We met the king of the Geats and of the Danes in the story. Who are they, and explain the king's responsibilities in this warrior Society.

The responsibilities of a warrior king are to support, protect, and lead their people. The Kiing of the Danes, Heremod, does not fit this description. He makes promises that he does not keep, and he is a tyrannical, cruel leader, who is described as evil. His son, Skyld, later becomes king in his stead. In the epic, Hrothgar is the current King of the Danes. He has been successful in gaining territory, and he has buit Heorot as a tribute to himself and his reign. When Hrothgar is unsuccessful in keeping his people safe from Grendel, he accepts Beowulf's help to end the slaughter.

Higlac (Hygelac) was the King of the Geats, Beowulf was his successor. Higlac was considered a great king, who with his warriors expanded their territory. He rewarded the triumphs of his warriors, and gave Beowulf half of his kingdom to honor his great victories.