A Companion to Beowulf

(Hardback)

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Description

Overviews the background, plot, themes, and language of Beowulf Perhaps the most important work written in Old English, Beowulf tells of a world very different from our own. While the history and culture behind the poem make it challenging for modern audiences, its story of war, violence, and heroism remains relevant to today's readers. Though largely neglected until the 20th century, Beowulf is now widely studied by school students and undergraduates. In addition, it continues to shape contemporary popular culture. This companion overviews the poem and its legacy. The first part of the book provides information of interest to a wide range of readers, while the second covers more specialized topics. Thus the initial chapters review the merits of different translations and offer a detailed plot summary, while later chapters discuss the poem's language and style, its treatment of religion, its relation to Anglo-Saxon culture, and its legacy in popular culture. One of the greatest Beowulf scholars was J.R.R. Tolkien, and the book gives special attention to his use of the poem in his own fiction. School students, undergraduates, and general readers will find this book a valuable guide to one of the most challenging yet enduring works of English literature.; Accessible to school students and general readers; Provides a detailed plot summary; Discusses the poem's background, style, and language; Discusses the poem's lasting influence on contemporary popular culture, including its influence on Tolkien

Reviews

A quick reference to Beowulf and its cultural background, this book offers a clear discussion intended to convey factual information rather than engage in cultural controversy. In addition to the expected material on Beowulf's arrival, the three battles, and his death, Staver (an independent scholar) includes chapters on the literary techniques in the poem, religion, Anglo Saxon culture, and modern adaptations of Beowolf.Nonspecialists and teachers who need a quick reference to various parts of Beowulf will appreciate this book.Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates and general readers. * Choice *
[O]ffers the high school student or interested lay reader a well-balanced introduction to ^IBeowulf^I * Medium Aevum *
[W]ell organised, properly refereed, doing what it does very well, and pointing students on to full-scale scholarly material * English *
A 'must' for any in-depth literary collection. * Library Bookwatch *

Author Bio

RUTH JOHNSTON STAVER is an independent scholar who specializes in Old English language and literature. She has extensive experience teaching Advanced Placement English Literature and has published on such topics as historical linguistics.