Then Beowulf gives an uninspired account of his victories. The reader may wonder at the purpose of this account; even Beowulf admits that the story is “scarcely a secret to much of mankind” (2001) by the time he arrives at Hygelac’s court. Although it fits dramatically, the reader should remember that the Beowulf epic probably was performed over the course of two or more nights. Recounting the first two victories refreshes the audience’s memory and prepares it for the third major battle and the conclusion of the poem.
The theme of generosity is tied to a retainer’s relationship with his king and dominates the remainder of this section. Generosity is symbolic politically and socially in Beowulf’s world, significant in ways that transcend modern custom. A thane (or retainer) owes his lord first choice of treasure gained in battle. For his part, the ruler rewards the warrior with payments of gold or other values, including land, commensurate to the thane’s achievements and value to his lord. Upon his return from Heorot, Beowulf reports on the Scyldings’ King Hrothgar’s generosity and presents Hygelac with the treasures that the young champion has earned, including “the boar’s-head standard, / high-crowned helmet, great iron shirt, / [and] ornamented war-sword” (2152–2154). Hrothgar would expect the young warrior to do this.
To enhance value, Beowulf informs Hygelac of the history of the gifts. Nor does he slight Queen Hygd, honoring her with the gold necklace as well as three horses with gold saddles. This generosity demonstrates respect and loyalty. In return, Hygelac presents Beowulf with an extremely valuable gold sword that once belonged to King Hrethel; he makes Beowulf a lord, officially granting him land, his own great hall, and a “gift-throne” (2196). We are told that Hygelac and Beowulf each inherited land, as well, but that Hygelac is the higher in rank and head of the kingdom.
