King Hrothgar, the son of Halfdane, is known as the ruler of the Danes. His wife, Queen Wealhtheow sits alongside him. After inheriting the throne, Hrothgar has become a powerful ruler. He is the one who has built the mead-hall Heorot, which has unfortunately become Grendel's playground. Beowulf travels to Denmark to help this king in his time of need. Hrothgar enlists his help to destroy the vile creature. Hrothgar, as a way of showing thanks, repays the warrior Beowulf handsomely, with treasure:

The fortunes of war favored Hrothgar.
friends and kinsmen flocked to his ranks,
young followers, a force that grew
to be a mighty army. (64-67)