Hrothgar was a mighty warrior in his day, at the time when the epic story in Beowulf takes place he is an old king, no longer able to defend his people against the marauding demon Grendel.
Step-by-step explanation:
Although Hrothgar was a powerful warrior in his day, at the time during the epic story in Beowulf catches place he is a magnificent king, no great ability to defend his people against the thieving beast Grendel. Hrothgar is the king of the Spear-Danes when Beowulf comes in their land, ready to meet the demon Grendel. We're going to let that sentence sink in while you wonder at how many modern heroes were way back when.
Many years earlier, Hrothgar paid money to the Wulfings to resolve a blood fight they had with Ecgtheow, Beowulf's father. As a result, Beowulf senses some affection toward Hrothgar.