestors of modern French people. After Clovis's conversion (CE 496), they slowly expanded into Frisian territory.
5. Frisians include the Frisians, the Franks, the Hetware, and the Hugs. Friesland was the country between the River Ems and the Zuyder Zee.
5. Frisians include the Frisians, the Franks, the Hetware, and the Hugs. Friesland was the region between the Ems River and the Zuiderzee.
6. Geats. They dwelt in the south of Sweden between the Danes and the Swedes. Bugge sought to identify them with the Jutes, and held that Gautland was Juteland. He based this theory on certain phrases: e.g. Chapter XXXIII., where the Swedes (the sons of Ohthere) are said to have visited the [208]Geats ‘across the sea,’ and again in Chapter XXXV. the Swedes and the Geats are said to have fought ‘over wide water’; but, as Arnold points out, these phrases can be interpreted in such a way as not to be incompatible with the theory that they dwelt on the same side of the Cattegat, i.e. on the northern side, and in the extreme south of Sweden.
6. Geats. They lived in the southern part of Sweden, between the Danes and the Swedes. Bugge tried to link them to the Jutes, arguing that Gautland was Juteland. He based this idea on certain phrases: for example, in Chapter XXXIII., where the Swedes (the sons of Ohthere) are said to have traveled to the [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]Geats ‘across the sea,’ and again in Chapter XXXV. where the Swedes and the Geats are mentioned as having fought ‘over wide water’; however, as Arnold points out, these phrases can be understood in a way that isn’t inconsistent with the theory that they lived on the same side of the Cattegat, specifically on the northern side, in the far south of Sweden.
The question as to whether they are identical with the Goths of Roman history is still an open one. Arnold says, ‘There is a great weight of evidence tending to identify the Geats with the Goths,’ and he quotes evidence from Gibbon (chapter X.). Pytheas of Marseilles, in the fourth century, says that, passing through the Baltic Sea, he met with tribes of Goths, Teutons, and Ests.
The question of whether they are the same as the Goths of Roman history is still unresolved. Arnold states, “There is a strong body of evidence suggesting that the Geats are the same as the Goths,” and he cites support from Gibbon (chapter X.). Pytheas of Marseilles, in the fourth century, mentions that while traveling through the Baltic Sea, he encountered tribes of Goths, Teutons, and Estonians.
Tacitus, in chapter XLIII. of Germania, speaks of the Goths as dwelling near the Swedes. Jornandes traces the Goths to Scanzia, an island in the Northern Sea. It is probable, then, that the Goths had a northern and indeed a Scandinavian origin. If so, Beowulf the Geat was probably a Goth.
Tacitus, in chapter XLIII of Germania, mentions that the Goths lived near the Swedes. Jornandes identifies the Goths as coming from Scanzia, an island in the Northern Sea. It’s likely, then, that the Goths had a northern and possibly Scandinavian origin. If that's the case, Beowulf the Geat was probably a Goth.
7. Healfdenes. The tribe to which Hnaef belonged.
7. Healfdenes. The tribe that Hnaef was part of.
8. Heathoremes. The people on whose shores Beowulf was cast up after his swimming-match with Breca. [209]
8. Heathoremes. The people who lived on the shores where Beowulf ended up after his swimming match with Breca. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
9. Ingwine. Friends of Ing—another name for the Danes.
9. Ingwine. Friends of Ing—another term for the Danes.
10. Scyldingas. Another name for the Danes, as descended from Scyld.
10. Scyldingas. Another name for the Danes, who are descended from Scyld.
11. Scylfingas. Name for the Swedes.
11. Scylfingas. Name for the Swedes.
12. Waegmundings. The tribe to which both Beowulf and Wiglaf belonged.
12. Waegmundings. The clan that both Beowulf and Wiglaf were a part of.
13. Wylfings. Probably a Gothic tribe.
13. Wylfings. Likely a Gothic tribe.
XII
PAGE 135
The text here is much mutilated, and can only be restored by ingenious conjecture. Grein and Bugge and others have reconstructed it. On the whole Bugge’s text, which I have followed, seems to me the most reasonable. It is unfortunate that the text should be so imperfect just at this critical point in the linking up of the two great divisions of the story. In the ancient days some remote predecessors of the Geats seem to have heaped up in the neighbourhood a pile of wonderful vessels jewel-bedecked, and treasures of all kinds, of inconceivable value. Then the last of the race carries the treasure to a barrow or cavern in the cliffs near the site, in after-generations, of Beowulf’s palace, and delivers a pathetic farewell address (pp. 136 et seq.). The [210]dragon finds the cavern and the treasure and appropriates it for three hundred years. Then one of Beowulf’s retainers finds the treasure and takes a golden goblet while the dragon is sleeping, and offers it to his lord as a peace-offering. This brought about Beowulf’s feud with the dragon in which he met his death. [211]
The text here is heavily damaged and can only be pieced together through clever guesses. Grein, Bugge, and others have tried to reconstruct it. Overall, Bugge’s version, which I have followed, seems to be the most sensible. It’s unfortunate that the text is so flawed right at this critical moment in connecting the two main parts of the story. In ancient times, some distant ancestors of the Geats appear to have gathered a collection of amazing, jewel-encrusted vessels and treasures of unimaginable worth nearby. Then, the last survivor of that lineage takes the treasure to a burial mound or cave in the cliffs close to where Beowulf's palace would later be, and delivers an emotional farewell speech (pp. 136 et seq.). The [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]dragon discovers the cave and the treasure and claims it for three hundred years. Then one of Beowulf’s warriors finds the treasure and takes a golden goblet while the dragon is asleep, presenting it to his lord as a peace offering. This incident leads to Beowulf’s conflict with the dragon, which ultimately results in his death. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
BOOKS CONSULTED
Beowulf, edited with textual footnotes, &c., by A. J. Wyatt, M.A. (Cantab. and London). Pitt Press, Cambridge, 1898.
Beowulf, edited with textual footnotes, &c., by A. J. Wyatt, M.A. (Cantab. and London). Pitt Press, Cambridge, 1898.
Zupitza’s Transliteration of Beowulf. A photographic reproduction of the manuscript. Early English Text Society.
Zupitza's Transliteration of Beowulf. A photographic reproduction of the manuscript. Early English Text Society.
Encyclopaedia Britannica.
Encyclopedia Britannica.
Chambers’s Encyclopaedia.
Chambers' Encyclopedia.
Beowulf, Notes on, by Thomas Arnold, M.A., 1898. Longmans, Green & Co. This contains a good map of the scenes alluded to in the poem.
Beowulf, Notes on, by Thomas Arnold, M.A., 1898. Longmans, Green & Co. This includes a helpful map of the locations mentioned in the poem.
History of Early English Literature, by the Rev. Stopford Brooke.
History of Early English Literature, by Rev. Stopford Brooke.
Ten Brink’s English Literature. [212]
Ten Brink’s English Literature. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
PRINTED BY
HAZELL, WATSON AND VINEY, LD.,
LONDON AND AYLESBURY.
PRINTED BY
HAZELL, WATSON AND VINEY, LD.,
LONDON AND AYLESBURY.
Table of Contents
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Availability
Scans for this book are available from the Internet Archive (copy 1).
Scans for this book can be found on the Internet Archive (copy 1).
Related Open Library catalog page (for source): OL7145889M.
Related Open Library catalog page (for source): OL7145889M.
Related Open Library catalog page (for work): OL16333220W.
Related Open Library catalog page (for work): OL16333220W.
Related WorldCat catalog page: 1150392.
Related WorldCat catalog page: __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__.
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