King

In Germanic society, the king was the leader of a nation-tribe. He had a duty to protect the people from disorder and outside harm, as well as a duty to distribute gifts, traditionally of silver and gold, to worthy recipients. There are several kings mentioned in Beowulf, the most important of whom is Hrothgar, king of the Danes. Beowulf becomes a king some point after killing Grendel's mother but before he encounters the dragon.

Kings mentioned in Beowulf include (in alphabetical order)

Beowulf

Heremod

Hrothgar

Hygelac

Scyld