Section XIV

The poet describes how at dawn, warriors from far and near assemble at the gift-hall to hear of the night's adventures and witness the wonder of Grendel's footprints.

The poet asserts that few warriors feel grief at Grendel's death, emphasizing the general satisfaction at his defeat and departure from the lands.

The poet describes how Grendel's blood mingles with the water, creating bloody currents, and how he dies in his lair where hell receives him.

The poet recounts that as warriors depart, Beowulf's praises are frequently proclaimed, and he is regarded as unmatched in prowess and worthiness to govern.

The poet notes that despite Beowulf's great acclaim, no one speaks mockingly of or against King Hrothgar, who remains honored as a good king.

The poet describes the famed warriors riding their fallow-skinned horses in rivalry on the fair fieldways as part of celebratory activities.

The poet introduces a man of celebrity, a bard who treasures ancient traditions in memory and creates new word-groups in proper alliterative form.

The poet describes how the bard skillfully and earnestly tells of Beowulf's achievement with clever and appropriate words.

The bard narrates the hidden and glorious deeds of Sigemund and his conflict as a Wælsing, including his strife and adventures.

The poet describes how Fitela, nephew to Sigemund, was devoted to his uncle in all contentions, and together they slew many enemies with the sword.

The poet recounts how Sigemund achieved great glory by single-handedly destroying a great dragon and hoard-keeper beneath a hoar-grayish stone without Fitela's aid.

The poet describes how Sigemund gained great achievement and enjoyment by reaping from the ring-hoard, loading his vessel with shining ornaments before the drake melted in heat.

The poet asserts that Sigemund was the most famed among wanderers throughout the wide world for his works of great prowess and became a war-troopers' shelter, increasing in honor.

The poet introduces Heremod, an unfortunate Danish king whose hero-strength failed him and who was delivered to his enemies early, contrasting him with Sigemund.

The poet explains how Heremod, oppressed by agony-billows, became a burden to his people and all the atheling nobles rather than a source of help.

The poet recounts how many wise men deplored Heremod's journey, as they had hoped he would bring help in sorrow and govern the kingdom like his fathers.

The poet asserts that Beowulf, Higelac's kinsman, became far more beloved to all men, kindreds, and races, and dearer to his friends than the unfortunate Heremod.

The poet describes how after the morning's racing, Hrothgar himself, along with the queen and attending maidens, walks through the mead-ways to view the wonder.