"Beowulf is to English what the Odyssey and Iliad are to Greek literature - the oldest example of vernacular literature of any substance not only in England but the whole of western Europe." "Since its rediscovery and the appearance of the first printed editions in the middle of the nineteenth century, this moving and dramatic epic poem has attracted considerable scholarly attention, and Professor Swanton is able to draw on this wealth of scholarship to present a considered and balanced introduction to the poem." "Explanatory notes, drawing on archaeological sources, expand the poet's more esoteric allusions and offer background information on contemporary manners and customs. A prose translation faces the text, which should be invaluable both to students and to the general reader."--BOOK JACKET.

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