from their pagan past.
             When news of the Danes' troubles reaches Geatland, Beowulf, thane of Hygelac, gathers
             fourteen of his strongest, bravest men to voyage across the seas to help Hrothgar and his people.
             Upon arriving, Beowulf and his men are greeted by a Danish coast guard sentinel. The sentinel is
             alarmed to see armed men approaching the Danish coast and directly asks Beowulf to state his
             business. The guard is clearly impressed by the Geat's armor and weapons and conveys his
             Beowulf informs the soldier that he and his men are followers of Hygelac from the clan of the
             Geats and explains that he is the son of Ecgtheow, a respected and renowned leader known
             throughout the land. Beowulf explains that he has come to help Hrothgar and the Danes. After
             learning that the Geat's intentions are noble, the guard agrees to escort the men to Hrothgar.
             Wulfgar, a Danish soldier and advisor to Hrothgar, interrupts the men's journey to see Hrothgar
             and interrogates them about their identity and intentions. Beowulf introduces himself and
             explains his purpose. Wulfgar, impressed by Beowulf's confidence and the appearance of his
             men, welcomes the visitors and encourages Hrothgar to meet them.
             While receiving Beowulf, Hrothgar explains that he remembers Beowulf as a boy and recounts
             several experiences shared with Beowulf''s father, Ecgtheow. Hrothgar views Beowulf's
             prescence as a blessing for the Danes because of his reputation as a great warrior and his noble
             ancestry. He offers treasures to Beowulf and the Geats if they can end Grendel's terror and return
             Heorot to its previous glory. Beowulf expresses his desire to challenge Grendel to a battle to the
             death and says he will trust in God and will thus refuse weapons or shields.
             Reassured by Beowulf's confidence, Hrothgar recalls further stories of Ecgtheow. He explains
             how while new to his throne he helped Ecgtheow avoid a battle by sending tr...