contrast beowulf and hermod. how does the contrast help define beowulf's character?

Apparently Hermod was not a great king. He was prideful and nasty to his subjects. Much of Hermod's character is detailed by Hrothgar in his farewell speech. Hrothgar warns Beowulf of the "destruction and slaughter" of Hermod's reign (1712). Hrothgar warns Beowulf not to dishonour the confidence of his own people. By this time Beowulf's reputation is being established. After he becomes king Beowulf proves to be honourable to his people. His subjects act in love and loyalty. Unlike Hermod, Beowulf is remembered as a great warrior king rather than the warrior tyrant that was Hermod.