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My Wife[v]CONTENTS.

Beowulf Brings his Trophies (XXV.)57

The present work is a modest effort to reproduce approximately, in modern measures, the venerable epic, Beowulf. , I repeat; for a very close reproduction of Anglo-Saxon verse would, to a large extent, be prose to a modern ear.
The Heyne-Socin text and glossary have been closely followed. Occasionally a deviation has been made, but always for what seemed good and sufficient reason. The translator does not aim to be an editor. Once in a while, however, he has added a conjecture of his own to the emendations quoted from the criticisms of other students of the poem.
This work is addressed to two classes of readers. From both of these alike the translator begs sympathy and co-operation. The Anglo-Saxon scholar he hopes to please by adhering faithfully to the original. The student of English literature he aims to interest by giving him, in modern garb, the most ancient epic of our race. This is a bold and venturesome undertaking; and yet there must be some students of the Teutonic past willing to follow even a daring guide, if they may read in modern phrases of the sorrows of Hrothgar, of the prowess of Beowulf, and of the feelings that stirred the hearts of our forefathers in their primeval homes.
In order to please the larger class of readers, a regular cadence has been used, a measure which, while retaining the essential characteristics of the original, permits the reader to see ahead of him in reading.
Perhaps every Anglo-Saxon scholar has his own theory as to how Beowulf should be translated. Some have given us prose versions of what we believe to be a great poem. Is it any reflection on our honored Kemble and Arnold to say that their translations fail to show a layman that Beowulf is justly called our first ? Of those translators who have used verse, several have written

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from what would seem a mistaken point of view. Is it proper, for instance, that the grave and solemn speeches of Beowulf and Hrothgar be put in ballad measures, tripping lightly and airily along? Or, again, is it fitting that the rough martial music of Anglo-Saxon verse be interpreted to us in the smooth measures of modern blank verse? Do we hear what has been beautifully called “the clanging tread of a warrior in mail”?
Of all English translations of Beowulf, that of Professor Garnett alone gives any adequate idea of the chief characteristics of this great Teutonic epic.
The measure used in the present translation is believed to be as near a reproduction of the original as modern English affords. The cadences closely resemble those used by Browning in some of his most striking poems. The four stresses of the Anglo-Saxon verse are retained, and as much thesis and anacrusis is allowed as is consistent with a regular cadence. Alliteration has been used to a large extent; but it was thought that modern ears would hardly tolerate it on every line. End-rhyme has been used occasionally; internal rhyme, sporadically. Both have some warrant in Anglo-Saxon poetry. (For end-rhyme, see 1 53, 1 54; for internal rhyme, 2 21, 6 40.)
What Gummere1 calls the “rime-giver” has been studiously kept; , the first accented syllable in the second half-verse always carries the alliteration; and the last accented syllable alliterates only sporadically. Alternate alliteration is occasionally used as in the original. (See 7 61, 8 5.)
No two accented syllables have been brought together, except occasionally after a cæsural pause. (See 2 19 and 12 1.) Or, scientifically speaking, Sievers’s C type has been avoided as not consonant with the plan of translation. Several of his types, however, constantly occur; A and a variant (/ x | / x) (/ x x | / x); B and a variant (x / | x / ) (x x / | x / ); a variant of D (/ x | / x x); E (/ x x | / ). Anacrusis gives further variety to the types used in the translation.
The parallelisms of the original have been faithfully preserved. (, 1 16 and 1 17: “Lord” and “Wielder of Glory”; 1 30, 1 31, 1 32; 2 12 and 2 13; 2 27 and 2 28; 3 5 and 3 6.) Occasionally, some loss has been sustained; but, on the other hand, a gain has here and there been made.
The effort has been made to give a decided flavor of archaism to the translation. All words not in keeping with the spirit of the poem have been

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avoided. Again, though many archaic words have been used, there are none, it is believed, which are not found in standard modern poetry.
With these preliminary remarks, it will not be amiss to give an outline of the story of the poem.





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It is the devout desire of this translator to hasten the day when the story of Beowulf shall be as familiar to English-speaking peoples as that of the Iliad. Beowulf is our first great epic. It is an epitomized history of the life of the Teutonic races. It brings vividly before us our forefathers of pre-Alfredian eras, in their love of war, of sea, and of adventure.
My special thanks are due to Professors Francis A. March and James A. Harrison, for advice, sympathy, and assistance.
J.L. HALL.

[1][xi]## ABBREVIATIONS USED IN THE NOTES.

B. = Bugge. C. = Cosijn. Gr. = Grein. Grdvtg. = Grundtvig. H. = Heyne. H. and S. = Harrison and Sharp. H.-So. = Heyne-Socin. K.= Kemble. Kl. = Kluge. M.= Müllenhoff. R. = Rieger. S. = Sievers. Sw. = Sweet. t.B. = ten Brink. Th. = Thorpe. W. = Wülcker.

BIBLIOGRAPHY OF TRANSLATIONS.

—Beowulf. A heroic poem of the eighth century. London, 1876. With English translation. Prose.
—Beowulf. Epopée Anglo-Saxonne. Havre, 1877. First French translation. Passages occasionally omitted.
—Illustrations of Anglo-Saxon Poetry. London, 1826. Full Latin translation, and some passages translated into English blank-verse.
—Beowulf, stabreimend übersetzt. Zürich, 1840.
—Beowulf: an Anglo-Saxon Poem, and the Fight at Finnsburg. Boston,

  1. An accurate line-for-line translation, using alliteration occasionally, and sometimes assuming a metrical cadence.
    —Dichtungen der Angelsachsen, stabreimend übersetzt. 2 Bde. Göttingen, 1857-59.
    —Beovulf, poema epico anglo-sassone del VII. secolo, tradotto e illustrato. Lucca, 1883. First Italian translation.
    —Bjowulfs Drape. Copenhagen, 1820.
    —A translation in iambic measures. Paderborn, 1863.
    —The Anglo-Saxon Poems of Beowulf, the Traveller’s Song, and the Battle of Finnsburg. London, 1833. The second edition contains a prose translation of Beowulf.
    —Ueber Beowulf. Halle, 1839. Translations of extracts.

[xii] —Beowulf, translated into modern rhymes. London, 1881. Ballad measures. Passages occasionally omitted.
—De carminibus Cædmoni adjudicatis. Paris, 1859. An extract from Beowulf, with Latin translation.
—Beowulf og Scopes Widsith, to Angelsaxiske Digte. Copenhagen, 1847.
—Beowulf. Uebersetzt und erläutert. Stuttgart und Augsburg, 1859. Alliterative measures.
—De Danorum rebus gestis secul. III. et IV. poema Danicum dialecto Anglosaxonica. Havniæ, 1815. Latin translation.
—The Anglo-Saxon Poems of Beowulf, the Scôp or Gleeman’s Tale, and the Fight at Finnsburg. Oxford, 1855. English translation in short lines, generally containing two stresses.
—Beowulf, translated into English verse. London, 1849.
—Beowulf, en fornengelsk hjeltedikt, öfersatt. Westervik. First Swedish translation.
—Beowulf, in alliterative measures. Leipzig.
—Der Kampf Beowulfs mit Grendel. Jahresbericht of the Realschule at Forbach, 1881.

[xiii]## GLOSSARY OF PROPER NAMES.

[The figures refer to the divisions of the poem in which the respective names occur. The large figures refer to fitts, the small, to lines in the fitts.]

.—A kinsman of Wiglaf.—36 3.
.—Confidential friend of King Hrothgar. Elder brother of Yrmenlaf. Killed by Grendel.—21 3; 30 89.
.—Father of Breca.—9 26.
.—Son of Scyld, the founder of the dynasty of Scyldings. Father of Healfdene, and grandfather of Hrothgar.—1 18; 2 1.
.—The hero of the poem. Sprung from the stock of Geats, son of Ecgtheow. Brought up by his maternal grandfather Hrethel, and figuring in manhood as a devoted liegeman of his uncle Higelac. A hero from his youth. Has the strength of thirty men. Engages in a swimming-match with Breca. Goes to the help of Hrothgar against the monster Grendel. Vanquishes Grendel and his mother. Afterwards becomes king of the Geats. Late in life attempts to kill a fire-spewing dragon, and is slain. Is buried with great honors. His memorial mound.—6 26; 7 2; 7 9; 9 3; 9 8; 12 28; 12 43; 23 1, etc.
.—Beowulf’s opponent in the famous swimming-match.—9 8; 9 19; 9 21; 9 22.
.—A people ruled by Breca.—9 23.
.—A famous collar once owned by the Brosings.—19 7.
.—Progenitor of Grendel and other monsters.—2 56; 20 11.
.—A warrior of the Hugs, killed by Beowulf.—35 40.
.—Subjects of Scyld and his descendants, and hence often called Scyldings. Other names for them are Victory-Scyldings, Honor-Scyldings, Armor-Danes, Bright-Danes, East-Danes, West-Danes, North-Danes, South-Danes, Ingwins, Hrethmen.—1 1; 2 1; 3 2; 5 14; 7 1, etc.
.—Father of Unferth, who taunts Beowulf.—9 1.
.—Father of Beowulf, the hero of the poem. A widely-known Wægmunding warrior. Marries Hrethel’s daughter. After slaying Heatholaf, a Wylfing, he flees his country.—7 3; 5 6; 8 4.
.—A king of the Danes before Scyld.—25 60.

[xiv] .—Sister of Hrothgar, and probably wife of Ongentheow, king of the Swedes.—2 10.
.—A promontory in Geat-land, under which took place Beowulf’s last encounter.—41 87.
.—Son of Ohthere and brother of Eanmund.—34 2.
.—Son of Ohthere and brother of Eadgils. The reference to these brothers is vague, and variously understood. Heyne supposes as follows: Raising a revolt against their father, they are obliged to leave Sweden. They go to the land of the Geats; with what intention, is not known, but probably to conquer and plunder. The Geatish king, Heardred, is slain by one of the brothers, probably Eanmund.—36 10; 31 54 to 31 60; 33 66 to 34 6.
.—A Geatish hero who slays Ongentheow in war, and is rewarded by Hygelac with the hand of his only daughter.—41 18; 41 48.
.—A Gothic king, from whom Hama took away the famous Brosinga mene.—19 9.
.—Son of Offa and Thrytho, king and queen of the Angles.—28 69.
.—King of the North-Frisians and the Jutes. Marries Hildeburg. At his court takes place the horrible slaughter in which the Danish general, Hnæf, fell. Later on, Finn himself is slain by Danish warriors.—17 18; 17 30; 17 44; 18 4; 18 23.
.—The country to which Beowulf was driven by the currents in his swimming-match.—10 22.
.—Son and nephew of King Sigemund, whose praises are sung in XIV.—14 42; 14 53.
.—Father of Finn.—17 38.
.—Introduced occasionally in referring to the death of Higelac.—19 19; 40 21; 40 24.
.—A part of them are ruled by Finn. Some of them were engaged in the struggle in which Higelac was slain.—17 20; 17 42; 17 52; 40 21.
.—Daughter of King Hrothgar. Married to Ingeld, a Heathobard prince.—29 60; 30 32.
.—King of the Heathobards, and father of Ingeld.—29 62.
.—Father of Offa.—28 71.
.—The race to which the hero of the poem belongs. Also called Weder-Geats, or Weders, War-Geats, Sea-Geats. They are ruled by Hrethel, Hæthcyn, Higelac, and Beowulf.—4 7; 7 4; 10 45; 11 8; 27 14; 28 8.
.—Named in connection with the Danes and Swedes.—35 34.
.—A monster of the race of Cain. Dwells in the fens and moors. Is furiously envious when he hears sounds of joy in Hrothgar’s palace. Causes the king untold agony for years. Is finally conquered by Beowulf, and dies of his wound. His hand and arm are hung up in Hrothgar’s hall Heorot. His head is cut off by Beowulf when he goes down to fight with Grendel’s mother.—2 50; 3 1; 3 13; 8 19; 11 17; 12 2; 13 27; 15 3.
.—A Dane of Hnæf’s party.—18 24.
.—Branch of the Danes to which Hnæf belonged.—17 19.

[xv] .—Surnamed the Good. Younger brother of Hrothgar.—2 9.
.—Takes the Brosinga mene from Eormenric.—19 7.
.—Father of Higelac’s queen, Hygd.—28 39; 29 18.
.—Son of Hrethel and brother of Higelac. Kills his brother Herebeald accidentally. Is slain at Ravenswood, fighting against Ongentheow.—34 43; 35 23; 40 32.
.—The race to which Queen Wealhtheow belonged.—10 63.
.—A kinsman of Garmund, perhaps nephew.—28 54; 28 70.
.—A Danish leader. Takes command on the fall of Hnæf.—17 33; 17 41.
.—Eldest son of Hrethel, the Geatish king, and brother of Higelac. Killed by his younger brother Hæthcyn.—34 43; 34 47.
.—A Danish king of a dynasty before the Scylding line. Was a source of great sorrow to his people.—14 64; 25 59.
.—Referred to as uncle of Heardred, but otherwise unknown.—31 60.
.—Another name for the Franks.—33 51.
.—Grandson of Scyld and father of Hrothgar. Ruled the Danes long and well.—2 5; 4 1; 8 14.
.—Son of Higelac and Hygd, king and queen of the Geats. Succeeds his father, with Beowulf as regent. Is slain by the sons of Ohthere.—31 56; 33 63; 33 75.
.—Race of Lombards, of which Froda is king. After Froda falls in battle with the Danes, Ingeld, his son, marries Hrothgar’s daughter, Freaware, in order to heal the feud.—30 1; 30 6.
.—A Wylfing warrior slain by Beowulf’s father.—8 5.
.—The people on whose shores Breca is cast by the waves during his contest with Beowulf.—9 21.
.—Elder brother of Hrothgar, and surnamed ‘Weoroda Ræswa,’ Prince of the Troopers.—2 9; 8 12.
.—Son of the above.—31 17.
, .—The great mead-hall which King Hrothgar builds. It is invaded by Grendel for twelve years. Finally cleansed by Beowulf, the Geat. It is called Heort on account of the hart-antlers which decorate it.—2 25; 3 32; 3 52.
.—Wife of Finn, daughter of Hoce, and related to Hnæf,—probably his sister.—17 21; 18 34.
.—Leader of a branch of the Danes called Half-Danes. Killed in the struggle at Finn’s castle.—17 19; 17 61.
.—One of Beowulf’s companions. Killed by Grendel just before Beowulf grappled with that monster.—30 43.
.—Father of Hildeburg and probably of Hnæf.—17 26.
.—King of the Geats, father of Higelac, and grandfather of Beowulf.—7 4; 34 39.
.—Once used for Hrethel.—7 82.
.—Another name for the Danes.—7 73.
.—Son of Hrothgar.—18 65; 27 19.

[xvi] .—A promontory in Geat-land, near which Ohthere’s sons made plundering raids.—35 18.
.—The Danish king who built the hall Heort, but was long unable to enjoy it on account of Grendel’s persecutions. Marries Wealhtheow, a Helming lady. Has two sons and a daughter. Is a typical Teutonic king, lavish of gifts. A devoted liegelord, as his lamentations over slain liegemen prove. Also very appreciative of kindness, as is shown by his loving gratitude to Beowulf.—2 9; 2 12; 4 1; 8 10; 15 1; etc., etc.
.—Son of Hrothgar.—18 65.
.—Probably a son of Halga, younger brother of Hrothgar. Certainly on terms of close intimacy in Hrothgar’s palace.—16 26; 18 57.
.—Unferth’s sword, lent to Beowulf.—22 71; 25 9.
.—A race in alliance with the Franks and Frisians at the time of Higelac’s fall.—35 41.
.—A Frisian warrior, probably general of the Hetwars. Gives Hengest a beautiful sword.—18 19.
.—Sometimes used for Unferth.
, .—King of the Geats, uncle and liegelord of Beowulf, the hero of the poem.—His second wife is the lovely Hygd, daughter of Hæreth. The son of their union is Heardred. Is slain in a war with the Hugs, Franks, and Frisians combined. Beowulf is regent, and afterwards king of the Geats.—4 6; 5 4; 28 34; 29 9; 29 21; 31 56.
.—Wife of Higelac, and daughter of Hæreth. There are some indications that she married Beowulf after she became a widow.—28 37.
.—Son of the Heathobard king, Froda. Marries Hrothgar’s daughter, Freaware, in order to reconcile the two peoples.—29 62; 30 32.
.—Another name for the Danes.—16 52; 20 69.
.—Name sometimes applied to Finn’s people.—17 22; 17 38; 18 17.
.—Name of a famous sword presented to Hengest by Hun.—18 19.
.—A Frankish king, probably engaged in the war in which Higelac was slain.—40 29.
.—Beowulf’s sword.—36 76.
.—King of the Angles, and son of Garmund. Marries the terrible Thrytho who is so strongly contrasted with Hygd.—28 59; 28 66.
.—Son of Ongentheow, king of the Swedes. He is father of Eanmund and Eadgils.—40 35; 40 39.
.—Brother of Ohthere.—36 15; 40 39.
.—King of Sweden, of the Scylfing dynasty. Married, perhaps, Elan, daughter of Healfdene.—35 26; 41 16.
.—A Dane of Hnæf’s party.—18 24.
.—The forest near which Hæthcyn was slain.—40 31; 40 41.
.—Applied (1 4) to Scyld, and meaning ‘son of Scef.’

[xvii] .—Founder of the dynasty to which Hrothgar, his father, and grandfather belonged. He dies, and his body is put on a vessel, and set adrift. He goes from Daneland just as he had come to it—in a bark.—1 4; 1 19; 1 27.
.—The descendants of Scyld. They are also called Honor-Scyldings, Victory-Scyldings, War-Scyldings, etc. (See ‘Danes,’ above.)—2 1; 7 1; 8 1.
.—A Swedish royal line to which Wiglaf belonged.—36 2.
.—Son of Wæls, and uncle and father of Fitela. His struggle with a dragon is related in connection with Beowulf’s deeds of prowess.—14 38; 14 47.
.—Grandfather of Higelac, and father of Hrethel.—19 11.
.—People of Sweden, ruled by the Scylfings.—35 13.
.—Wife of Offa, king of the Angles. Known for her fierce and unwomanly disposition. She is introduced as a contrast to the gentle Hygd, queen of Higelac.—28 42; 28 56.
.—Son of Ecglaf, and seemingly a confidential courtier of Hrothgar. Taunts Beowulf for having taken part in the swimming-match. Lends Beowulf his sword when he goes to look for Grendel’s mother. In the MS. sometimes written . 9 1; 18 41.
.—Father of Sigemund.—14 60.
.—A name occasionally applied to Wiglaf and Beowulf, and perhaps derived from a common ancestor, Wægmund.—36 6; 38 61.
.—Another name for Geats or Wedergeats.
.—A fabulous smith mentioned in this poem and in other old Teutonic literature.—7 83.
.—The people of Wulfgar, Hrothgar’s messenger and retainer. (Perhaps = Vandals.)—6 30.
.—Wife of Hrothgar. Her queenly courtesy is well shown in the poem.—10 55.
, or .—A Wægmunding, and father of Wiglaf.—36 1.
.—A prominent promontory, on which Beowulf’s mound was built.—38 52; 42 76.
.—Son of Wihstan, and related to Beowulf. He remains faithful to Beowulf in the fatal struggle with the fire-drake. Would rather die than leave his lord in his dire emergency.—36 1; 36 3; 36 28.
.—Father of Wulf and Eofor.—41 20; 41 26.
.—Son of Wonred. Engaged in the battle between Higelac’s and Ongentheow’s forces, and had a hand-to-hand fight with Ongentheow himself. Ongentheow disables him, and is thereupon slain by Eofor.—41 19; 41 29.
.—Lord of the Wendels, and retainer of Hrothgar.—6 18; 6 30.
.—A people to whom belonged Heatholaf, who was slain by Ecgtheow.—8 6; 8 16.
.—Younger brother of Æschere, the hero whose death grieved Hrothgar so deeply.—21 4.

[xviii]## LIST OF WORDS AND PHRASES NOT IN GENERAL USE.

ATHELING.—Prince, nobleman.
BAIRN.—Son, child.
BARROW.—Mound, rounded hill, funeral-mound.
BATTLE-SARK.—Armor.
BEAKER.—Cup, drinking-vessel.
BEGEAR.—Prepare.
BIGHT.—Bay, sea.
BILL.—Sword.
BOSS.—Ornamental projection.
BRACTEATE.—A round ornament on a necklace.
BRAND.—Sword.
BURN.—Stream.
BURNIE.—Armor.
CARLE.—Man, hero.
EARL.—Nobleman, any brave man.
EKE.—Also.
EMPRISE.—Enterprise, undertaking.
ERST.—Formerly.
ERST-WORTHY.—Worthy for a long time past.
FAIN.—Glad.
FERRY.—Bear, carry.
FEY.—Fated, doomed.
FLOAT.—Vessel, ship.
FOIN.—To lunge (Shaks.).
GLORY OF KINGS.—God.
GREWSOME.—Cruel, fierce.
HEFT.—Handle, hilt; used by synecdoche for ‘sword.’
HELM.—Helmet, protector.
HENCHMAN.—Retainer, vassal.
HIGHT.—Am (was) named.
HOLM.—Ocean, curved surface of the sea.
HIMSEEMED.—(It) seemed to him.
LIEF.—Dear, valued.
MERE.—Sea; in compounds, ‘mere-ways,’ ‘mere-currents,’ etc.
MICKLE.—Much.
NATHLESS.—Nevertheless.
NAZE.—Edge (nose).
NESS.—Edge.
NICKER.—Sea-beast.
QUIT, QUITE.—Requite.
RATHE.—Quickly.
REAVE.—Bereave, deprive.
SAIL-ROAD.—Sea.
SETTLE.—Seat, bench.
SKINKER.—One who pours.
SOOTHLY.—Truly.
SWINGE.—Stroke, blow.
TARGE, TARGET.—Shield.
THROUGHLY.—Thoroughly.
TOLD.—Counted.
UNCANNY.—Ill-featured, grizzly.
UNNETHE.—Difficult.
WAR-SPEED.—Success in war.
WEB.—Tapestry (that which is ‘woven’).
WEEDED.—Clad (cf. widow’s weeds).
WEEN.—Suppose, imagine.
WEIRD.—Fate, Providence.
WHILOM.—At times, formerly, often.
WIELDER.—Ruler. Often used of God; also in compounds, as ‘Wielder of Glory,’ ‘Wielder of Worship.’
WIGHT.—Creature.
WOLD.—Plane, extended surface.
WOT.—Knows.
YOUNKER.—Youth.

[1]# BEOWULF.

I.

THE LIFE AND DEATH OF SCYLD.

The famous race of Spear-Danes.Scyld, their mighty king, in honor of whom they are often called Scyldings. He is the great-grandfather of Hrothgar, so prominent in the poem.510A son is born to him, who receives the name of Beowulf—a name afterwards made so famous by the hero of the poem.1512[2]The ideal Teutonic king lavishes gifts on his vassals.2025Scyld dies at the hour appointed by Fate.303By his own request, his body is laid on a vessel and wafted seaward.354045He leaves Daneland on the breast of a bark.[3]50No one knows whither the boat drifted.4[1]ÞætÞá[2]aldor-léasealdor-ceare[3]Áhtegewealdlændagaslange[4]séle-rædennesele-rædendeSele-rædendev. 50## II.

SCYLD’S SUCCESSORS.—HROTHGAR’S GREAT MEAD-HALL.

Beowulf succeeds his father Scyld5Healfdene’s birth.10He has three sons—one of them, Hrothgar—and a daughter named Elan. Hrothgar becomes a mighty king. 15He is eager to build a great hall in which he may feast his retainers20[4]25The hall is completed, and is called Heort, or Heorot.301The Monster Grendel is madly envious of the Danemen’s joy.35[The course of the story is interrupted by a short reference to some old account of the creation.]4045The glee of the warriors is overcast by a horrible dread.2503[5]55Cain is referred to as a progenitor of Grendel, and of monsters in general.60[1]ellor-gæstellen-gæst[2][3]## III.

GRENDEL THE MURDERER.

Grendel attacks the sleeping heroes51He drags off thirty of them, and devours them10A cry of agony goes up, when Grendel’s horrible deed is fully realized.15[6]The monster returns the next night.2025302King Hrothgar’s agony and suspense last twelve years.353404[7]Grendel is unremitting in his persecutions.4550God is against the monster.555The king and his council deliberate in vain.They invoke the aid of their gods.6065The true God they do not know.70[1]werasweraunhælounfælo[2][3]syððansárcwidum[4]SibbewoldeDeniga[5]Ne … wissedanach[8]## IV.

BEOWULF GOES TO HROTHGAR’S ASSISTANCE.

Hrothgar sees no way of escape from the persecutions of Grendel.5Beowulf, the Geat, hero of the poem, hears of Hrothgar’s sorrow, and resolves to go to his assistance.11015With fourteen carefully chosen companions, he sets out for Dane-land.2025[9]The vessel sails like a birdIn twenty four hours they reach the shores of Hrothgar’s dominions30:352They are hailed by the Danish coast guard4045His challenge503[10]55He is struck by Beowulf’s appearance.60465[1]From hám[2]Eoletes..;.eolet:.[3]…….,ichelmas bæronhringed stefnan.’brontne ceol.holmas.:..hringed stefnanline 51.[4]Seld-guma## V.

THE GEATS REACH HEOROT.

Beowulf courteously replies.We are Geats.My father Ecgtheow was well-known in his day.5Our intentions towards King Hrothgar are of the kindest.10[11]Is it true that a monster is slaying Danish heroes?1520I can help your king to free himself from this horrible creature.125The coast-guard reminds Beowulf that it is easier to say than to do.30I am satisfied of your good intentions, and shall lead you to the palace.35Your boat shall be well cared for during your stay here.40He again compliments Beowulf.[12]452The land is perhaps rolling.50Heorot flashes on their view.55The coast-guard, having discharged his duty, bids them God-speed.60[1]Edwendanedwendenbisiguedwenden[2]ferh-weardegúðmódgum men## VI.

BEOWULF INTRODUCES HIMSELF AT THE PALACE.

15They set their arms and armor against the wall.[13]10A Danish hero asks them whence and why they are come.15He expresses no little admiration for the strangers.20Beowulf replies.We are Higelac’s table-companions, and bear an important commission to your prince.2530Wulfgar, the thane, says that he will go and ask Hrothgar whether he will see the strangers.35240[14]He thereupon urges his liegelord to receive the visitors courteously.45Hrothgar, too, is struck with Beowulf’s appearance.50[1]scírhring-írengúð-byrne[2]unhár## VII.

HROTHGAR AND BEOWULF.

Hrothgar remembers Beowulf as a youth, and also remembers his father.5Beowulf is reported to have the strength of thirty men.110God hath sent him to our rescue.152[15]Wulfgar invites the strangers in.202530Beowulf salutes Hrothgar, and then proceeds to boast of his youthful achievements.354045His fight with the nickers.3[16]50He intends to fight Grendel unaided.5560Since the monster uses no weapons,65I, too, shall disdain to use any.Should he crush me, he will eat my companions as he has eaten thy thanes.7045[17]In case of my defeat, thou wilt not have the trouble of burying me.756Should I fall, send my armor to my lord, King Higelac.780Weird is supreme[1]gif-sceattasGéataGéatum[2][3]Þær ic (on) fífelgeban ýðde eotena cynfífelgebanoncynhámÞær ic fífelgeban ýðde, eotena hámcynhámÞær ic fífelgeband (cf. nhd. Bande) ýðde, eotena cyn[4]UnforhteetananforhteunforhteGeátena leóde[5][6]nimeð[7]feormeLíc## VIII.

HROTHGAR AND BEOWULF.—.

Hrothgar responds.1Reminiscences of Beowulf’s father, Ecgtheow.5[18]1015Hrothgar recounts to Beowulf the horrors of Grendel’s persecutions.20My thanes have made many boasts, but have not executed them.2530Sit down to the feast, and give us comfort.2A bench is made ready for Beowulf and his party.35[19]The gleeman sings40The heroes all rejoice together.[1]

This means: .—This gives coherence to Hrothgar’s opening remarks in VIII., and also introduces a new motive for Beowulf’s coming to Hrothgar’s aid.

[2]meotosige-hrèðsecgummeotoon sæl## IX.

UNFERTH TAUNTS BEOWULF.

Unferth, a thane of Hrothgar, is jealous of Beowulf, and undertakes to twit him.15Did you take part in a swimming-match with Breca?10’Twas mere folly that actuated you both to risk your lives on the ocean.1520[20]25Breca outdid you entirely.Much more will Grendel outdo you, if you vie with him in prowess.30Beowulf retaliates.O friend Unferth, you are fuddled with beer, and cannot talk coherently.35We simply kept an engagement made in early life.40He not excel me, and I not excel him.45After five days the currents separated us.50A horrible sea-beast attacked me, but I slew him.5560[1]síð[21]## X.

BEOWULF SILENCES UNFERTH.—GLEE IS HIGH.

My dear sword always served me faithfully.5I put a stop to the outrages of the sea-monsters.10Fortune helps the brave earl.15120After that escape I drifted to Finland.I have never heard of your doing any such bold deeds.25[22]You are a slayer of brothers, and will suffer damnation, wise as you may be.3035Had your acts been as brave as your words, Grendel had not ravaged your land so long.40The monster is not afraid of the Danes,but he will soon learn to dread the Geats.45On the second day, any warrior may go unmolested to the mead-banquet.50Hrothgar’s spirits are revived.The old king trusts Beowulf. The heroes are joyful.55Queen Wealhtheow plays the hostess.She offers the cup to her husband first.60[23]She gives presents to the heroes.65Then she offers the cup to Beowulf, thanking God that aid has come.70Beowulf states to the queen the object of his visit.75I determined to do or die.80Glee is high.85290Hrothgar retires, leaving Beowulf in charge of the hall.95[24]100[1]hwæðereswá Þærhwæðereswá Þær[2]## XI.

ALL SLEEP SAVE ONE.

Hrothgar retires.God has provided a watch for the hall.5Beowulf is self-confidentHe prepares for rest.1015Beowulf boasts of his ability to cope with Grendel.We will fight with nature’s weapons only.201[25]25God may decide who shall conquerThe Geatish warriors lie down.30They thought it very unlikely that they should ever see their homes again.35But God raised up a deliverer.God rules the world.40Grendel comes to Heorot.Only one warrior is awake.452[1]gódra[2]Þácóm[26]## XII.

GRENDEL AND BEOWULF.

Grendel comes from the fens.He goes towards the joyous building.5This was not his first visit there.101His horrid fingers tear the door open.15He strides furiously into the hall.20He exults over his supposed prey.Fate has decreed that he shall devour no more heroes. Beowulf suffers from suspense.25[27]30Grendel immediately seizes a sleeping warrior, and devours him.35Beowulf and Grendel grapple.40The monster is amazed at Beowulf’s strength.45He is anxious to flee.Beowulf recalls his boast of the evening, and determines to fulfil it.5055’Twas a luckless day for Grendel.The hall groans.602[28]6570Grendel’s cries terrify the Danes.7580[1][2]réðe rén-weardasréðe, rénhearde## XIII.

GRENDEL IS VANQUISHED.

Beowulf has no idea of letting Grendel live.5No weapon would harm Grendel; he bore a charmed life.10[29]15120Grendel is sorely wounded.His body bursts.2530The monster flees away to hide in the moors.3540Beowulf suspends Grendel’s hand and arm in Heorot.45[1]myrðemódes myrðe[30]## XIV.

REJOICING OF THE DANES.

At early dawn, warriors from far and near come together to hear of the night’s adventures.5Few warriors lamented Grendel’s destruction.10Grendel’s blood dyes the waters.11520Beowulf is the hero of the hour.He is regarded as a probable successor to Hrothgar.25But no word is uttered to derogate from the old king[31]302The gleeman sings the deeds of heroes.335He sings in alliterative measures of Beowulf’s prowess.Also of Sigemund, who has slain a great fire-dragon.40455055slaughtered[32]60Sigemund was widely famed.4Heremod, an unfortunate Danish king, is introduced by way of contrast.65Unlike Sigemund and Beowulf, Heremod was a burden to his people.7075Beowulf is an honor to his race.The story is resumed.8085[1]déopdéogwéol.déopdéogdéað-fæges[2][3]guma gilp-hladen[4]hé þæs áron þáhþáhsiððan[33]## XV.

HROTHGAR’S GRATITUDE.

1Hrothgar gives thanks for the overthrow of the monster.52I had given up all hope, when this brave liegeman came to our aid.10315If his mother yet liveth, well may she thank God for this son.20Hereafter, Beowulf, thou shalt be my son.25[34]Thou hast won immortal distinction.30Beowulf replies: I was most happy to render thee this service.3540I could not keep the monster from escaping, as God did not will that I should.45He left his hand and arm behind.50God will give him his deserts.55Unferth has nothing more to say, for Beowulf’s actions speak louder than words.60[35]No sword will harm the monster.65[1]staþole[2]láðesGrynnagyrn[3]gehwylcnewíd-scofen (hæfde)wéa## XVI.

HROTHGAR LAVISHES GIFTS UPON HIS DELIVERER.

Heorot is adorned with hands.15The hall is defaced, however.10[A vague passage of five verses.]215Hrothgar goes to the banquet.[36]2025Hrothgar’s nephew, Hrothulf, is present.Hrothgar lavishes gifts upon Beowulf.3035Four handsomer gifts were never presented.40Hrothgar commands that eight finely caparisoned steeds be brought to Beowulf.4550[37]55[1]hrodenhátengefrætwongefrætwodgefrætwod[2]gesacangearwe## XVII.

BANQUET ().—THE SCOP’S SONG OF FINN AND HNÆF.

Each of Beowulf’s companions receives a costly gift.The warrior killed by Grendel is to be paid for in gold.510Hrothgar’s scop recalls events in the reign of his lord’s father.15Hnæf, the Danish general, is treacherously attacked while staying at Finn’s castle.20Queen Hildeburg is not only wife of Finn, but a kinswoman of the murdered Hnæf.25[38]Finn’s force is almost exterminated.301Hengest succeeds Hnæf as Danish general.35Compact between the Frisians and the Danes.40Equality of gifts agreed on.4550No one shall refer to old grudges.55Danish warriors are burned on a funeral-pyre.60[39]Queen Hildeburg has her son burnt along with Hnæf.265370[1]wiht Hengeste wið gefeohtanwið Hengeste wiht gefeohtan[2]earme on eaxleeaxleon eaxeon bælearme ides on eaxle gnornode[3]gúð-rincgúð-réc## XVIII.

THE FINN EPISODE ().—THE BANQUET CONTINUES.

The survivors go to Friesland, the home of Finn.Hengest remains there all winter, unable to get away.51[40]10He devises schemes of vengeance.1520Guthlaf and Oslaf revenge Hnæf’s slaughter.252Finn is slain.The jewels of Finn, and his queen are carried away by the Danes.30The lay is concluded, and the main story is resumed.35Skinkers carry round the beaker.[41]Queen Wealhtheow greets Hrothgar, as he sits beside Hrothulf, his nephew.4045Be generous to the Geats.50Have as much joy as possible in thy hall, once more purified.55I know that Hrothulf will prove faithful if he survive thee.6065Beowulf is sitting by the two royal sons.[1]elne unflitmeelneeallesunflitmeelne unflitmeElneswíðeunflitmeflítan[2]roden## XIX.

BEOWULF RECEIVES FURTHER HONOR.

More gifts are offered Beowulf.[42]5A famous necklace is referred to, in comparison with the gems presented to Beowulf.11015220Queen Wealhtheow magnifies Beowulf’s achievements.2530[43]May gifts never fail thee.35340They little know of the sorrow in store for them.45A doomed thane is there with them.50They were always ready for battle.554[1][2]feorhfeoh[3][4]an (on) wíg gearweánwíg-gearweGearweon[44]## XX.

THE MOTHER OF GRENDEL.

15Grendel’s mother is known to be thirsting for revenge.10[Grendel’s progenitor, Cain, is again referred to.]15The poet again magnifies Beowulf’s valor.2025Grendel’s mother comes to avenge her son.[45]30235340She seizes a favorite liegemen of Hrothgar’s.4550Beowulf was asleep in another part of the palace.4[46]55Beowulf is sent for.60He comes at Hrothgar’s summons.65Beowulf inquires how Hrothgar had enjoyed his night’s rest.570[1]20 15[2]sónasáraedhwyrftedhwyrft[3]heard ecgsweord[4]under hróf genamunderunderunder[5]néod-laðunéad-láðum## XXI.

HROTHGAR’S ACCOUNT OF THE MONSTERS.

Hrothgar laments the death of Æschere, his shoulder-companion.5He was my ideal hero.10[47]This horrible creature came to avenge Grendel’s death.1152023I have heard my vassals speak of these two uncanny monsters who lived in the moors.253035The inhabit the most desolate and horrible places.404[48]45Even the hounded deer will not seek refuge in these uncanny regions.50To thee only can I look for assistance.5560[1]gefrægnodgefægnodæse wlanc[2][3]Sé Þesé Þeyldo[4]hrímgehríndehrínende## XXII.

BEOWULF SEEKS GRENDEL’S MOTHER.

Beowulf exhorts the old king to arouse himself for action.510[49]Hrothgar rouses himself. His horse is brought.15They start on the track of the female monster.20253035The sight of Æschere’s head causes them great sorrow.40The water is filled with serpents and sea-dragons.45One of them is killed by Beowulf.[50]50The dead beast is a poor swimmer55Beowulf prepares for a struggle with the monster.6065He has Unferth’s sword in his hand.7075Unferth has little use for swords.80[51]85## XXIII.

BEOWULF’S FIGHT WITH GRENDEL’S MOTHER.

Beowulf makes a parting speech to Hrothgar.If I fail, act as a kind liegelord to my thanes,5and send Higelac the jewels thou hast given me10I should like my king to know how generous a lord I found thee to be.151Beowulf is eager for the fray.20He is a whole day reaching the bottom of the sea.25[52]Grendel’s mother knows that some one has reached her domains.30She grabs him, and bears him to her den.35Sea-monsters bite and strike him.40Beowulf attacks the mother of Grendel.45The sword will not bite.5055The hero throws down all weapons, and again trusts to his hand-grip.60[53]265Beowulf falls.3The monster sits on him with drawn sword.70His armor saves his life.75God arranged for his escape.804[1]wæl-sweordheard-ecg20 39[2]feaxeeaxle[3]hand-léan[4].## XXIV.

BEOWULF IS DOUBLE-CONQUEROR.

Beowulf grasps a giant-sword,[54]510and fells the female monster.152025Beowulf sees the body of Grendel, and cuts off his head.30The waters are gory.35Beowulf is given up for dead.40[55]145The giant-sword melts.5055[56]2The hero swims back to the realms of day.606570753It takes four men to carry Grendel’s head on a spear.8085[57]90[1]Þæs monige gewearðhafað þæs gewordengeweorðanþætþætþæs The first passage (v. 1599 (b)-1600) I translate literally: .
The second passage (v. 2025 (b)-2027): . By emending ‘is’ instead of ‘wæs’ (2025), the tenses will be brought into perfect harmony.
In v. 1997 ff. this same idiom occurs, and was noticed in B.’s great article on Beowulf, which appeared about the time I published my reading of 1599 and 2027. Translate 1997 then: . Here ‘Súð-Dene’ is accus. of person, and ‘gúðe’ is gen. of thing agreed on.
With such collateral support as that afforded by B. (P. and B. XII. 97), I have no hesitation in departing from H.-So., my usual guide.
The idiom above treated runs through A.-S., Old Saxon, and other Teutonic languages, and should be noticed in the lexicons.

[2]Bróden-mæl25 16[3]Cyning-baldecyning-holdeCynebealde## XXV.

BEOWULF BRINGS HIS TROPHIES.—HROTHGAR’S GRATITUDE.

Beowulf relates his last exploit.510God was fighting with me.15120Heorot is freed from monsters.25[58]The famous sword is presented to Hrothgar.3035Hrothgar looks closely at the old sword.40It had belonged to a race hateful to God.45Hrothgar praises Beowulf.5055Heremod’s career is again contrasted with Beowulf’s.60[59]65A wretched failure of a king, to give no jewels to his retainers.70Hrothgar moralizes.75808590[60][1]24 57## XXVI.

HROTHGAR MORALIZES.—REST AFTER LABOR.

A wounded spirit.511015Be not over proud: life is fleeting, and its strength soon wasteth away.20Hrothgar gives an account of his reign.25[61]Sorrow after joy.30354045Beowulf is fagged, and seeks rest.50552The Geats prepare to leave Dane-land.603[62]Unferth asks Beowulf to accept his sword as a gift. Beowulf thanks him.6570[1]gyldgylp[2][3]## XXVII.

SORROW AT PARTING.

Beowulf’s farewell.5I shall be ever ready to aid thee.10My liegelord will encourage me in aiding thee.15[63]2025O Beowulf, thou art wise beyond thy years.30Should Higelac die, the Geats could find no better successor than thou wouldst make.35Thou hast healed the ancient breach between our races.40451Parting gifts50[64]Hrothgar kisses Beowulf, and weeps.55260The old king is deeply grieved to part with his benefactor.65Giving liberally is the true proof of kingship.70[1]geworhtegeþóhte[2]## XXVIII.

THE HOMEWARD JOURNEY.—THE TWO QUEENS.

The coast-guard again.51[65]10Beowulf gives the guard a handsome sword.21520The Geats see their own land again.The port-warden is anxiously looking for them.25330[66]435Hygd, the noble queen of Higelac, lavish of gifts.40Offa’s consort, Thrytho, is contrasted with Hygd.5She is a terror to all save her husband.456505560[67]6570[1]scawanscaðan[2]Gewát him on nacaOnon hafunaca[3]léofra manna[4]wunaðwunade[5]frécnu[6]an dægesand-égesán-dæges## XXIX.

BEOWULF AND HIGELAC.

Beowulf and his party seek Higelac.510Beowulf sits by his liegelord.15Queen Hygd receives the heroes.1[68]20Higelac is greatly interested in Beowulf’s adventures.25Give an account of thy adventures, Beowulf dear.30My suspense has been great.235Beowulf narrates his adventures.40Grendel’s kindred have no cause to boast.453Hrothgar received me very cordially.50[69]The queen also showed up no little honor.55Hrothgar’s lovely daughter.60She is betrothed to Ingeld, in order to unite the Danes and Heathobards.4655[1]Meodu-scencum[2]1599[3]fennefácne[4]v. 1599[5]nóSeldanLéod-hryreBúgeðHwærwæreoftOft seldan wæreléodhryrelýtle hwíle bongár búgeð, þéah séo brýd duge## XXX.

BEOWULF NARRATES HIS ADVENTURES TO HIGELAC.

[70]510Ingeld is stirred up to break the truce.15202530135[71]Having made these preliminary statements, I will now tell thee of Grendel, the monster.40Hondscio fell first45505560I reflected honor upon my people.65King Hrothgar lavished gifts upon me.70[72]75The old king is sad over the loss of his youthful vigor.80Grendel’s mother.85Æschere falls a prey to her vengeance.90She suffered not his body to be burned, but ate it.2953100I sought the creature in her den,[73]and hewed her head off.105Jewels were freely bestowed upon me.[1]lifigendewígende[2]fæðmumfærunga[3]þíne lýfe## XXXI.

GIFT-GIVING IS MUTUAL.

All my gifts I lay at thy feet.51210This armor I have belonged of yore to Heregar.315[74]20Higelac loves his nephew Beowulf.25Beowulf gives Hygd the necklace that Wealhtheow had given him.30Beowulf is famous.3540He is requited for the slights suffered in earlier days.45Higelac overwhelms the conqueror with gifts.50[75]55After Heardred’s death, Beowulf becomes king.60He rules the Geats fifty years.The fire-drake.6570[1][2]eaforealdoreaforhéafodsegn[3]æresteftestésteftre## XXXII.

THE HOARD AND THE DRAGON.

5[76]The hoard.10152012253The ring-giver bewails the loss of retainers.3035[77]4045The fire-dragon50455The dragon meets his match.605The hero plunders the dragon’s den65[78]707567The dragon perceives that some one has disturbed his treasure.8085The dragon is infuriated.[1]long-gestréonaláengestréonalong-gestréona’[2]hard-fyrdnehard-fyndnehord-wynne dæl[3]fec-word.[4][5]hordhord[6][7]Sinc-fæt## XXXIII.

BRAVE THOUGH AGED.—REMINISCENCES.

The dragon spits fire.[79]510Beowulf hears of the havoc wrought by the dragon.115He fears that Heaven is punishing him for some crime.2025He orders an iron shield to be made from him, wood is useless.30He determines to fight alone.35[80]Beowulf’s early triumphs referred to402Higelac’s death recalled.455055Heardred’s lack of capacity to rule.60Beowulf’s tact and delicacy recalled.65Reference is here made to a visit which Beowulf receives from Eanmund and Eadgils, why they come is not known.70[81]375[1]Hám[2]láðan cynnesláðan cynnemægum[3]on feorme## XXXIV.

BEOWULF SEEKS THE DRAGON.—BEOWULF’S REMINISCENCES.

5Beowulf has been preserved through many perils.10With eleven comrades, he seeks the dragon.15A guide leads the way, butvery reluctantly.20[82]2530Beowulf’s retrospect.35Hrethel took me when I was seven.40He treated me as a son.45One of the brothers accidentally kills another.No fee could compound for such a calamity.50[A parallel case is supposed.]1[83]556065[1]Gomelum ceorle Hrethrel had certainly never seen a son of his ride on the gallows to feed the crows.
The passage beginning ‘swá bið géomorlic’ seems to be an effort to reach a full simile, ‘as … so.’ ‘As it is mournful for an old man, etc. … so the defence of the Weders (2463) bore heart-sorrow, etc.’ The verses 2451 to 2463½ would be parenthetical, the poet’s feelings being so strong as to interrupt the simile. The punctuation of the fourth edition would be better—a comma after ‘galgan’ (2447). The translation may be indicated as follows:

XXXV.

REMINISCENCES ().—BEOWULF’S LAST BATTLE.

Hrethel grieves for Herebald.5[84]10Strife between Swedes and Geats.1520Hæthcyn’s fall at Ravenswood.25I requited him for the jewels he gave me.3035Beowulf refers to his having slain Dæghrefn.40[85]45He boasts of his youthful prowess, and declares himself still fearless.5055His last salutations.1602Let Fate decide between us.65Wait ye here till the battle is over.70[86]7580The place of strife is described.8590Beowulf calls out under the stone arches.The terrible encounter.95Beowulf brandishes his sword,1003and stands against his shield.The dragon coils himself.[87]105110115The dragon ragesBeowulf’s sword fails him.120125The combat is renewed.The great hero is reduced to extremities.130His comrades flee!Blood is thicker than water.135[88][1]wiðgrípan[2][3]unsláwungléawsweordgúð-cyning## XXXVI.

WIGLAF THE TRUSTY.—BEOWULF IS DESERTED BY FRIENDS

AND BY SWORD. Wiglaf remains true—the ideal Teutonic liegeman.5Wiglaf recalls Beowulf’s generosity.101520This is Wiglaf’s first battle as liegeman of Beowulf.25Wiglaf appeals to the pride of the cowards.30[89]How we have forfeited our liegelord’s confidence!3540Our lord is in sore need of us.45I would rather die than go home with out my suzerain.50Surely he does not deserve to die alone.551Wiglaf reminds Beowulf of his youthful boasts.60[90]The monster advances on them.6570Beowulf strikes at the dragon.75drivenHis sword fails him.802The dragon advances on Beowulf again.85[1]ÚrumByrdu-scrúdbýwdu-scrúdbámbéon[2]ÞonneÞone[91]## XXXVII.

THE FATAL STRUGGLE.—BEOWULF’S LAST MOMENTS.

Wiglaf defends Beowulf.152Beowulf draws his knife,10and cuts the dragon.315[92]Beowulf’s wound swells and burns.20He sits down exhausted.25Wiglaf bathes his lord’s head.3035Beowulf regrets that he has no son.40I can rejoice in a well-spent life.45Bring me the hoard, Wiglaf, that my dying eyes may be refreshed by a sight of it.50[93]55[1][2]Þæt þæt fýrþá þæt fýr[3]gefyldangefyldeellene(a)llneferh-ellen wræc## XXXVIII.

WIGLAF PLUNDERS THE DRAGON’S DEN.—BEOWULF’S

DEATH. Wiglaf fulfils his lord’s behest.5The dragon’s den.10115The dragon is not there.20[94]Wiglaf bears the hoard away.252303540Beowulf is rejoiced to see the jewels.45He desires to be held in memory by his people.50[95]55The hero’s last giftand last words.6065[1]oferhígianoferhígianhordgehwoneoferhígian28 13[2]Ær gescód## XXXIX.

THE DEAD FOES.—WIGLAF’S BITTER TAUNTS.

Wiglaf is sorely grieved to see his lord look so un-warlike.5The dragon has plundered his last hoard.10[96]Few warriors dared to face the monster.1520The cowardly thanes come out of the thicket.25They are ashamed of their desertion.30351Wiglaf is ready to excoriate them.40He begins to taunt them.45[97]Surely our lord wasted his armor on poltroons.250He, however, got along without youWith some aid, I could have saved our liegelord55Gift-giving is over with your people: the ring-lord is dead.6065What is life without honor?[1]dædum rædandéað árædan[2]þá … begetþorfteforwurpe## XL.

THE MESSENGER OF DEATH.

Wiglaf sends the news of Beowulf’s death to liegemen near by.5[98]The messenger speaks.10Wiglaf sits by our dead lord.151Our lord’s death will lead to attacks from our old foes.20Higelac’s death recalled.2530Hæthcyn’s fall referred to.35[99]404550[1]Hige-méðumhige-méðe## XLI.

THE MESSENGER’S RETROSPECT.

The messenger continues, and refers to the feuds of Swedes and Geats.15102[100]15Wulf wounds Ongentheow.20Ongentheow gives a stout blow in return.2530Eofor smites Ongentheow fiercely.35Ongentheow is slain.40Eofor takes the old king’s war-gear to Higelac.45Higelac rewards the brothers.[101]50His gifts were beyond cavil.3To Eofor he also gives his only daughter in marriage.55604It is time for us to pay the last marks of respect to our lord.657075[102]8085The warriors go sadly to look at Beowulf’s lifeless body.90They also see the dragon.955100105The hoard was under a magic spell.[103]110God alone could give access to it.6[1]gódagomela[2]segn Higelácesegn Higelácessæcc Higeláces[3][4]ScyldingasScyldingasScylfingas[5]nihteshwílum[6]## XLII.

WIGLAF’S SAD STORY.—THE HOARD CARRIED OFF.

15210[104]1534Wiglaf addresses his comrades.2025530He tells them of Beowulf’s last moments.35Beowulf’s dying request.40[105]4550Wiglaf charges them to build a funeral-pyre.655760He takes seven thanes, and enters the den.6570They push the dragon over the wall.[106]The hoard is laid on a wain.75[1]gehýddegehýðde[2]Wundur … búanhwárwundurwundor[3]strude[4][5][6]Folc-ágendegódum[7]weaxanvescorfretan## XLIII.

THE BURNING OF BEOWULF.

Beowulf’s pyre.5The funeral-flame.101520The Weders carry out their lord’s last request.25[107]Rings and gems are laid in the barrow.30They mourn for their lord, and sing his praises.3540An ideal king.45[109]## ADDENDA.

Several discrepancies and other oversights have been noticed in the H.-So. glossary. Of these a good part were avoided by Harrison and Sharp, the American editors of Beowulf, in their last edition, 1888. The rest will, I hope, be noticed in their fourth edition. As, however, this book may fall into the hands of some who have no copy of the American edition, it seems best to notice all the principal oversights of the German editors.
(194).—Notes and glossary conflict; the latter not having been altered to suit the conclusions accepted in the former.
(440).—Under ‘dóm’ H. says ‘the might of the Lord’; while under ‘gelýfan’ he says ‘the judgment of the Lord.’
(486).—Under ‘benc-þelu’ H. says ; while under ‘eal’ he says
(519).—Under ‘ætberan’ H. translates ‘to the Heathoremes’; while under ‘Heatho-ræmas’ he says ‘Heathoræmas reaches Breca in the swimming-match with Beowulf.’ Harrison and Sharp (3d edition, 1888) avoid the discrepancy.
(554).—Under ‘féond-scaða’ H. says ‘a gleaming sea-monster’; under ‘fáh’ he says ‘hostile.’
(749).—Under ‘onfón’ H. says ‘he the maliciously-disposed one’; under ‘inwit-þanc’ he says ‘he ,’ etc.
(1366).—Under ‘níð-wundor’ H. calls this word itself ; under ‘séon’ he translates it as accus. sing., understanding ‘man’ as subject of ‘séon.’ H. and S. (3d edition) make the correction.
(1521).—H., under the second word, calls it instr. dat.; while under ‘forgifan’ he makes it the dat. of indir. obj. H. and S. (3d edition) make the change.
and (1547).—Under ‘brád’ H. says ‘das breite Hüftmesser mit bronzener Klinge’; under ‘brún-ecg’ he says ‘ihr breites Hüftmesser mit blitzender Klinge.’

[110] (1557).—Under this word H. makes it modify ‘ástód.’ If this be right, the punctuation of the fifth edition is wrong. See H. and S., appendix.
(1840).—Under ‘sél’ and ‘gesécan’ H. calls these two words accus. plu.; but this is clearly an error, as both are nom. plu., pred. nom. H. and S. correct under ‘sél.’
(1978).—Under ‘wið’ and ‘gesittan’ H. says ‘wið = near, by’; under ‘self’ he says ‘opposite.’
(2225) is omitted from the glossary.
(2502).—Under ‘duguð’ H. translates this phrase, ‘in Tüchtigkeit’; under ‘for,’ by ‘vor der edlen Kriegerschaar.’
(2574).—Under ‘wealdan’ H. translates by ‘wo’; under ‘mótan,’ by ‘da.’ H. and S. suggest ‘if’ in both passages.
(2726).—Under ‘wund’ H. says ‘dative,’ and under ‘wæl-bléate’ he says ‘accus.’ It is without doubt accus., parallel with ‘benne.’
(3118).—Under ‘strengo’ H. says ‘Strengum’ = mit Macht; under ‘gebæded’ he translates ‘von den Sehnen.’ H. and S. correct this discrepancy by rejecting the second reading.
(3162).—A recent emendation. The fourth edition had ‘bronda betost.’ In the fifth edition the editor neglects to change the glossary to suit the new emendation. See ‘bewyrcan.’


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