The elder isn't in a swamp. If you are just seeking out the elder you might want to avoid swamps beyond scouting the edges for resources and marking any crypts you find.

Frankly if you are in level 3 bronze you should be ok.

Well remake your stuff is one option.

Use the console for God mode is another.

You can ask others to join your game and help you.

Troll armor does have a stealth bonus but I am not a stealth guy personally so not sure how effective it might be.