Section XVI
Hrothgar lavishes gifts upon Beowulf: armor, gold, steeds, and treasures of great value.
13 argumentative units
- 01Description of Heorot's adornment
The hall of Heorot is ordered to be embellished with gold-flashing webs and ornaments by men and women gathered for the purpose.
- 02Description of the hall's damage from Grendel
The beautiful building was broken and fastened with iron, its hinges torn off, with only the roof remaining whole—destruction caused by Grendel's rampage.
- 03Meditation on the inevitability of death
The narrator reflects that it is difficult to avoid one's fate; every soul-bearer and inhabitant of earth must eventually come to the place appointed by Wyrd where their body will rest.
- 04Hrothgar proceeds to the feast
After feasting is finished, the son of Healfdene goes to Heorot to eat the banquet, demonstrating his generosity toward his warriors.
- 05Observation of the warriors' excellent behavior
The narrator notes that never has he heard of a larger war-band bearing themselves better toward their gift-giver than these warriors do.
- 06Description of the peaceful and loyal assembly
The assembly in Heorot, with Hrothgar and Hrothulf present, was filled with friendly people practicing no falsehood or treachery.
- 07Hrothgar presents gifts to Beowulf
The son of Healfdene offers Beowulf a golden standard, banner, breastplate, and helmet as rewards for the victory over Grendel.
- 08Claim about the unparalleled nature of the gifts
The narrator asserts that never has he heard of four such bright jewels with gold-work being presented in such friendly fashion on the ale-bench.
- 09Description of the protective qualities of the helmet
The helmet features a head-guard braided with wires and equipped with bosses, designed to protect the wearer from battle swords.
- 10Hrothgar grants eight steeds with royal trappings
The prince commands that eight gold-plated, gleaming steeds with bridles be brought, including one with an art-embroidered saddle that was the sovereign's own seat.
- 11Description of Hrothgar's martial prowess
The narrator notes that the famous one's valor never failed at the front when enemies were bowing down.
- 12Beowulf granted authority over steeds and weapons
The prince of the Ingwins grants Beowulf power and authority over both the war-steeds and weapons, bidding him to enjoy them well.
- 13Assessment of Hrothgar's generous requital
The narrator affirms that Hrothgar, the mighty-famed chieftain and hoard-ward of heroes, has requited the war-storms with horses and jewels in such a manly manner that no one can justly condemn him.