Unferth, for example, is a minor monster, a kin-killer and argumentative, he is not with the program, he is discordant. There have to be rules or warfare will not be socially constructive. Beowulf is well-mannered and only goes to battle with someone's permission or if one of his band is attacked. He plays by the rules. Got to have rules.
Wealth brings social cohesion and is a means of rewarding loyalty.
It is expected that the guy up top his wealth around focusing on the brave and loyal. Dragons prevent the dissemination of wealth. A few well placed dragons and Geatland would come to a stop. Dragons could be seen as bad, but deadly and accomplished warrior-leaders. Dragons and Grendels could be seen as holding some virtues.