Beowulf has all the traits of an idealistic Anglo-Saxon hero. His physical strength is equal to that of 30 ordinary men. His bravery is superhuman; he doesn't hesitate for a moment to come to King Hrothgar's aid and kill monstrous Grendel, as well as his mother. Still, he is loyal to his own uncle and king Hygelac, as well as Hrothgar, and has no aspirations to take their throne, even though he has the people's support. Although a great hero of superhuman strength, he believes in destiny ("Wyrd"), as a supreme embodiment of god's will. When setting out to fight Grendel, he knows he might die, but still wants to pay respect to his king Hygelac:
"To Hygelac send, if Hild should take me,best of war-weeds, warding my breast,armor excellent, heirloom of Hretheland work of Wayland. Fares Wyrd as she must."