Section XXVI

Hrothgar describes how a man wounded by pride becomes enslaved to covetousness, hoarding gold without generosity and forgetting the future God has ordained for him.

Hrothgar asserts that bodily dwellings fade and crumble, and another person eventually takes possession of all treasures without concern, illustrating the transience of earthly things.

Hrothgar directly urges Beowulf to defend himself from bale-strife and to choose eternal counsel, establishing the ethical imperative at the heart of his moralizing.

Hrothgar warns against arrogance, claiming that life-vigor is brief and death comes through many means: illness, sword, fire, water, spear, age, and darkness.

Hrothgar recounts his fifty-year reign over the Danes, during which he protected them against many enemies through warfare.

Hrothgar describes how, despite his long protective reign, Grendel came as an inveterate hater, causing him continual trouble and sorrow, demonstrating that even a just ruler may face trials.

Hrothgar gives thanks to God for allowing him to witness Grendel's defeat, ending his long sorrow and affirming divine providence.

Hrothgar invites Beowulf to the bench and promises shared treasure-giving in the morning, transitioning from moral instruction to hospitality.

The passage describes how Beowulf complies with Hrothgar's invitation, the warriors feast again, and as night falls, both Hrothgar and Beowulf retire to sleep.

An attendant leads the fatigued Beowulf to rest, the passage noting the building's grandeur and that Beowulf sleeps until dawn, when the raven announces the new day.

As morning arrives with the sun, the warriors and Beowulf prepare to leave for their vessel, showing the conclusion of the Danish visit.

Beowulf is given the sword Hrunting by Unferth (Ecglaf's son), which Beowulf thanks him for, praising both the weapon and its giver without complaint.

Beowulf, now armed and ready, approaches the dais to greet King Hrothgar before his departure, showing respect and courtesy.