scop a bard or singing (chanting) performer who often accompanies himself on a lute or harp, presenting historical or legendary stories of interest. He might be attached to a court or travel on his own. Preferred pronunciation is "shop."
Scylfing Swede.
sea-wind's cloak the ship's mast.
the shearer of life-threads the magical giant sword.
shepherd of sins Grendel, perhaps in contrast to God as shepherd of souls.
shield of the people here, a reference to King Hrothgar.
son of Ecglaf Unferth.
Sorrow Hill in Geatland, site of a battle where Swedes ambushed the Geats after Hrethel's death.
Spear-Danes Scyldings, the tribe of Scyld Scefing.
striplings adolescents, young warriors.
swathe to wrap with bandages.
swift roan Horses played an important role among the royalty, but most of the fighting was executed on foot.
thanes warriors who serve a king or feudal lord in exchange for land or treasure.
two seas apparently the Baltic and the Atlantic; possibly the Baltic and the North Sea.
uncle and nephew (1164) apparently a reference to Hrothgar and Hrothulf.
unsouled The soul was believed to leave the body shortly after death.
