Beowulf
by Dover PublicationsOne of the oldest pieces of English literature, Beowulf and its portrayal of heroism influences society even today. Iconic heroes like Superman mirror the character and decision-making styles of Beowulf; even Tolkien took inspiration from this narrative poem. Though Beowulf’s author is unknown, the story tells readers much about Anglo-Saxon history, culture, and values. Modern readers will find the epic poem surprisingly approachable and enjoy noting literary devices like symbolism and alliteration, for which the poem is famous.
One of the most universally studied of the English classics, Beowulf is considered the finest heroic poem in Old English. Written ten centuries ago, it celebrates the character and exploits of Beowulf, a young nobleman of the Geats, a people of southern Sweden. Beowulf first rescues the royal house of Denmark from two marauding monsters, then returns to rule his people for 50 years, ultimately losing his life in a battle to defend the Geats from a dragon's rampage. The poem combines mythical elements, Christian and pagan sensibilities, and actual historical figures and events in a narrative that ranges from vivid descriptions of fierce fighting and detailed portrayals of court life to earnest considerations of social and moral dilemmas. Originally written in Old English verse, it is presented here in an authoritative prose translation by R. K. Gordon.
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Paperback
Dover Publications
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