Section XI

The narrator establishes the scene by describing Hrothgar's departure from Heorot with his retinue, seeking the queen Wealhtheow as his bedmate.

The narrator notes that God has appointed a guard against Grendel—implying divine providence has arranged for Beowulf to be the protector of Heorot.

The narrator characterizes Beowulf's confidence as rooted in both his martial prowess and his faith in divine aid from the Almighty.

Beowulf removes his iron armor and weapons, entrusting them to his servant before lying down to sleep.

Beowulf declares that he is no lesser warrior than Grendel himself and therefore will not use weapons against the monster.

Beowulf asserts that he will fight Grendel without swords or shields, relying instead on natural strength and wrestling skill.

Beowulf concludes his boast by submitting the outcome to divine judgment, trusting that God will grant glory to whichever side he deems fit.

The narrator describes how Beowulf and his men settle into sleep, with their heads resting on pillows in the hall.

The narrator reveals that Beowulf's men believed they would not survive to see their homeland again, having heard of Grendel's devastating slaughter of the Danes.

The narrator asserts that God provided aid and comfort to the Geats, enabling them to defeat all opponents through the might of one man—Beowulf.

The narrator affirms the theological principle that God has eternal sovereignty over all nations and kindreds across time.

The narrator marks the arrival of Grendel at the hall, the pivotal moment when the monster approaches to attack the sleeping warriors.

The narrator emphasizes that Beowulf alone is conscious and ready, serving as the sole guardian against the monster while his men sleep.