Beowulf
An individual who is seen as both a hero and a human. He is a warrior of Hydelac's from the Geatish Kingdom who is the strongest of men, mighty and noble and the hero that saves Herot and defeats the mighty attacks of Grendel and his mother.
Grendel
A demon descended from Cain who attacks the inhabitants of Herot. Grendel is very ruthless and strong and destroys anything that is in his path. Grendel is immune against battle swords; he had an enchantment against the edges of weapons.
Grendel's Mother
Unnamed swamp-hag who returns to Herot to seek vengeance for the death of her son, Grendel.
Hrothgar
King of the Danes who has won many battles and willingly obeyed by his friends and family. Hrothgar built the mead-hall and handed out gold and treasure at huge feasts. He is also a wise and aged ruler whose kingdom is attacked by the demon, Grendel.
Wealhtheow
Queen of the Spear Danes and wife of Hrothgar.
Unferth
Warrior and tribe member of the Spear Danes and challenges Beowulf's boast.
Wiglaf
A young kinsman and retainer of Beowulf who helps him in the fight against the dragon while all of the other warriors run away.
Sheaf
Lombardic King; appeared mysteriously as a child, coming out of the sea in am empty boat. Had a son who became a legendary king named Shield,
Shield
A legendary king who was the son of Sheaf that died in great battle. When he died he was laid on a well-built ship surrounded by gold and treasure from distant lands. He had a son sent by God named Grain.
Grain
Son of Shield sent by God to comfort the people-to keep them from fear; ruled the Danish Kingdom a long time after his father's death.
Healfdane
Son of grain, fierce in battle, ruled the Danish kingdom until he was old and had four children (Heorogar, Hrothgar, Halga the Good and a daughter who married Onela, King of the Swedes)
Hygelac
King of Geats, uncle of Beowulf and father of Heardred.
Wulfgar
From the Wendla tribe, Hrothgar's messenger, warrior known for his fighting and wisdom.
Sigemund
King who slayed dragons