The Glory of the Dead quest serves as the epic climax to the Companions storyline in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Following the tragic death of Kodlak Whitemane, players must lead the remaining circle members on a sacred mission to honor their fallen Harbinger. Completing this quest not only resolves the ancient lycanthropy storyline but also grants players command over one of Skyrim's most legendary warrior factions.
Honoring Kodlak at the Skyforge
The quest begins in Whiterun immediately after Kodlak's funeral service at the Skyforge. Eorlund Gray-Mane asks you to retrieve the final fragment of Wuuthrad, the ancient battleaxe of Ysgramor. Once you deliver the fragment, Eorlund reforges the legendary weapon, granting you the tool required to unlock the tomb of the ancient Nord leader.
With Wuuthrad in hand, you must journey north toward Ysgramor's Tomb alongside Vilkas, Farkas, and Aela the Huntress. The journey provides an opportunity to prepare your character for challenging ghost encounters inside the burial grounds.
Navigating Ysgramor's Tomb
Upon entering Ysgramor's Tomb, you must place Wuuthrad into the hands of Ysgramor's statue to open the inner doors. As you venture deeper, the ghosts of ancient Companions will test your combat skills in tight corridors. Utilizing broad area-of-effect spells or heavy power attacks can help manage crowds of spectral warriors efficiently.
Along the way, your companions will step back one by one due to fatigue or personal doubts, leaving you to face the final chamber alone. Ensure your inventory is stocked with healing potions and fire-resistant gear before entering the burial altar.
Cleansing the Wolf Spirit
Inside the main burial chamber, you will find the ghost of Kodlak Whitemane resting near the Flame of the Harbinger. Throwing a Glenmoril Witch head into the flame summons Kodlak's wolf spirit, which you must defeat to cleanse his soul. Defeating the spirit frees Kodlak from Hircine's Hunting Grounds, allowing him to ascend to Sovngarde in peace.
After the spirit is defeated, Kodlak officially names you the new Harbinger of the Companions. You can also toss another witch head into the flame if you wish to cure your own lycanthropy at this point in the game.
Unlocking the Harbinger Rewards
Becoming the Harbinger brings significant rewards and new opportunities across Skyrim. You receive the Shield of Ysgramor and full access to the Jorrvaskr living quarters, including rare skill books and valuable crafting materials. Additionally, you can now recruit top Companions warriors as followers or marriage partners.
Finally, Eorlund Gray-Mane gains the ability to craft Skyforge Steel weapons and ancient Nord armor at the Skyforge. Taking on radiant quests from your fellow members allows you to fully cure Farkas and Vilkas of their lycanthropy as well.
