After Beowulf kills Grendel's mother, a series of significant events unfold in the underwater cavern before he resurfaces.
The Immediate Aftermath of Beowulf's Victory
Upon slaying Grendel's mother, the dark, ominous cavern is suddenly illuminated by a great light. This unexpected brilliance reveals more than just the scene of his recent battle.
Discoveries Within the Cavern
With the cavern bathed in light, Beowulf makes several key discoveries:
- Grendel's Corpse: The body of Grendel, whom Beowulf had previously mortally wounded, is found lying in the cavern.
- A Pile of Treasure: Alongside the bodies, a substantial hoard of treasure is disclosed, glimmering in the newfound light.
Beowulf's Subsequent Actions
Beowulf does not linger long or take the treasure. His primary objectives fulfilled, he proceeds with definitive actions:
- Decapitation of Grendel's Corpse: Driven by a desire for definitive proof of Grendel's death and perhaps for symbolic retribution, Beowulf uses the magic sword to decapitate Grendel's corpse. This act underscores the finality of the monster's demise.
- The Melting of the Magic Sword: After this final, powerful blow, the magic sword that Beowulf used to defeat Grendel's mother and decapitate Grendel melts down to its hilt. This signifies the immense power it wielded and its purpose being fulfilled.
- Leaving the Treasure: Despite the allure of the vast treasure pile, Beowulf leaves it untouched. His quest was for glory and safety for the Danes, not material wealth.
- Return to the Surface: Beowulf then makes his way back to the lake's surface, carrying two significant trophies from his victory: Grendel's head and the hilt of the melted magic sword.
These actions demonstrate Beowulf's heroic resolve, his focus on tangible proof of victory over material gain, and his ultimate return to the world above.
