{"id":672,"date":"2019-02-25T18:42:07","date_gmt":"2019-02-25T18:42:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/epcc-britlit1\/?post_type=chapter&p=672"},"modified":"2019-07-22T15:11:59","modified_gmt":"2019-07-22T15:11:59","slug":"beowulf-poetic-translation-by-leslie-hall","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/epcc-britlit1\/chapter\/beowulf-poetic-translation-by-leslie-hall\/","title":{"raw":"Notes on Beowulf from Translation by Lesslie Hall","rendered":"Notes on Beowulf from Translation by Lesslie Hall"},"content":{"raw":"
BEOWULF<\/span>\r\n<\/pre>\r\n
\r\n
AN ANGLO-SAXON EPIC POEM<\/div>\r\n
TRANSLATED\r\nBY<\/div>\r\n
\r\n
LESSLIE HALL, Ph. D.<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
Professor of English and History in The College of William and Mary<\/div>\r\n
1892<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • The Story<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Glossary of Proper Names<\/li>\r\n \t
  • List of Words and Phrases not in General Use<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
    The Story<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n
    \r\n
    \r\n\r\nHrothgar, king of the Danes, or Scyldings, builds a great mead-hall, or palace, in which he hopes to feast his liegemen and to give them presents. The joy of king and retainers is, however, of short duration. Grendel, a monster descended from Cain, is seized with hateful jealousy. He cannot brook the sounds of enjoyment and camaraderie that reach him down in his fen-dwelling near the hall. Oft and anon he goes to the joyous building, bent on direful mischief. Thane after thane is ruthlessly carried off and devoured, while no one is found strong enough and bold enough to cope with the monster. For twelve years he terrorizes Hrothgar and his vassals.<\/i><\/span>\r\n\r\nOver sea, a day\u2019s voyage off, Beowulf, of the Geats, nephew of Higelac, king of the Geats, hears of Grendel\u2019s doings and of Hrothgar\u2019s misery. He resolves to crush the cruel monster and relieve the aged king. With fourteen chosen companions, he sets sail for Dane-land. Reaching that country, he soon persuades Hrothgar of his ability to help him. The hours that elapse before night are spent in beer-drinking and conversation. When Hrothgar\u2019s bedtime comes he leaves the hall in charge of Beowulf, telling him that never before has he given to another the absolute wardship of his palace. All retire to rest, Beowulf, as it were, sleeping upon his arms.<\/i><\/span>\r\n\r\nGrendel comes, the great march-stepper, driven by envious anger. He seizes and kills one of the sleeping warriors. Then he advances towards Beowulf. A fierce and desperate hand-to-hand struggle ensues. No arms are used, both combatants trusting to strength and hand-grip. Beowulf tears Grendel\u2019s shoulder from its socket, and the monster retreats to his den, howling and yelling with agony and fury. The wound is fatal.<\/i><\/span>\r\n\r\nThe next morning, at early dawn, warriors in numbers flock to the hall Heorot, to hear the news. Joy is boundless. Glee runs high. Hrothgar and his retainers are lavish of gratitude and of gifts.<\/i><\/span>\r\n\r\nGrendel\u2019s mother, however, comes the next night to avenge his death. She is furious and raging. While Beowulf is sleeping in a room somewhat apart\u00a0from the quarters of the other warriors, she seizes one of Hrothgar\u2019s favorite counselors, and carries him off and devours him. Beowulf is called. Determined to leave Heorot entirely purified, he arms himself, and goes down to look for the female monster. After traveling through the waters many hours, he meets her near the sea-bottom. She drags him to her den. There he sees Grendel lying dead. After a desperate and almost fatal struggle with the woman, he slays her, and swims upward in triumph, taking with him Grendel\u2019s head.<\/i><\/span>\r\n\r\nJoy is renewed at Heorot. Congratulations crowd upon the victor. Hrothgar literally pours treasures into the lap of Beowulf; and it is agreed among the vassals of the king that Beowulf has all of qualities of a good liegelord.<\/i><\/span>\r\n\r\nBeowulf leaves Dane-land. Hrothgar weeps and laments at his departure.<\/i><\/span>\r\n\r\nWhen the hero arrives in his own land, Higelac treats him as a distinguished guest. He is the hero of the hour.<\/i><\/span>\r\n\r\nBeowulf subsequently becomes king of his own people, the Geats. After he has been ruling for fifty years, his own neighborhood is woefully terrorized by a fire-spewing dragon. Beowulf determines to kill him. In the ensuing struggle both Beowulf and the dragon are slain. The grief of the Geats is inexpressible. They determine, however, to leave nothing undone to honor the memory of their lord. A great funeral-pyre is built, and his body is burnt. Then a memorial-barrow is made, visible from a great distance, that sailors afar may be constantly reminded of the prowess of the national hero of Geatland.<\/i><\/span>\r\n\r\nThe poem closes with a glowing tribute to his bravery, his gentleness, his goodness of heart, and his generosity.<\/i><\/span>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n
    \r\n\r\n
    \r\n\r\nIt 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.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
    \r\n\r\n
    \r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n
    GLOSSARY OF PROPER NAMES\u00a0<\/strong><\/div>\r\n
    Most important names are highlighted.<\/span><\/div>\r\n
    \r\n\r\n\u00c6schere<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Confidential friend of King Hrothgar. Killed by Grendel's mother to avenge death of Grendel.\r\n\r\nBeowulf<\/b><\/span>.\u2014The 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.\r\n\r\nBreca<\/b>.\u2014Beowulf\u2019s opponent in the famous swimming-match.\r\n\r\nCain<\/b>.\u2014Progenitor of Grendel and other monsters.\r\n\r\nDanes<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Subjects 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.\r\n\r\nEcglaf<\/b>.\u2014Father of Unferth, who taunts Beowulf.\r\n\r\nEcgtheow<\/b>.\u2014Father of Beowulf, the hero of the poem. A widely-known W\u00e6gmunding warrior. Marries Hrethel\u2019s daughter. After slaying Heatholaf, a Wylfing, he flees his country.\r\n\r\nEagle Cape<\/b>.\u2014A promontory in Geat-land, under which took place Beowulf\u2019s last encounter.\r\n\r\nFinn<\/b>.\u2014King of the North-Frisians and the Jutes. Marries Hildeburg. At his court takes place the horrible slaughter in which the Danish general, Hn\u00e6f, fell. Later on, Finn himself is slain by Danish warriors.\r\n\r\nFin-land<\/b>.\u2014The country to which Beowulf was driven by the currents in his swimming-match.\r\n\r\nFranks<\/b>.\u2014Introduced occasionally in referring to the death of Higelac.\r\n\r\nFrisians<\/b>.\u2014A part of them are ruled by Finn. Some of them were engaged in the struggle in which Higelac was slain.\r\n\r\nFreaware<\/b>.\u2014Daughter of King Hrothgar. Married to Ingeld, a Heathobard prince.\r\n\r\nFroda<\/b>.\u2014King of the Heathobards, and father of Ingeld.\r\n\r\nGeats, Geatmen<\/b><\/span>.\u2014The race to which the hero of the poem belongs. Also called Weder-Geats, or Weders, War-Geats, Sea-Geats. They are ruled by Hrethel, H\u00e6thcyn, Higelac, and Beowulf.\r\n\r\nGrendel<\/b><\/span>.\u2014A monster of the race of Cain. Dwells in the fens and moors. Is furiously envious when he hears sounds of joy in Hrothgar\u2019s 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\u2019s hall Heorot. His head is cut off by Beowulf when he goes down to fight with Grendel\u2019s mother.\r\n\r\nHalf-Danes<\/b>.\u2014Branch of the Danes to which Hn\u00e6f belonged.\r\n\r\nHalga<\/b>.\u2014Surnamed the Good. Younger brother of Hrothgar.\r\n\r\nH\u00e6thcyn<\/b>.\u2014Son of Hrethel and brother of Higelac. Kills his brother Herebeald accidentally. Is slain at Ravenswood, fighting against Ongentheow.\r\n\r\nHerebeald<\/b>.\u2014Eldest son of Hrethel, the Geatish king, and brother of Higelac. Killed by his younger brother H\u00e6thcyn.\r\n\r\nHeremod<\/b>.\u2014A Danish king of a dynasty before the Scylding line. Was a source of great sorrow to his people.\r\n\r\nHealfdene<\/b>.\u2014Grandson of Scyld and father of Hrothgar. Ruled the Danes long and well.\r\n\r\nHeardred<\/b>.\u2014Son of Higelac and Hygd, king and queen of the Geats. Succeeds his father, with Beowulf as regent. Is slain by the sons of Ohthere.\r\n\r\nHeathobards<\/b>.\u2014Race of Lombards, of which Froda is king. After Froda falls in battle with the Danes, Ingeld, his son, marries Hrothgar\u2019s daughter, Freaware, in order to heal the feud.\r\n\r\nHeort<\/b>, Heorot<\/b><\/span>.\u2014The 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.\u00a0 A hart is a deer.\r\n\r\nHn\u00e6f<\/b>.\u2014Leader of a branch of the Danes called Half-Danes. Killed in the struggle at Finn\u2019s castle.\r\n\r\nHondscio<\/b>.\u2014One of Beowulf\u2019s companions. Killed by Grendel just before Beowulf grappled with that monster.\r\n\r\nHrethel<\/b>.\u2014King of the Geats, father of Higelac, and grandfather of Beowulf.\r\n\r\nHrethric<\/b>.\u2014Son of Hrothgar.\r\n\r\nHrothgar<\/b><\/span>.\u2014The Danish king who built the hall Heort, but was long unable to enjoy it on account of Grendel\u2019s 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.\r\n\r\nHrothmund<\/b>.\u2014Son of Hrothgar.\r\n\r\nHrothulf<\/b>.\u2014Probably a son of Halga, younger brother of Hrothgar. Certainly on terms of close intimacy in Hrothgar\u2019s palace.\r\n\r\nHrunting<\/b>.\u2014Unferth\u2019s sword, lent to Beowulf.\r\n\r\nHygelac<\/b>, Higelac<\/b><\/span>.\u2014King of the Geats, uncle and liegelord of Beowulf, the hero of the poem.\u2014His second wife is the lovely Hygd, daughter of H\u00e6reth. 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.\r\n\r\nHygd<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Wife of Higelac, and daughter of H\u00e6reth. There are some indications that she married Beowulf after she became a widow.\r\n\r\nIngeld<\/b>.\u2014Son of the Heathobard king, Froda. Marries Hrothgar\u2019s daughter, Freaware, in order to reconcile the two peoples.\r\n\r\nIngwins<\/b>.\u2014Another name for the Danes.\r\n\r\nJutes<\/b>.\u2014Name sometimes applied to Finn\u2019s people.\r\n\r\nN\u00e6gling<\/b>.\u2014Beowulf\u2019s sword.\r\n\r\nOffa<\/b>.\u2014King of the Angles, and son of Garmund. Marries the terrible Thrytho who is so strongly contrasted with Hygd.\r\n\r\nOhthere<\/b>.\u2014Son of Ongentheow, king of the Swedes. He is father of Eanmund and Eadgils.\r\n\r\nOnela<\/b>.\u2014Brother of Ohthere.\r\n\r\nOngentheow<\/b>.\u2014King of Sweden, of the Scylfing dynasty. Married, perhaps, Elan, daughter of Healfdene.\r\n\r\nRavenswood<\/b>.\u2014The forest near which H\u00e6thcyn was slain.\r\n\r\nScyld<\/b>.\u2014Founder 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\u2014in a bark.\r\n\r\nScyldings<\/b>.\u2014The descendants of Scyld. They are also called Honor-Scyldings, Victory-Scyldings, War-Scyldings, etc. (See \u2018Danes,\u2019 above.)\r\n\r\nScylfings<\/b>.\u2014A Swedish royal line to which Wiglaf belonged.\r\n\r\nSigemund<\/b>.\u2014Son of W\u00e6ls, and uncle and father of Fitela. His struggle with a dragon is related in connection with Beowulf\u2019s deeds of prowess.\r\n\r\nSwedes<\/b>.\u2014People of Sweden, ruled by the Scylfings.\r\n\r\nThrytho<\/b>.\u2014Wife 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.\r\n\r\nUnferth<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Son 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\u2019s mother.\r\n\r\nWeders<\/b>.\u2014Another name for Geats or Wedergeats.\r\n\r\nWayland<\/b>.\u2014A fabulous smith mentioned in this poem and in other old Teutonic literature.\r\n\r\nWulfgar --<\/strong>\u00a0Hrothgar\u2019s messenger and retainer. (Perhaps = Vandals.)\r\n\r\nWealhtheow<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Wife of Hrothgar. Her queenly courtesy is well shown in the poem.\r\n\r\nWeohstan<\/b>, or Wihstan<\/b>.\u2014A W\u00e6gmunding, and father of Wiglaf.\r\n\r\nWhale\u2019s Ness<\/b>.\u2014A prominent promontory, on which Beowulf\u2019s mound was built.\r\n\r\nWiglaf<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Son 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.\r\n\r\nWulf<\/b>.\u2014Son of Wonred. Engaged in the battle between Higelac\u2019s and Ongentheow\u2019s forces, and had a hand-to-hand fight with Ongentheow himself. Ongentheow disables him, and is thereupon slain by Eofor.\r\n\r\nWulfgar<\/b>.\u2014Lord of the Wendels, and retainer of Hrothgar.\r\n\r\nWylfings<\/b>.\u2014A people to whom belonged Heatholaf, who was slain by Ecgtheow.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n
    \r\n\r\nLIST OF WORDS NOT IN GENERAL USE<\/strong>\r\n\r\n[Highlighted items are also used by Chaucer and Shakespeare.]<\/span>\r\n\r\nATHELING.\u2014Prince, nobleman.\r\n\r\nBAIRN.\u2014Son, child.<\/span>\r\n\r\nBARK.---Ship or boat<\/span>\r\n\r\nBARROW.\u2014Mound, rounded hill, funeral-mound.\r\n\r\nBATTLE-SARK.\u2014Armor.\r\n\r\nBEAKER.\u2014Cup, drinking-vessel.\r\n\r\nBEGEAR.\u2014Prepare.\r\n\r\nBIGHT.\u2014Bay, sea.\r\n\r\nBILL.\u2014Sword.\r\n\r\nBOSS.\u2014Ornamental projection.\r\n\r\nBRACTEATE.\u2014A round ornament on a necklace.\r\n\r\nBRAND.\u2014Sword.\r\n\r\nBURN.\u2014Stream.\r\n\r\nBURNIE.\u2014Armor.\r\n\r\nCARLE.\u2014Man, hero.<\/span>\r\n\r\nEARL.\u2014Nobleman, any brave man.\r\n\r\nEKE.\u2014Also.<\/span>\r\n\r\nEMPRISE.\u2014Enterprise, undertaking.\r\n\r\nERE<\/span>.---Before\r\n\r\nERST.\u2014Formerly.<\/span>\r\n\r\nERST-WORTHY.\u2014Worthy for a long time past.\r\n\r\nFAIN.\u2014Glad.<\/span>\r\n\r\nFERRY.\u2014Bear, carry.\r\n\r\nFEY.\u2014Fated, doomed.\r\n\r\nFLOAT.\u2014Vessel, ship.\r\n\r\nFOIN.\u2014To\u00a0lunge.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nGLEEMAN.---Bard, scop, storyteller.\r\n\r\nGLORY OF KINGS.\u2014God.\r\n\r\nGRUESOME.\u2014Cruel, fierce.\r\n\r\nHEFT.\u2014Handle, hilt; used by synecdoche for \u2018sword.\u2019\r\n\r\nHELM.\u2014Helmet, protector.\r\n\r\nHENCHMAN.\u2014Retainer, vassal, horseman.<\/span>\r\n\r\nHIGHT.\u2014Am (was) named.\r\n\r\nHOLM.\u2014Ocean, curved surface of the sea.\r\n\r\nHIMSEEMED.\u2014(It) seemed to him.\r\n\r\nLIEF.\u2014Dear, valued. \"would as lief\" or \"liefer\" = would rather<\/span>\r\n\r\nMERE.\u2014Sea; in compounds, \u2018mere-ways,\u2019 \u2018mere-currents,\u2019 etc.\r\n\r\nMICKLE.\u2014Much.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNATHLESS.\u2014Nevertheless.\r\n\r\nNAZE.\u2014Edge (nose).\r\n\r\nNESS.\u2014Edge.\r\n\r\nNICKER.\u2014Sea-beast.\r\n\r\nQUIT, QUITE.\u2014Requite.\r\n\r\nRATHE.\u2014Quickly.\r\n\r\nREAVE.\u2014Bereave, deprive.\r\n\r\nRECK<\/span>.---Care.\u00a0 \u00a0\"reckless\" means without care<\/em>.\r\n\r\nSAIL-ROAD.\u2014Sea.\r\n\r\nSETTLE.\u2014Seat, bench.\r\n\r\nSKINKER.\u2014One who pours.\r\n\r\nSOOTHLY.\u2014Truly.<\/span>\r\n\r\nSWINGE.\u2014Stroke, blow.\r\n\r\nTHANE.<\/span>---Knight, liegeman, a man who pledges allegiance to a king\r\n\r\nTARGE, TARGET.<\/span>\u2014Shield.\u00a0 The diminutive form target\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>later became word to refer to object aimed at.\r\n\r\nTHROUGHLY.\u2014Thoroughly.\r\n\r\nTOLD.\u2014Counted.<\/span>\r\n\r\nUNCANNY.\u2014Ill-featured, grizzly.\r\n\r\nUNNETHE.\u2014Difficult.\r\n\r\nWAR-SPEED.\u2014Success in war.\r\n\r\nWEB.\u2014Tapestry (that which is \u2018woven\u2019).\r\n\r\nWEEDS.\u2014Clothing (cf. widow\u2019s weeds).<\/span>\r\n\r\nWEEN.\u2014Suppose, imagine.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWEIRD.\u2014Fate, Providence<\/span>.\r\n\r\nWHILOM.\u2014At times, formerly, often.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWIELDER.\u2014Ruler. Often used of God; also in compounds, as \u2018Wielder of Glory,\u2019 \u2018Wielder of Worship.\u2019\r\n\r\nWIGHT.\u2014Creature.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWIST.---Know\r\n\r\nWOLD.\u2014Plane, extended surface.\r\n\r\nWOT.\u2014Knows<\/span>.<\/span>\r\n\r\nYOUNKER.\u2014Youth.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n
    \r\n\r\n \r\n
    \r\n
    <\/h2>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
    \r\n\r\nThis eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with<\/span>almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or\u00a0<\/span>re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included\u00a0<\/span>with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.net<\/span>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n
    <\/pre>","rendered":"
    BEOWULF<\/span>\r\n<\/pre>\n
    \n
    AN ANGLO-SAXON EPIC POEM<\/div>\n
    TRANSLATED
    \nBY<\/div>\n
    \n
    LESSLIE HALL, Ph. D.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Professor of English and History in The College of William and Mary<\/div>\n
    1892<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
      \n
    • The Story<\/li>\n
    • Glossary of Proper Names<\/li>\n
    • List of Words and Phrases not in General Use<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
      The Story<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n
      \n
      \n
      Hrothgar, king of the Danes, or Scyldings, builds a great mead-hall, or palace, in which he hopes to feast his liegemen and to give them presents. The joy of king and retainers is, however, of short duration. Grendel, a monster descended from Cain, is seized with hateful jealousy. He cannot brook the sounds of enjoyment and camaraderie that reach him down in his fen-dwelling near the hall. Oft and anon he goes to the joyous building, bent on direful mischief. Thane after thane is ruthlessly carried off and devoured, while no one is found strong enough and bold enough to cope with the monster. For twelve years he terrorizes Hrothgar and his vassals.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n
      Over sea, a day\u2019s voyage off, Beowulf, of the Geats, nephew of Higelac, king of the Geats, hears of Grendel\u2019s doings and of Hrothgar\u2019s misery. He resolves to crush the cruel monster and relieve the aged king. With fourteen chosen companions, he sets sail for Dane-land. Reaching that country, he soon persuades Hrothgar of his ability to help him. The hours that elapse before night are spent in beer-drinking and conversation. When Hrothgar\u2019s bedtime comes he leaves the hall in charge of Beowulf, telling him that never before has he given to another the absolute wardship of his palace. All retire to rest, Beowulf, as it were, sleeping upon his arms.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n
      Grendel comes, the great march-stepper, driven by envious anger. He seizes and kills one of the sleeping warriors. Then he advances towards Beowulf. A fierce and desperate hand-to-hand struggle ensues. No arms are used, both combatants trusting to strength and hand-grip. Beowulf tears Grendel\u2019s shoulder from its socket, and the monster retreats to his den, howling and yelling with agony and fury. The wound is fatal.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n
      The next morning, at early dawn, warriors in numbers flock to the hall Heorot, to hear the news. Joy is boundless. Glee runs high. Hrothgar and his retainers are lavish of gratitude and of gifts.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n
      Grendel\u2019s mother, however, comes the next night to avenge his death. She is furious and raging. While Beowulf is sleeping in a room somewhat apart\u00a0from the quarters of the other warriors, she seizes one of Hrothgar\u2019s favorite counselors, and carries him off and devours him. Beowulf is called. Determined to leave Heorot entirely purified, he arms himself, and goes down to look for the female monster. After traveling through the waters many hours, he meets her near the sea-bottom. She drags him to her den. There he sees Grendel lying dead. After a desperate and almost fatal struggle with the woman, he slays her, and swims upward in triumph, taking with him Grendel\u2019s head.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n
      Joy is renewed at Heorot. Congratulations crowd upon the victor. Hrothgar literally pours treasures into the lap of Beowulf; and it is agreed among the vassals of the king that Beowulf has all of qualities of a good liegelord.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n
      Beowulf leaves Dane-land. Hrothgar weeps and laments at his departure.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n
      When the hero arrives in his own land, Higelac treats him as a distinguished guest. He is the hero of the hour.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n
      Beowulf subsequently becomes king of his own people, the Geats. After he has been ruling for fifty years, his own neighborhood is woefully terrorized by a fire-spewing dragon. Beowulf determines to kill him. In the ensuing struggle both Beowulf and the dragon are slain. The grief of the Geats is inexpressible. They determine, however, to leave nothing undone to honor the memory of their lord. A great funeral-pyre is built, and his body is burnt. Then a memorial-barrow is made, visible from a great distance, that sailors afar may be constantly reminded of the prowess of the national hero of Geatland.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n
      The poem closes with a glowing tribute to his bravery, his gentleness, his goodness of heart, and his generosity.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n
      \n
      \n
      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.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
      \n
      \n<\/div>\n
      GLOSSARY OF PROPER NAMES\u00a0<\/strong><\/div>\n
      Most important names are highlighted.<\/span><\/div>\n
      \n
      \u00c6schere<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Confidential friend of King Hrothgar. Killed by Grendel’s mother to avenge death of Grendel.<\/p>\n
      Beowulf<\/b><\/span>.\u2014The 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.<\/p>\n
      Breca<\/b>.\u2014Beowulf\u2019s opponent in the famous swimming-match.<\/p>\n
      Cain<\/b>.\u2014Progenitor of Grendel and other monsters.<\/p>\n
      Danes<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Subjects 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.<\/p>\n
      Ecglaf<\/b>.\u2014Father of Unferth, who taunts Beowulf.<\/p>\n
      Ecgtheow<\/b>.\u2014Father of Beowulf, the hero of the poem. A widely-known W\u00e6gmunding warrior. Marries Hrethel\u2019s daughter. After slaying Heatholaf, a Wylfing, he flees his country.<\/p>\n
      Eagle Cape<\/b>.\u2014A promontory in Geat-land, under which took place Beowulf\u2019s last encounter.<\/p>\n
      Finn<\/b>.\u2014King of the North-Frisians and the Jutes. Marries Hildeburg. At his court takes place the horrible slaughter in which the Danish general, Hn\u00e6f, fell. Later on, Finn himself is slain by Danish warriors.<\/p>\n
      Fin-land<\/b>.\u2014The country to which Beowulf was driven by the currents in his swimming-match.<\/p>\n
      Franks<\/b>.\u2014Introduced occasionally in referring to the death of Higelac.<\/p>\n
      Frisians<\/b>.\u2014A part of them are ruled by Finn. Some of them were engaged in the struggle in which Higelac was slain.<\/p>\n
      Freaware<\/b>.\u2014Daughter of King Hrothgar. Married to Ingeld, a Heathobard prince.<\/p>\n
      Froda<\/b>.\u2014King of the Heathobards, and father of Ingeld.<\/p>\n
      Geats, Geatmen<\/b><\/span>.\u2014The race to which the hero of the poem belongs. Also called Weder-Geats, or Weders, War-Geats, Sea-Geats. They are ruled by Hrethel, H\u00e6thcyn, Higelac, and Beowulf.<\/p>\n
      Grendel<\/b><\/span>.\u2014A monster of the race of Cain. Dwells in the fens and moors. Is furiously envious when he hears sounds of joy in Hrothgar\u2019s 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\u2019s hall Heorot. His head is cut off by Beowulf when he goes down to fight with Grendel\u2019s mother.<\/p>\n
      Half-Danes<\/b>.\u2014Branch of the Danes to which Hn\u00e6f belonged.<\/p>\n
      Halga<\/b>.\u2014Surnamed the Good. Younger brother of Hrothgar.<\/p>\n
      H\u00e6thcyn<\/b>.\u2014Son of Hrethel and brother of Higelac. Kills his brother Herebeald accidentally. Is slain at Ravenswood, fighting against Ongentheow.<\/p>\n
      Herebeald<\/b>.\u2014Eldest son of Hrethel, the Geatish king, and brother of Higelac. Killed by his younger brother H\u00e6thcyn.<\/p>\n
      Heremod<\/b>.\u2014A Danish king of a dynasty before the Scylding line. Was a source of great sorrow to his people.<\/p>\n
      Healfdene<\/b>.\u2014Grandson of Scyld and father of Hrothgar. Ruled the Danes long and well.<\/p>\n
      Heardred<\/b>.\u2014Son of Higelac and Hygd, king and queen of the Geats. Succeeds his father, with Beowulf as regent. Is slain by the sons of Ohthere.<\/p>\n
      Heathobards<\/b>.\u2014Race of Lombards, of which Froda is king. After Froda falls in battle with the Danes, Ingeld, his son, marries Hrothgar\u2019s daughter, Freaware, in order to heal the feud.<\/p>\n
      Heort<\/b>, Heorot<\/b><\/span>.\u2014The 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.\u00a0 A hart is a deer.<\/p>\n
      Hn\u00e6f<\/b>.\u2014Leader of a branch of the Danes called Half-Danes. Killed in the struggle at Finn\u2019s castle.<\/p>\n
      Hondscio<\/b>.\u2014One of Beowulf\u2019s companions. Killed by Grendel just before Beowulf grappled with that monster.<\/p>\n
      Hrethel<\/b>.\u2014King of the Geats, father of Higelac, and grandfather of Beowulf.<\/p>\n
      Hrethric<\/b>.\u2014Son of Hrothgar.<\/p>\n
      Hrothgar<\/b><\/span>.\u2014The Danish king who built the hall Heort, but was long unable to enjoy it on account of Grendel\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
      Hrothmund<\/b>.\u2014Son of Hrothgar.<\/p>\n
      Hrothulf<\/b>.\u2014Probably a son of Halga, younger brother of Hrothgar. Certainly on terms of close intimacy in Hrothgar\u2019s palace.<\/p>\n
      Hrunting<\/b>.\u2014Unferth\u2019s sword, lent to Beowulf.<\/p>\n
      Hygelac<\/b>, Higelac<\/b><\/span>.\u2014King of the Geats, uncle and liegelord of Beowulf, the hero of the poem.\u2014His second wife is the lovely Hygd, daughter of H\u00e6reth. 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.<\/p>\n
      Hygd<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Wife of Higelac, and daughter of H\u00e6reth. There are some indications that she married Beowulf after she became a widow.<\/p>\n
      Ingeld<\/b>.\u2014Son of the Heathobard king, Froda. Marries Hrothgar\u2019s daughter, Freaware, in order to reconcile the two peoples.<\/p>\n
      Ingwins<\/b>.\u2014Another name for the Danes.<\/p>\n
      Jutes<\/b>.\u2014Name sometimes applied to Finn\u2019s people.<\/p>\n
      N\u00e6gling<\/b>.\u2014Beowulf\u2019s sword.<\/p>\n
      Offa<\/b>.\u2014King of the Angles, and son of Garmund. Marries the terrible Thrytho who is so strongly contrasted with Hygd.<\/p>\n
      Ohthere<\/b>.\u2014Son of Ongentheow, king of the Swedes. He is father of Eanmund and Eadgils.<\/p>\n
      Onela<\/b>.\u2014Brother of Ohthere.<\/p>\n
      Ongentheow<\/b>.\u2014King of Sweden, of the Scylfing dynasty. Married, perhaps, Elan, daughter of Healfdene.<\/p>\n
      Ravenswood<\/b>.\u2014The forest near which H\u00e6thcyn was slain.<\/p>\n
      Scyld<\/b>.\u2014Founder 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\u2014in a bark.<\/p>\n
      Scyldings<\/b>.\u2014The descendants of Scyld. They are also called Honor-Scyldings, Victory-Scyldings, War-Scyldings, etc. (See \u2018Danes,\u2019 above.)<\/p>\n
      Scylfings<\/b>.\u2014A Swedish royal line to which Wiglaf belonged.<\/p>\n
      Sigemund<\/b>.\u2014Son of W\u00e6ls, and uncle and father of Fitela. His struggle with a dragon is related in connection with Beowulf\u2019s deeds of prowess.<\/p>\n
      Swedes<\/b>.\u2014People of Sweden, ruled by the Scylfings.<\/p>\n
      Thrytho<\/b>.\u2014Wife 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.<\/p>\n
      Unferth<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Son 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\u2019s mother.<\/p>\n
      Weders<\/b>.\u2014Another name for Geats or Wedergeats.<\/p>\n
      Wayland<\/b>.\u2014A fabulous smith mentioned in this poem and in other old Teutonic literature.<\/p>\n
      Wulfgar —<\/strong>\u00a0Hrothgar\u2019s messenger and retainer. (Perhaps = Vandals.)<\/p>\n
      Wealhtheow<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Wife of Hrothgar. Her queenly courtesy is well shown in the poem.<\/p>\n
      Weohstan<\/b>, or Wihstan<\/b>.\u2014A W\u00e6gmunding, and father of Wiglaf.<\/p>\n
      Whale\u2019s Ness<\/b>.\u2014A prominent promontory, on which Beowulf\u2019s mound was built.<\/p>\n
      Wiglaf<\/b><\/span>.\u2014Son 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.<\/p>\n
      Wulf<\/b>.\u2014Son of Wonred. Engaged in the battle between Higelac\u2019s and Ongentheow\u2019s forces, and had a hand-to-hand fight with Ongentheow himself. Ongentheow disables him, and is thereupon slain by Eofor.<\/p>\n
      Wulfgar<\/b>.\u2014Lord of the Wendels, and retainer of Hrothgar.<\/p>\n
      Wylfings<\/b>.\u2014A people to whom belonged Heatholaf, who was slain by Ecgtheow.<\/p>\n
       <\/p>\n<\/div>\n
      \n
      LIST OF WORDS NOT IN GENERAL USE<\/strong><\/p>\n
      [Highlighted items are also used by Chaucer and Shakespeare.]<\/span><\/p>\n
      ATHELING.\u2014Prince, nobleman.<\/p>\n
      BAIRN.\u2014Son, child.<\/span><\/p>\n
      BARK.—Ship or boat<\/span><\/p>\n
      BARROW.\u2014Mound, rounded hill, funeral-mound.<\/p>\n
      BATTLE-SARK.\u2014Armor.<\/p>\n
      BEAKER.\u2014Cup, drinking-vessel.<\/p>\n
      BEGEAR.\u2014Prepare.<\/p>\n
      BIGHT.\u2014Bay, sea.<\/p>\n
      BILL.\u2014Sword.<\/p>\n
      BOSS.\u2014Ornamental projection.<\/p>\n
      BRACTEATE.\u2014A round ornament on a necklace.<\/p>\n
      BRAND.\u2014Sword.<\/p>\n
      BURN.\u2014Stream.<\/p>\n
      BURNIE.\u2014Armor.<\/p>\n
      CARLE.\u2014Man, hero.<\/span><\/p>\n
      EARL.\u2014Nobleman, any brave man.<\/p>\n
      EKE.\u2014Also.<\/span><\/p>\n
      EMPRISE.\u2014Enterprise, undertaking.<\/p>\n
      ERE<\/span>.—Before<\/p>\n
      ERST.\u2014Formerly.<\/span><\/p>\n
      ERST-WORTHY.\u2014Worthy for a long time past.<\/p>\n
      FAIN.\u2014Glad.<\/span><\/p>\n
      FERRY.\u2014Bear, carry.<\/p>\n
      FEY.\u2014Fated, doomed.<\/p>\n
      FLOAT.\u2014Vessel, ship.<\/p>\n
      FOIN.\u2014To\u00a0lunge.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n
      GLEEMAN.—Bard, scop, storyteller.<\/p>\n
      GLORY OF KINGS.\u2014God.<\/p>\n
      GRUESOME.\u2014Cruel, fierce.<\/p>\n
      HEFT.\u2014Handle, hilt; used by synecdoche for \u2018sword.\u2019<\/p>\n
      HELM.\u2014Helmet, protector.<\/p>\n
      HENCHMAN.\u2014Retainer, vassal, horseman.<\/span><\/p>\n
      HIGHT.\u2014Am (was) named.<\/p>\n
      HOLM.\u2014Ocean, curved surface of the sea.<\/p>\n
      HIMSEEMED.\u2014(It) seemed to him.<\/p>\n
      LIEF.\u2014Dear, valued. “would as lief” or “liefer” = would rather<\/span><\/p>\n
      MERE.\u2014Sea; in compounds, \u2018mere-ways,\u2019 \u2018mere-currents,\u2019 etc.<\/p>\n
      MICKLE.\u2014Much.<\/span><\/p>\n
      NATHLESS.\u2014Nevertheless.<\/p>\n
      NAZE.\u2014Edge (nose).<\/p>\n
      NESS.\u2014Edge.<\/p>\n
      NICKER.\u2014Sea-beast.<\/p>\n
      QUIT, QUITE.\u2014Requite.<\/p>\n
      RATHE.\u2014Quickly.<\/p>\n
      REAVE.\u2014Bereave, deprive.<\/p>\n
      RECK<\/span>.—Care.\u00a0 \u00a0“reckless” means without care<\/em>.<\/p>\n
      SAIL-ROAD.\u2014Sea.<\/p>\n
      SETTLE.\u2014Seat, bench.<\/p>\n
      SKINKER.\u2014One who pours.<\/p>\n
      SOOTHLY.\u2014Truly.<\/span><\/p>\n
      SWINGE.\u2014Stroke, blow.<\/p>\n
      THANE.<\/span>—Knight, liegeman, a man who pledges allegiance to a king<\/p>\n
      TARGE, TARGET.<\/span>\u2014Shield.\u00a0 The diminutive form target\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>later became word to refer to object aimed at.<\/p>\n
      THROUGHLY.\u2014Thoroughly.<\/p>\n
      TOLD.\u2014Counted.<\/span><\/p>\n
      UNCANNY.\u2014Ill-featured, grizzly.<\/p>\n
      UNNETHE.\u2014Difficult.<\/p>\n
      WAR-SPEED.\u2014Success in war.<\/p>\n
      WEB.\u2014Tapestry (that which is \u2018woven\u2019).<\/p>\n
      WEEDS.\u2014Clothing (cf. widow\u2019s weeds).<\/span><\/p>\n
      WEEN.\u2014Suppose, imagine.<\/span><\/p>\n
      WEIRD.\u2014Fate, Providence<\/span>.<\/p>\n
      WHILOM.\u2014At times, formerly, often.<\/span><\/p>\n
      WIELDER.\u2014Ruler. Often used of God; also in compounds, as \u2018Wielder of Glory,\u2019 \u2018Wielder of Worship.\u2019<\/p>\n
      WIGHT.\u2014Creature.<\/span><\/p>\n
      WIST.—Know<\/p>\n
      WOLD.\u2014Plane, extended surface.<\/p>\n
      WOT.\u2014Knows<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n
      YOUNKER.\u2014Youth.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
      \n
       <\/p>\n
      \n
      <\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
      \n
      This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with<\/span>almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or\u00a0<\/span>re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included\u00a0<\/span>with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.net<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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      Candela Citations<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t 
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      Public domain content<\/div>