1. Beowulf travels to Daneland
When Hrothgar asks for Beowulf's help, Beowulf immediately agrees. Because his father had been a close companion of Hrothgar, Beowulf feels obliged to answer the king's request, so he gathers his warriors and sails to Daneland.
2. Hrothgar receives Beowulf
On arrival, Beowulf is welcomed by Hrothgar along with the king's family and retainers. A great feast is held to honor the famed visitor, since people can relax now that someone strong has come to deal with Grendel.
3. Beowulf lies in wait for Grendel at Heorot
Beowulf and his men pretend to sleep in Heorot (Hrothgar's hall) while they wait for Grendel. When the monster appears, Beowulf and his men attack and wound him; Beowulf tears off one of Grendel's arms before the creature escapes to its lair.
4. Beowulf finishes off Grendel by cutting off his head
Grendel does not get far after being injured — he bleeds heavily and collapses in the woods. Beowulf catches up to him and kills the monster by ripping off its head with his bare hands, ending that menace.
5. Beowulf battles Grendel's mother
Though he thought the danger was over, Grendel's mother remains alive and furious over her son's death. Beowulf must fight her as well to protect Hrothgar and his people.
6. Beowulf returns toward his Geatish home
After slaying Grendel and his mother, Beowulf heads back to his homeland where he is celebrated as an even greater hero. However, following Hrothgar's death, he later returns to Daneland to become king there rather than remaining in his original country.
7. Beowulf faces the dragon
In his final confrontation, an aged Beowulf fights a dragon threatening his realm. He wounds the dragon but is fatally injured in the struggle; afterward, his warrior Wiglaf is charged with finishing the dragon off.
