Story Summary
Read the legendary conclusion of Beowulf and the Dragon as the aging king faces a final, fiery foe to protect his people. A timeless tale of courage and duty.
After fifty years of peaceful rule over the Geats, King Beowulf’s realm was disturbed by a great fire-drake. A desperate runaway slave had stumbled into an ancient burial mound and stolen a gem-studded goblet from a massive hoard. Enraged by the theft, the dragon emerged at night, breathing torrents of flame that consumed the homes of the Geats, including Beowulf's own royal hall. Though aged, Beowulf refused to let his people suffer. He commissioned a specialized iron shield to withstand the heat and set out for the dragon's barrow with eleven warriors. Near the cave, he bid his men wait, insisting this final challenge was his burden alone. As the beast emerged, Beowulf struck with his ancient sword, Naegling, but the blade failed to pierce the scales and eventually snapped under the pressure. The dragon clamped its venomous fangs into the king’s neck. Terrified, Beowulf’s companions fled into the woods—all except for young Wiglaf. Driven by loyalty, Wiglaf rushed into the flames to aid his lord. Together, they dealt a fatal blow to the beast, but the victory was bitter. As the dragon’s poison took hold, Beowulf gazed upon the gold he had won for his people one last time. He died a hero, leaving his crown and the future of the Geats to the faithful Wiglaf.
The Moral
True heroism is defined by a sense of duty and the willingness to sacrifice oneself for the protection of others, regardless of the personal cost.
“Fate goes ever as she must.”
Fun Fact
The dragon in Beowulf is one of the earliest examples of the fire-breathing, hoard-guarding dragon in Western literature, directly inspiring J.R.R. Tolkien’s Smaug.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Beowulf and the Dragon (Detailed)?
The moral centers on the concept of 'comitatus' or extreme loyalty. It teaches that a true leader fulfills their duty to protect their people until their very last breath, even when faced with certain death.
Why did the dragon attack Beowulf's kingdom?
The dragon was provoked when a runaway slave stole a single gem-studded goblet from its massive hidden hoard. Dragons in Germanic folklore were legendary for being obsessive protectors of treasure.
Who was the only warrior to stay and help Beowulf?
Wiglaf was the only one of the twelve companions who did not flee in terror. His loyalty earned him Beowulf's respect and the right to succeed him as the leader of the Geats.
What happened to Beowulf's sword, Naegling?
During the heat of the battle, the ancient sword Naegling snapped because Beowulf's strength was too great for the blade, and the dragon's scales were too thick for the iron to penetrate effectively.
How did Beowulf die in the story?
Beowulf died from a combination of the dragon's venomous bite and the grievous wounds sustained during the fight. He succumbed to the poison shortly after the dragon was defeated.
Where does the story of Beowulf take place?
The story is set in Scandinavia, specifically in Geatland (modern-day Sweden) during Beowulf's later years as king, long after his famous battles in Denmark.