Section XXVIII

Beowulf and his retainers arrive back at the coast of the Geatland, where the coast-guard recognizes them and greets them warmly without suspicion.

The vessel is laden with armor, horses, jewels, and the treasure of Hrothgar, with the mast towering above all the riches.

Beowulf presents a valuable heirloom sword to the guard, which elevates the guard's status and honor at the ale-bench.

The ship departs from Denmark with full sail, driven by wind and breezes across the ocean until the cliffs of Geatland come into view.

The port-warden, who has been anxiously watching for their return, secures the vessel and directs the unloading of treasure to present to King Higelac.

Higelac is introduced as a heroic and great king who dwells near the sea-coast with his comrades in a splendid building.

Queen Hygd, though young and having lived only briefly among the Geats, is fine-mooded, clever, and notably generous with rare ornaments and gifts to the people.

The poet introduces Thrytho as a contrast to Hygd, characterizing her as an excellent but problematic queen who harbors anger and hatred.

No hero in the household dares look upon Thrytho during the day except her husband, as those who do risk death through hand-combat and the sword.

The poet condemns such behavior as contrary to proper womanly custom, noting that a peace-weaver should not kill beloved lieges on mere pretense of anger.

Heming's kinsman (Offa) prevented further harm, and after Thrytho was married to Offa, her treacherous deeds decreased and her reputation improved.

Once given in marriage with honor to young warrior Offa, Thrytho journeyed to his palace and later became famous for virtue, holding the love of the best king on earth.

Offa is celebrated as a spear-valiant hero famous far and wide for gifts and battles, who governed his ancestral home with wisdom and produced renowned descendants like Eomær and Heming's grandson Garmund.