Section II

The passage establishes that Beowulf, son of Scyld, was a beloved and famous prince among the Danish folk before his father's death, after which Healfdene became the great leader of the Danes.

Healfdene fathered four children in succession—Heorogar, Hrothgar, Halga, and a daughter Elan (wife of Ongentheow)—who would grow to be war-troopers and leaders.

Hrothgar gained glory in battle and war-fame such that his kinsmen willingly obeyed his bidding as he and his brothers grew to manhood.

Hrothgar's spirit burned with the desire to command his people to construct a mead-hall greater than any before, where he could share all his blessings with young and old save life and retainers.

The construction work was assigned to many peoples throughout middle-earth's regions, and the great hall was eventually completed and named Heorot by Hrothgar, who wielded great authority among his earls.

Hrothgar did not break his promise, lavishing rings and treasure at banquets; the hall towered high with horn-crested roof and great antlers, magnificent and enduring.

The monster Grendel, dwelling in darkness, endured bitterly the light-hearted laughter and dulcet harp-music that greeted him daily from the hall, embodying his mad envy of the Danemen's joy.

The passage briefly invokes the account of creation, explaining how the Father Almighty created the earth and sky, set the sun and moon to shed their light, and bestowed life on all creatures.

The warriors' joy and abundance came to be overcast when a foe appeared in the hall—Grendel, the famous march-stepper who dwelt in moor-fens, marshes, and the land of giants, bringing deeds of dire malice.

Grendel descended from Cain's kindred, whom the Father Almighty punished with vengeance for the murder of Abel, driving them far from kindred to atone for their crime.

From Cain's cursed line came all ill-favored creatures—elves, giants, monsters of ocean, and others who grappled with God—to whom the Lord gave His requital and judgment.