Student Question

What is the concluding sad scene in the epic Beowulf?

Quick answer:

The slave awakens the dragon. The Geats are attacked and Beowulf goes to face the dragon, but is mortally wounded in the fight. Wiglaf accompanies him and together, they slay the dragon. During this time, Beowulf reflects on his life and thanks God for giving him fame and glory: The warden of earth-folk found words to say. His spirit was bold, his mood resolute: "I have lived my life, I am old now among earth-folk, in days long since numbered. My doom is near; death is drawing nigh; I shall go hence into the keep of earth. He who has the most gold when he lies down shall take it with him."

Expert Answers

An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

The sad event that concludes the epic is the elderly Beowulf’s death in the battle with the fire-drake.

At the beginning of the tale, Beowulf is a strapping young man in the prime of youth.  He is already a hero, and has come to fight the monster Grendel.  His men follow him unquestioningly, and Hrothgar welcomes him with open arms to take care of their resident beast.

Beowulf does so, and very successfully.  He kills Grendel and Grendel’s mother, following the latter deep under the earth.  He is able to retire to a life of relative leisure at home, until a new threat emerges.

Beowulf leaves the fire-drake a “fearsome and grisly fiend, all scorched with flames.”

It was fifty foot-measurements in length where it lay. It had been supreme when it went aloft during the night-hours, then returning back to seek its den—now in death's fast clutches it had ended its joy in the earthen caverns. (Ch. 41)

Beowulf started out fighting it with an army, but soon Wiglaf was the only one left.  With no weapon but a dagger, Beowulf killed the dragon, but he was mortally wounded in the process and did not live as long.

After “fifty winters” (Ch. 37), of peaceful rule Beowulf had more than earned retirement.  His honor would not allow him to think of it.  He died a hero’s death, and saved his people.

Most epics did end with the hero’s death, often in battle.  After all, how could a hero just die of old age?  He has to go out with a bang, in a blaze of glory, as a hero should.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Approved by eNotes Editorial