Product Description

"Beowulf" is the oldest example of vernacular literature of any substance in Western Europe. Since its rediscovery and the appearance of the first printed editions in the middle of the 19th century, it has attracted considerable scholarly attention. This edition contains explanatory notes, drawing on archaeological sources, which expand on the poet's more esoteric allusions and offer background information on contemporary manners and customs. A prose translation faces the text, which should be of use to both students and the general reader.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #182852 in Books
• Published on: 1997-05-08
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 224 pages

Customer Reviews

Swanton's translation is very readable and largely literal.
Swanton's translation of 'Beowulf' is very readable and largely literal so it is ideal for both ordinary readers and students studying the piece.

The heroic storyline is faithfully conveyed in prose, while a sense of the poetry and reflective mood of the original is also retained. Swanton's translation appears side-by-side with the Anglo-Saxon text allowing easy reference and understanding.

Swanton draws on the considerable critical attention this moving and dramatic poem has received since its rediscovery in the nineteenth century, to provide an interesting and balanced introduction and useful, comprehensive notes throughout the piece.

As Swanton states, Beowulf is 'the oldest piece of vernacular literature of any substance not only in England but the whole of Europe, it breathes the true spirit of the northern Heroic Age' and this is an extremely valuable and enjoyable translation of it.