Beowulf Character Charts

Beowulf

Geatish warrior, hero. He defeats Grendel, Grendel's mother, a dragon and becomes a wise and respected ruler. He is from Geatland, an area of Sweden.

King Hrothgar

King of the Danes (Denmark). He is prosperous until his kingdom is terrorized by Grendel. He serves as a father and role model for Beowulf. Hrothgar builds Heorot, a great mead hall (party room).

Grendel

A monster descended from Cain. Grendel kills and eats Hrothgar's warriors and terrorizes the land

Breca

Beowulf's childhood friend. Beowulf defeated him in a swimming match and tells of the tale.

Grendel's mother

A nameless swamp hag, she seeks revenge.

Wealtheow

Hrothgar's wife, queen of the Danes.

Shield Sheafson

Legendary king from whom Hrothgar is descended.

Beow

Second king in Danish lineage. Son of Shield Sheafson.

Halfdane

Father of Hrothgar, Heorogar, Halga. Succeeded Beow as ruler of the Danes.

Hrethric

Hrothgar's elder son, supposed to inherit the Danish throne.

Hrothmund

Second of Hrothgar's sons.

Hrothulf

Hrothgar's nephew. He betrays Hrethric to gain the Danish throne.

Hygelac

Beowulf's uncle, king of the Geats. Happy when Beowulf returns to Denmark.

Hygd

Hygelac's beautiful and intelligent wife.

Whiglaf

Loyal friend and warrior to Beowulf. Helps Beowulf fight the dragon when all others run away. Proves a logical successor to Beowulf.

Ecgtheow

Beowulf's father who is dead when the story begins.

King Hrethel

Geatish king, took Beowulf in after the death of Ecgtheow.

Unferth

Warrior, jealous of Beowulf's successes.

Sigemund

From Norse mythology, known for slaying a dragon. His story foreshadows Beowulf's battle with the dragon.

King Heremond

Evil king of legend. Provides contrast to Beowulf.

Queen Modthryth

Evil queen of legend who punishes anyone who glances at her the wrong way. She provides contrast to Hygd's kind nature.