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sections. Each section is written in a slightly different style and tone, some appear to be written with conflicting worldviews, and several inconsistencies in the character of Beowulf may be detected. The first section spans from the beginning of the book up to line 1250. Within this section, Beowulf hears of great calamity among the Danes and travels there to avail them. Upon arrival he is informed of a terrible monster, named Grendel, who had been attacking nightly. Beowulf promises to defeat this monster and subsequently enters into combat with it. By the great power of his grip, he subdues the monster, forcing it to flee without its arm. The monster returns to its swamp and dies. Beowulf is hailed as a mighty hero. The second section spans from line 1251 up to line 1698. This section includes the second great feat performed by Beowulf; he dives to the bottom of the monster's swamp on a mission to kill Grendel's mother, who seeks to avenge the death of her son by hideous murders. In her underwater hall, Beowulf's sword fails him. Looking around, he sees another sword on a wall scabbard. This he successfully utilizes to slay her, breaking the power of the monsters and freeing the swamp from the curse of evil. He returns to the Danish king and there is gift-giving and celebration. The third section spans from line 1699 to line 2229. This section begins with the Danish king giving Beowulf a long, fatherly admonition, lavishing him with esteem and wise council. He makes a great speech, philosophizing about the generosity of God to grant kings peaceful kingdoms, the fleeting duration of life, and the great worth of heavenly treasure. Lavish gifts are awarded Beowulf, who thereafter returns to his native Geatland. Various members of the royal court are described in great detail, the character of each being keenly examined. Beowulf gives generous gifts and is granted a portion of the kingdom from the Geatish king. Both men reign in peace over their provinces. The fourth and final section spans from line 2230 to the end of the book. This last section is markedly different from the rest in that it depicts Beowulf as being now an old man, finally a king, having inherited the kingdom from the late Geatish king. This last section tells of Beowulf's final feat of strength and bravery. A grand store of treasure is found to be hidden within a cave inhabited by a terrible dragon. When the dragon discovers that a human had entered its den, the creature sets Geatland ablaze

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