Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, "Bent, James" to "Bibirine" by Various

3. Richly rewarded by Hrothgar, Beowulf returns to his native land. He

is welcomed by Hygelac. and relates to him the story of his adventures, with some details not contained in the former narrative. The king bestows on him lands and honours, and during the reigns of Hygelac and his son Heardred he is the greatest man in the kingdom. When Heardred is killed in battle with the Swedes, Beowulf becomes king in his stead.