The main conflict in Beowulf is that of the human hero versus the monster. Although some degree of intelligence is required of the hero in planning tactics, the conflict is overwhelmingly physical; the hero overpowers the monster by means of strength and martial prowess.
There are three major fights of this type in the poem. First, the monster Grendel has been attacking King Hrothgar's mead hall, Heorot, and killing the Danish warriors inhabiting it. Beowulf and his men come to the defense of the Danes and eventually Beowulf triumphs over Grendel in single combat.
Next, Grendel's mother takes revenge for the death of her son by attacking Beowulf and the Danes. Beowulf tracks her back to her undersea lair and eventually decapitates her with his sword.
The final conflict involves Beowulf defending his people from a dragon. In the battle, Beowulf succeeds in killing the dragon but dies from his wounds.
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