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The Library
of Alexandria

Beowulf, Part 5 summary

Part 5 of 43 · 3 min to read the part

In V. The Geats Reach Heorot, Beowulf identifies his companions and offers Hrothgar help against the attacker who troubles the Danes. The coast guard accepts their peaceful intentions, arranges protection for their ship, and leads them toward the splendid hall before returning to his watch by the sea.

What happens

  1. Beowulf identifies the visitors as Higelac’s companions from Geatland and names his father, Ecgtheow.
  2. He asks about the Danes’ nighttime attacker and offers Hrothgar advice against the destroyer.
  3. The coast guard stresses the difference between promises and action, accepts their intentions, and promises guards for their ship.
  4. The armed visitors follow him until the gleaming royal hall comes into view.
  5. The coast guard points out their destination, asks divine protection for their mission, and returns toward the sea.

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What does the coast guard promise to protect?

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