Hrothgar should feel confident in Beowulf's abilities because Beowulf understands what he is going up against. He has heard all of the stories of what Grendal has done to the soldiers and civilians in Herot. He still has much more confidence than all of Hrothgar's men. He also has a previous history with demons. "I drove / Five great giants into chains" (153-154). Beowulf has never faced a demon with as much strength as Grendal, but if anyone were to kill Grendel, it would be the mighty Beowulf! Beowulf was renown for his great ability to fight off any monster that confronts him. "Other monsters crowded around me, / Continually attacking. I treated them politely, / Offering the edge of my razor-sharp sword." (292-294).
Another key trait that Beowulf has is that he is confident, but he is not over confident. He is understanding that he may not survive the fight against Grendel. "My purpose was this: to win the good will / Of your people or die in battle" (366-367). Beowulf understands his mission and knows it may not be a success. He fights for the people and will die for the people, just like a true hero. Hrothgar should not be over confident in Beowulf's abilities but he must believe in him.
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