Can you give and example of irony in Beowulf?

In the epic poem Beowulf, there are several instances of irony. One notable example is the moment when Beowulf defeats Grendel. Beowulf is a renowned hero, known for his strength and courage, and he is able to defeat the monstrous Grendel in single combat. However, the irony lies in the fact that Beowulf's victory ultimately leads to his own downfall. Grendel's mother, enraged by the death of her son, seeks revenge against Beowulf and ends up killing him.

Another instance of irony in Beowulf occurs when the dragon attacks the kingdom of the Geats. The dragon is a powerful and fearsome creature, and it is ultimately slain by Beowulf. However, the irony lies in the fact that Beowulf is mortally wounded in the battle and dies shortly after defeating the dragon. Beowulf's victory is ultimately a bittersweet moment, as he has saved his kingdom but at the cost of his own life.

Overall, the use of irony in Beowulf adds depth and complexity to the story, and it highlights the unpredictable and often tragic nature of events in the poem.