BEOWULF SIMPLIFIED.pdf

Prologue: Lines 1-52: The Spear-Danes Long ago, we Danes knew great glory in the days of our kings. These kings were strong and did mighty deeds. Shield Sheafson was one of them. He was a fierce warrior who took control of many lands and made his enemies fear him. Even though he...

Prologue: Lines 1-52: The Spear-Danes Long ago, we Danes knew great glory in the days of our kings. These kings were strong and did mighty deeds. Shield Sheafson was one of them. He was a fierce warrior who took control of many lands and made his enemies fear him. Even though he was once an abandoned child, he grew up powerful and respected, and other tribes had to submit to him and pay him tribute. He was a great king! Later, Shield had a son, a boy sent by God to help the people, who had suffered for a long time without a leader. This boy, named Beaw, grew up famous across the Northern lands as the heir to Shield. He did good deeds and gave gifts freely in his father's house, as a good leader should. Because of his noble efforts, his people would stand by him in battle when he became a king. When Shield Sheafson died, still in his prime, his people followed his wishes. They carried him down to the sea and laid him on a ship. The ship, covered in ice, was ready for a hero. They placed Shield in the middle of the ship with many treasures, armor, and weapons from far-off lands. The ship was heavy with all the wealth they gave him. They raised a golden banner high above him, then set the ship adrift on the ocean. They were sad, with troubled hearts, because they didn't know where the ship would go or what would happen to the treasures it carried. I:Lines:53-114: The Coming Of Grendel After Beaw became king, he ruled the forts and was loved by his people for a long time. He was famous among the people, and after his father passed away, Beaw became the elder of the land. His heir was Halfdane, a great leader who had fought many battles. Halfdane ruled the Shieldings (his people) for his entire life. Halfdane had four children: Heorogar, Hrothgar, Halga, and a daughter named Yrsa, who became the queen of Onela and a comfort to her people. Hrothgar, one of Halfdane’s sons, was especially fortunate and successful in battle. Because of this, many people followed him, and he gathered a strong army. Hrothgar decided to build a great mead-hall (a large gathering place) that would be famous forever. He wanted to share his wealth and fortune with everyone, young and old, except for common land or people’s lives. Many skilled workers were hired to build this grand hall, and soon it was finished. It was the finest hall, and Hrothgar named it Heorot. The hall became a place of great feasts, where Hrothgar generously gave out treasures. The hall was tall and grand, with high gables, but it wouldn’t be long before trouble started. A terrifying monster named Grendel, who lived in the dark marshes, became angry because he could hear the joyful sounds coming from the hall every day. The people in the hall sang and played music, telling stories of how the Almighty (God) created the earth, the sun, the moon, and all living things. They lived happily, but Grendel, a fiend from hell, couldn’t stand their happiness. Grendel was a fearsome demon, living in the swamps and moors, ruling over other exiled monsters. These creatures were descended from Cain (the first murderer in the Bible, who killed his brother Abel). Because of Cain’s terrible act, God banished him and his descendants. From Cain’s lineage came evil beings like ogres, elves, and giants who fought against God, but eventually, God punished them for their wickedness. II:Lines 115-188: The Monster’s Depredations So Grendel, the monster, set out at night to see how the Ring-Danes were doing after their feast. He found many noble warriors sleeping soundly in the great hall, exhausted from their celebration and unaware of any danger. Grendel, a cursed and savage creature, quickly grabbed thirty of these sleeping warriors. He killed them, satisfied his hunger with their flesh, and then returned to his lair. As dawn approached, the terrible deed was discovered. The joyful sounds of the feast were replaced by cries of sorrow. Hrothgar, the mighty king, was deeply saddened, mourning the loss of his men. The people saw the horrible trail left by Grendel, a reminder of the evil he had done. But their suffering was far from over. The very next night, Grendel returned and killed even more warriors. His fury was unstoppable, and people soon realized it was safer to sleep far away from the hall, avoiding the monster. Grendel continued his attacks, defying all attempts to stop him. The once great hall of Heorot was left deserted as fear took over. For twelve long years, Hrothgar and his people endured immense suffering and sorrow because of Grendel. The monster's hatred for Hrothgar and the Danes was relentless, and he refused to make peace or accept any truce. No one expected any mercy from Grendel, who brought death and destruction to both young and old, hiding in the misty moors and attacking when least expected. He was a mystery to everyone, a symbol of evil that roamed freely. Grendel committed many terrible crimes, haunting the shining hall of Heorot every night. However, he was never able to approach the throne of the hall, a place that symbolized divine favor, because he had no love for anything sacred. These were dark times for King Hrothgar and his people. Many wise men often gathered to discuss what could be done to stop the terror Grendel brought. Desperate, the Danes turned to their old pagan beliefs, offering prayers and sacrifices at shrines, hoping that some demon-slayer might come to their aid. But their hopes were misplaced, as they didn't know or honor the true God. Instead, they thought only of hell, blind to the presence of the Lord. Woe to those who die in terror, with no hope for salvation. Blessed, however, is the one who, after death, finds peace in the arms of the Lord. III:Lines:189-257: The Geats Take Ship Hrothgar, son of Halfdane, was deeply troubled by the situation with Grendel. The wise king was overwhelmed with sorrow, and the burden of these troubles weighed heavily on him and his people. The terror that came at night was unbearable. Meanwhile, in the land of the Geats, a warrior named Beowulf, who served King Hygelac, heard about Grendel. Beowulf was one of the strongest and most powerful men of his time. He decided to take action and ordered a boat to be prepared. He announced that he wanted to sail across the sea, known as the "swan-road," to help the Danish king, Hrothgar, who was in desperate need of strong warriors. Beowulf's loyal followers supported his decision, even though they valued him highly and knew the journey was dangerous. They encouraged him and sought signs for a successful journey. Beowulf chose the bravest warriors from among the Geats to join him—fifteen men in total. They all boarded the ship, which was ready on the shore. Beowulf, skilled in navigation, led the way. It took some time for the ship to get moving, but soon it was cutting through the waves. The warriors climbed aboard, the sea currents swirled, and the sand was churned by the boat as it set off. They loaded their bright weapons and gleaming armor into the hold, and with the wind at their backs, they sailed eagerly. The ship sped across the waves like a bird, and on the second day, they finally saw land. They had reached the Danish coast, where they saw sunlit cliffs, tall rock pillars, and wide headlands. Their journey was over. The warriors leapt ashore, coming from the land of the Geats, and secured their ship. Their armor clanged as they moved, and they thanked God for a calm and safe journey across the sea. A lookout, a warrior guarding the coast for the Danes, saw them from the wall. He noticed the glittering shields on the ship and the warriors armed with weapons. Curious and cautious, he rode down to the shore to meet them. He was a servant of King Hrothgar, and he held his spear as he approached, asking in a formal tone: "Who are you, wearing this war gear and chain-mail, and why have you sailed your tall ship across the sea to our land? I am the watchman here, guarding the coast to prevent any enemies from attacking Denmark. Never before have men arrived so openly, carrying shields and weapons, without permission from our leaders. I've never seen such a mighty warrior as your leader. You don't seem to be ordinary men. I need to know who you are and where you come from before I can let you go any further into the land of the Danes. Tell me quickly where you are from!" IV:Lines:258-319:Their Arrival On The Shore The leader of the group, Beowulf, spoke up, unlocking his thoughts: "We are from the land of the Geats, and we are loyal followers of King Hygelac. My father was a well-known warrior named Ecgtheow. He lived many years until he passed away, but his memory lives on among the wise throughout the world. We have come here to find your lord, Hrothgar, the son of Halfdane, who is the protector of the Danish people. Please guide us to him. We are here on an important mission, and there is no need to keep it a secret. We've heard that a mysterious enemy, a hidden destroyer, is causing terrible harm to the Shieldings, attacking them in the dark of night. I have come to offer advice to Hrothgar, to help him defeat this monster. If Hrothgar wants to find relief from his troubles and be free from this burden, I believe I can help. Otherwise, he may continue to suffer as long as Heorot, his great hall, stands." The watchman, who was on horseback, responded without hesitation: "Anyone with sense can tell the difference between good words and good actions by judging them rightly. I can see that you and your men are loyal to the king of the Shieldings. Go ahead with your weapons and armor, and I will guide you to him. I will also have my men guard your ship here on the beach, protecting it until it is time for it to take you back home. To those who do good deeds, it is given to survive even fierce attacks." So, they continued on their way. Their ship stayed anchored, secure on the beach. The helmets they wore, decorated with golden boars, shone brightly and protected their lives. The warriors marched together in step, moving quickly until they saw the great hall in the distance. The hall, shining with gold, stood tall—it was the most magnificent hall on earth, with its light shining out over many lands. Their guide led them straight to this glorious court where noble men gathered. As they arrived, the watchman turned his horse around and said, "Now I must leave you. May the Almighty Father protect you on your mission. I will return to watch the sea and guard against any enemies." V:Lines:320-370:Hrothgar’s Court The group walked down the stone street, their path bringing them close together. Their chainmail armor, made of linked rings, shone brightly and clanged as they moved. Their armor and weapons rang out as they marched directly toward the hall. Weary from their journey across the sea, they stacked their broad, sturdy shields against the walls and sat down on the benches, their armor clashing as they rested. Their spears, which were their defense as mariners, stood together like a cluster of trees, adorned with iron-tipped weapons. Then, a proud and noble warrior approached them and asked, "Where do you come from with these plated shields, steel-gray chainmail, and helmets? You carry many lances. I am Hrothgar’s officer and herald, and I have never seen such a group of brave-looking strangers. By your appearance, I can tell you seek Hrothgar not as exiles, but with courage and great purpose." Beowulf, the renowned and proud leader of the Geats, replied, "We are companions of Hygelac, and my name is Beowulf. I wish to announce my mission to Hrothgar, the famous son of Halfdane, your lord and king, if he will grant us an audience in his great wisdom." Wulfgar, a leader known for his bravery and wisdom, responded, "I will speak to the Lord of the Shieldings, the protector of the Danes, and tell him what you seek. I will quickly bring you his reply, whatever the noble king decides." Wulfgar then went to where Hrothgar sat, old and gray, surrounded by his earls. Walking with pride as a veteran warrior, Wulfgar took his place beside the Dane-lord and spoke to him: "Men from the land of the Geats have come here from far away, across the wide sea. Their leader is named Beowulf, and they request to speak with you. Gracious Hrothgar, please do not refuse them; grant their request. By their appearance and war-gear, they seem worthy of respect. The one who leads them is a powerful prince among warriors." VI:Lines 371-455: Beowulf’s Offer Hrothgar, the leader of the Shieldings, spoke: "I knew Beowulf when he was a boy. His father, Ecgtheow, was married to Hethel the Geat's only daughter. Now, his son has come here bravely, seeking a true friend. I’ve heard from sailors who brought gifts to Geatland that Beowulf, famous for his strength in battle, has the power of thirty men in his grip. I hope that God, in His goodness, has sent him to the West-Danes to fight Grendel and end this terror. For his courage, I’ll offer him valuable treasures. Quickly, invite him and his men to come before me. Tell them they are welcome in Daneland." The message was delivered: "My lord, the leader of the East-Danes, knows your noble lineage and welcomes you. Bold traveler of the sea, you may now enter to meet Hrothgar. But leave your battle-shields and spears here until we see the outcome of your discussion." Beowulf stood up with his warriors, leaving a few behind to guard their gear as he led the rest into Heorot’s great hall. Clad in shining armor crafted by skilled smiths, Beowulf addressed Hrothgar: "Greetings, Hrothgar. I am a kinsman and follower of Hygelac. Though I am young, I have accomplished great deeds. I’ve heard about Grendel’s attacks even in my homeland. Sailors say that this magnificent hall is left useless every night when darkness falls. So, King Hrothgar, the wisest of my people advised me to come here and offer my strength to help you. They’ve seen me return from battle, covered in the blood of my enemies, where I defeated five giants and killed sea-monsters in the night. I’ve weathered many storms and avenged the Geats by crushing our enemies. Now, I’ve come to face Grendel and end this terror. I have one request, King Hrothgar. Let me and my warriors cleanse Heorot. I’ve heard that Grendel, reckless as he is, doesn’t use weapons. So, to honor my lord Hygelac, I will also fight him without a sword or shield, using only my hands. We’ll fight, life against life, foe against foe, and let God decide the outcome. I suspect that Grendel will try to devour all of us Geats in this hall, just as he’s done before, without fear. If I fall in battle, you won’t need to prepare a funeral for me. Grendel will take my body, bloodstained and broken, and feast on my flesh. Just send my armor, the work of Wayland, to Hygelac if I die. Fate will decide what happens." VII:Lines:456-498:Hrothgar Replies Hrothgar, the leader of the Shieldings, responded: "Beowulf, my friend, you came here for the sake of the fight and to seek honor. Your father once started a serious feud when he killed Heatholaf, a member of the Wulfing tribe, with his own hand. Fearing revenge, his own people couldn’t protect him, so he sought refuge with us, the South-Danes, crossing the waves to reach us. I had just begun my rule over the Danes back then, though I was still young. I inherited this precious kingdom after my older brother, Heoragar, passed away. He was a better man than me. To settle the feud, I paid a blood-fee to the Wulfings, sending them ancient treasures over the sea. Your father swore peace with them. It saddens me to tell anyone about the shame Grendel brings to Heorot. He attacks swiftly and mercilessly, and my warriors are dwindling as fate takes them away amidst Grendel’s violence. But perhaps God will put an end to this bold monster's actions. Time and again, my warriors, after drinking beer, have vowed to stay in the hall with sharp blades to defend Heorot from Grendel. But in the morning, the noble hall was stained with blood. The benches were soaked from the battle, and I lost many dear companions to death. Now, sit at the table and share stories of your heroic deeds as you wish." Then a bench was set for the Geats in the hall. The brave warriors sat together, proud and skilled. A thane served them rich ale, pouring bright mead. At times, a bard sang clearly in Heorot, bringing joy to the gathering of Danes and Geats. VIII:Lines:499-558:The Sea-Monsters Unferth, the son of Ecglaf, who sat at Hrothgar’s feet, spoke up. He was annoyed by Beowulf's daring sea voyage because he didn’t want to believe that anyone else could have greater achievements on earth than he did. He said, "Are you the same Beowulf who competed with Breca in a sea race, paddling through the ocean? Out of foolish pride, you both risked your lives on the open water. No one, friend or foe, could convince you to abandon that reckless contest. You struggled through the sea currents, battling the waves for seven nights in winter’s cold. Breca was the stronger man and beat you, arriving safely on the shores of his homeland, where he was welcomed by his people. That son of Beanstan proved his worth by outlasting you. So, I expect an even worse outcome for you if you dare to face Grendel tonight, no matter how many battles you’ve won before." Beowulf, son of Ecgtheow, replied, "Unferth, my friend, you’ve been talking a lot about Breca while drunk on beer. But the truth is that I was stronger in the sea than anyone else. When we were young, Breca and I promised to test ourselves on the sea, and we did. We swam with our swords ready to defend ourselves from sea creatures. Breca wasn’t faster than me, and I didn’t let him outswim me. We were together for five nights until the waves separated us, as the cold weather and fierce winds created a wild storm. My chain-mail armor, strong and well-made, protected me from the sea creatures. One monster dragged me deep underwater, but I managed to kill it with my sword." IX:Lines:559-661:Beowulf’s Vow Beowulf continued, “Time and again, hateful sea creatures surrounded me. But I fought them off with my sword. They didn’t get to make me their prey or feast on me at the bottom of the sea. Instead, they ended up dead by my blade, lying on the wet sand at dawn. Thanks to my efforts, no sailor is troubled by them anymore. Light from the east, God’s bright beacon, came, and the sea calmed. I could see the headlands, the wind-swept cliffs. Fate often spares a man if he has the courage to hold on. Somehow, I managed to kill nine of those creatures. I’ve never heard of a fiercer fight under heaven, nor of any man who endured such a pounding from the waves. Yet I survived the enemy’s grasp, though exhausted from the battle. The sea carried me, with the tide at its peak, to Finland. I’ve never heard of you, Unferth, being in such a fight, or wielding your sword in such a way. Breca didn’t do anything like this, nor did you. This isn’t just boasting – it’s the truth. Moreover, you killed your own brother, your close kin. Despite your cleverness, you’ll suffer torment in Hell. I tell you the truth, Unferth, Grendel would never have caused so much trouble for your king or brought such shame to Heorot if your mind and heart were as fierce as you claim. But Grendel found out he had little to fear from your people in battle, from the supposed strength of the Victory-Shieldings. He continues his rampage, sparing no Dane, killing and slaughtering as he pleases. He doesn’t expect any real fight from the Spear-Danes. But I’ll show him the strength and resolve of the Geats before long. Soon, men will be able to drink mead again in peace when the sun rises and brings light to the world once more.” Hrothgar, the wise and great-hearted leader of the Bright-Danes, listened to Beowulf and trusted in his firm resolve. The hall filled with laughter and joyful sounds. Then Wealhtheow, Hrothgar’s queen, entered, adorned with gold, to greet the men in the hall. She handed a full cup of ale first to Hrothgar, wishing him happiness as he drank. The honored king enjoyed the feast and the drink. Then, the queen continued to offer the cup to each of the warriors, young and old, generously giving a drink to all. Finally, she brought the cup to Beowulf. She greeted him with wise words, thanking God that her wish had been granted, that a noble man had come to help them fend off the evil that threatened them. Beowulf, the son of Ecgtheow, took the rich cup from Wealhtheow. Eager for battle, he spoke to her seriously, saying, “When I set out to sea with my warlike crew, I made up my mind to fulfill your people’s wishes or die in the fight, caught in the grip of that fiend. I will do the deed bravely or meet my end, as fate wills, here in this mead-hall.” The queen, pleased with Beowulf’s vow, went to sit beside her lord. The hall returned to its usual lively state, with brave words spoken and the men full of joy, talking loudly of victory. At last, Hrothgar, the son of Halfdane, decided it was time to seek rest for the evening. He knew that the ogre Grendel was likely planning another raid on the hall as soon as nightfall came. The warriors rose from their seats, and Hrothgar spoke to Beowulf before leaving, wishing him well. The ruler of the wine-hall said, “Since I was able to raise a shield and fight, I’ve never trusted this stronghold of the Danes to any man but you. Now, have it and hold this best of houses. Think of glory, show mighty courage, and be wary of the enemy. You’ll need nothing if you survive this brave deed alive.” X:Lines:662-709: Beowulf Waits For Grendel Then Hrothgar, the protector of the Shieldings, left the hall with his group of warriors and went to seek Wealhtheow, his queen, for rest. But as people would learn, the Lord in His Glory left a guardian behind in the hall to protect against Grendel. This guardian was Beowulf, who was now waiting for the ogre, keeping a special watch on behalf of the Danish leader. The Geat warrior, Beowulf, trusted completely in the favor of his Maker, the Almighty’s power. Confident in his strength and faith, Beowulf took off his iron breastplate, removed his helmet, and handed his well-crafted sword to his servant, instructing him to guard his battle gear. Before lying down to rest, Beowulf, the noble Geat, spoke proudly: “I do not consider myself weaker in strength than Grendel when it comes to a fight. Therefore, I won’t take his life with a sword, though I easily could. Even if he is known for committing evil, he isn’t skillful enough to strike me or break through my shield. Let there be no swords used this night if he dares to fight without weapons. Then, the Holy God, the Wise Lord, will decide who wins and grant the glory to whoever He sees fit.” So the brave warrior lay down to sleep, with a pillow under his head, and his loyal crew settled down to rest around him. None of them expected to ever see their homeland, their families, or their loved ones again. They knew that death had already taken too many Danes in that mead-hall. But the Lord, in His mercy, granted them a different fate and gave them comfort and strength through one man’s might. It is known that Almighty God rules over mankind forever. As the night grew darkest, the shadowy wanderer, Grendel, approached. The warriors guarding the horned hall were all asleep—except for one. Beowulf, who was on watch, was awake, filled with anger and ready for the battle that was about to come. XI:Lines:710-790: The Fight Then, from the dark moor beneath misty cliffs, Grendel came loping, carrying the wrath of God. This foul creature planned to attack mankind again, hoping to find more victims in the high hall. He crept under the clouds until he saw the shining mead-hall, glittering with gold. It wasn’t the first time he had targeted Hrothgar’s hall, and never before or since had the hall-thanes faced worse fortune. Joyless and filled with malice, Grendel moved toward the hall. The door, reinforced with iron bands, sprang open at his touch. Enraged and full of evil intent, he tore through the entrance and quickly crossed the patterned floor, advancing angrily. Strange lights, almost like flames, shot from his eyes as he gazed at the many warriors sleeping inside. Seeing a crowd of sleeping spearmen, his heart leapt with cruel excitement. The monster was determined to kill them all before dawn. He had stumbled upon a feast, but fate had other plans. This would be the last time Grendel would feed on human flesh. Beowulf, Hygelac’s brave kinsman, was alert and ready, watching how the vicious killer approached for a sudden attack. Grendel wasted no time; he swiftly grabbed a sleeping warrior, tore him apart, and devoured him, biting to the bone and drinking his heart’s blood. He quickly consumed the entire body, head to foot. But when Grendel reached out to seize Beowulf, the hero was ready. Beowulf grabbed Grendel’s arm with a grip tighter than anything the monster had ever encountered. For the first time in his life, Grendel felt fear. He wanted nothing more than to escape, to flee back to his devilish lair, but Beowulf held him fast. Recalling his vow from the evening, Beowulf tightened his grip, his fingers straining with the effort. Grendel, desperate to escape, felt his strength failing as Beowulf held on. The monster had made a terrible mistake in coming to Heorot. The struggle between them caused a great noise in the hall. The walls of the mead-hall echoed with the sounds of their fierce battle. It was a wonder the hall didn’t collapse under the strain, but it held firm, bound by iron. Many golden benches broke loose as they wrestled, but the hall itself stood strong. The North-Danes, hearing the dreadful sounds, were filled with horror. They listened to the ghastly screams of Grendel, God’s enemy and a prisoner of Hell, howling in defeat as he realized he was overpowered. Beowulf, the mightiest man of his time, had Grendel in a tight grip, and the monster knew he was facing his end. XII:Lines:791-836: Beowulf’s Victory Beowulf had no intention of letting Grendel, the murderous guest, survive. He knew that Grendel’s life was worth nothing. Beowulf’s warriors, eager to protect their famous leader, drew their ancestral swords and joined the fight. However, they didn’t realize that no weapon on earth, no matter how sharp, could harm Grendel. He was immune to all blades. Even though Grendel was invulnerable to swords, he was still destined to suffer and die. His evil spirit would soon leave his body and be taken away to the fiends. The creature, who had so often brought misery to mankind and fought against God, now found himself powerless. Beowulf, Hygelac’s brave relative, had him in a firm grip. Both Beowulf and Grendel despised each other. Grendel felt immense pain as Beowulf’s strength began to tear him apart. His shoulder was ripped from its socket, the sinews snapped, and the muscles tore. In this fierce battle, victory was given to Beowulf. Grendel, now mortally wounded, fled to his dark, joyless lair beneath the fens. He knew his life was ending and that his days were numbered. The Danes had hoped for such a victory, and Beowulf, strong and wise, had saved Hrothgar’s great hall from destruction. He was proud of his night’s work, his brave deed. He had kept his promise to the East-Danes and relieved them of the terrible suffering and sorrow they had endured for so long. As a clear sign of his victory, the brave warrior Beowulf nailed Grendel’s arm, along with the hand and shoulder, to the roof of the hall for all to see