Section XXXVIII

Wiglaf hears Beowulf's request and immediately enters the dragon's barrow in his armor to retrieve the treasure.

The passage catalogs the magnificent treasures Wiglaf discovers in the cavern: gold, jeweled vessels, ancient ornaments, helmets, arm-bracelets, and a remarkable golden banner that illuminates the cave.

The speaker pauses to observe that gold and treasures easily lead mortals to vanity and arrogance, regardless of their station.

Wiglaf observes that he sees no sight of the dragon itself, only evidence of its demise from the sword's edge.

Wiglaf collects treasures from the ancient giant-work hoard, carrying beakers, platters, and the golden banner on his person.

The passage describes the dragon as the long-time guardian of the jewels, breathing fire and rolling in battle until Beowulf killed it.

Motivated by curiosity about whether his lord still lives and urged by the weight of the jewels, Wiglaf returns to find Beowulf at death's door.

Wiglaf bathes the dying king with water and holds him as Beowulf regains consciousness.

Upon regaining consciousness and seeing the golden gems, Beowulf gives thanks to God for allowing him to obtain this wealth for his people before death.

Beowulf acknowledges that he has traded his long life for the treasure and now must depart, instructing his retainers to heed his remaining wishes.

Beowulf commands that his people build a bright burial mound at the cliff's edge, to be called Beowulf's barrow, as an enduring memorial to his rule that seafarers will recognize.

The dying king removes his golden ring and gives it, along with his helmet, collar, and war-mail, to his loyal retainer Wiglaf, commanding him to enjoy them.

Beowulf tells Wiglaf that he is the last survivor of their Wægmunding kinship, as death has taken all the other earls of their line to glory, and Beowulf must now follow them.

After speaking these final words, Beowulf mounts the funeral fire as his soul departs to join the blessed in glory.