King Hrothgar

"Hrothgar is the king of the Spear-Danes when Beowulf arrives in their land, ready to fight the demon Grendel. Many years earlier, Hrothgar paid money to the Wulfings to resolve a blood feud they had with Ecgtheow, Beowulf's father. As a result, Beowulf feels some loyalty toward Hrothgar.

Major Events

 * Hrothgar builds the beautiful and lavishly decorated Herot Hall.
 * Hrothgar's hall is continually attacked by the demon Grendel. Hrothgar and his people must abandon Herot at night to avoid Grendel's attacks.
 * Hrothgar meets Beowulf, a Geatish warrior who has decided to take on Grendel.
 * He generously rewards Beowulf for killing Grendel.
 * Hrothgar is grieved to learn that Grendel's Mother has killed his friend Aeschere, but he rejoices when he hears that Beowulf has killed Grendel's mother.
 * Hrothgar rewards Beowulf again, praises him, and even adopts him as a foster-son.
 * Hrothgar says goodbye to Beowulf.