Hrothgar was a good king for a number of reasons. Firstly, Hrothgar knew the importance of prosperity and worked for his people to provide them safety and good quality lifestyle. He made Meadow Hall which was to remain a wonder of the world. Moreover, he was mature enough to realize that he cannot take on Grendel alone by himself.
What qualities does Hrothgar possess that make him a good king?
Scyld was the great-grandfather of Hrothgar, who was the king of the Danes in the epic poem Beowulf.
Kings in Beowulf were very powerful due to the relationship they had with their warriors known as comitatus. The exchange between Hrothgar and his warriors was made up of how Hrothgar would give them shelter and gfood, and the warriors would keep him safe and protect him.
'Beowulf' is the epic story that tells us the tale of hero Beowulf, the strongest and bravest of them all and how he defeats monsters and becomes a king. Among several characters we will also meet Hygelac, his uncle and king of the Geats, the one who opens his kingdom's doors and his heart to Beowulf.
Hrothgar, king of the Danes, is a prime example of a great king. He also foreshadows Beowulf`s death in the Hall of Heorot, the story's most important speech. See the related links section below for an analysis of the speech.
The main kings mentioned in Beowulf are Hrothgar, king of the Danes, and Beowulf, prince of the Geats who later becomes king. Other kings mentioned include Hygelac, Beowulf's uncle and king of the Geats, and Hrethel, Hygelac's father.
King Hrothgar
He is the Danish King.
Grendel avoids attacking Hrothgar because Hrothgar is protected by a powerful magical charm that prevents Grendel from harming him or entering his mead hall, Heorot. This charm comes from Hrothgar's ancestor, who made a pact with Grendel's ancestor to ensure their safety.
King Hrothgar called upon Beowulf to help him defeat the monster Grendel, who was terrorizing his kingdom of the Danes. Hrothgar had heard of Beowulf's legendary strength and bravery and believed he was the only one capable of defeating Grendel.
King Hrothgar gave Beowulf gifts such as a mail shirt, a helmet, and a sword as a token of gratitude and admiration for his victory over Grendel.
Scyld, the great-grandfather of Hrothgar, was the legendary king of the Danes. He is described in the Old English epic poem "Beowulf" as the founder of the Danish royal lineage.