Anna's Coast Guard View of Beowulf's Arrival

As I snoozed off on the wall, still half-awake hoping my officers around me won’t notice, I felt the tremendous vibrations of the ocean-water churning. When I fully regained consciousness I saw a beastly thing I had never seen before! This ship, sailing towards our shore, was magnificent. I can only imagine how the fish getting tossed through the waves from it’s water-disturbers must have felt!

Completely awakened at this point, I clambered down from my perch. While I was climbing down, I began to think of the possible reasons they would come to a place like this, when we are in such a devastating situation due to that life-taker. Are they friends of that terrible beast? Do they not know of his wretched actions? Do they plan to, dare I say it, attack us? I stumbled up onto my horse, filled with anxiety.

When I arrive at the point where their ship is stationed, I am astonished at the beauty of it. And the armor of the men, it was glistening! Then I am reminded of my fears. What purpose do they have here, in the land of Dane? I withdraw my sword, radiant in the sun’s rays. I ask them of their meaning in arriving at this place. Are they friends or foes? I explain to them my longevity as watcher of the sea, hoping to maybe frighten them if they are enemies, and impress them if friends. Still astonished at their ship and armor, their bravery to come out in such openness, and the splendor of their leader, I confess to them that I have never seen such a feat, or such a magnificent captain.

This fearless man, his breastplate reflecting from that fire-ball, explains to me his motives. Their heritage is in Geatland. They are here to help us destroy the enemy! He boasts he can show King Hrothgar the way to ruin him, and I, surprising myself, say that I believe him. I tell them I can bring them to the King, for I know the way. I command my comrades to guard the splendorous water-carriage, full of excitement to hear more from these men on the ride to Herot Hall.