Section XV

Hrothgar gives thanks to God (the Wielder) for freeing his people from Grendel's terror and demonstrates God's power through wonder upon wonder.

Hrothgar admits that he previously believed no comfort could come from his sorrows while Grendel terrorized the hall, and the wise men feared they could never defend against such monsters.

Through God's might, Beowulf a mere retainer has achieved a deed that all of Hrothgar's wise men with their excellent wisdom failed to accomplish.

Hrothgar praises whatever woman gave birth to Beowulf, affirming that God was generous in blessing her with such a child.

Hrothgar declares he will henceforth love Beowulf as his own child and establish a familial relationship with him.

Hrothgar promises to give Beowulf all the earthly joys in his power, noting that he has given precious treasure for lesser deeds to weaker warriors.

Hrothgar declares that through his extraordinary deeds, Beowulf's glory shall flourish forever, and prays that God reward him as he has in the past.

Beowulf modestly replies that he gladly accomplished the labor and ventured against the enemy without hesitation.

Beowulf states that he intended to bind Grendel with firm fetters and force him to lie dying, but was unable to hold him.

Beowulf attributes his failure to hold Grendel to God's will, acknowledging that he could not firmly grasp the swift enemy.

Beowulf notes that Grendel left his arm and shoulder hanging behind as evidence of the battle, serving as a watcher or marker.

Beowulf declares that the creature now suffers in snare-meshes and bonds, waiting for God's judgment and ultimate punishment for his evils.

The boastful Unferth ceases his bragging about battle achievements, humbled by the sight of Grendel's hand and Beowulf's undeniable victory.

The assembly observes Grendel's hand and fingers hanging beneath the hall-timbers, evidence of the creature's defeat that even the strongest swords could not overcome.