Beowulf - Beowulf is a the hero of the story, who fights the devil Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and a dragon. Beowulf’s boasts and characteristics reveal him to be the strongest and greatest warrior in his time.
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King Hrothgar - The king of the Danes. Hrothgar enjoys military success and prosperity until Grendel terrorizes his realm. He is an honest and generous ruler. He is loved by his people.
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Grendel - A demon descended from Cain, Grendel kills Hrothgar’s warriors in the king’s mead-hall, Heriot. He brought darkness upon Heriot. Grendel was killed by Beowulf.
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Grendel’s mother - Grendel's mother terrors Heriot is explained by her desire for vengeance on the death of her son. She kills a warrior, " One of Hrothgar most valuable warriors". Beowulf kills her.
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The dragon - Beowulf’s fight with the dragon constitutes the third and final part of the epic. The dragon causes Beowulf's death.
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