Beowulf

Beowulf. The oldest and, arguably, the greatest epic in English literature’s vast history. Beowulf is an epic poem, originally written in Old English, that details the heroic exploits of the warrior, Beowulf, throughout his life. It represents the heroic ideal and the role of fate’s importance to the Old English people, while also addressing politics, war, old-age, kinsmanship, and fantasy. The depth of the poem, in both its poetry and narration, is incredible, …

…recognition of the depth that weaves and resonates throughout the Old English text of Beowulf. Through analysis of translations, the cumulative understanding of the earliest English epic, Beowulf, can only increase, even in a base with little-to-no Old English experience. As Old English becomes “older” English, it may one day fall upon the translations of Beowulf to solely defend the original text’s place as the earliest and greatest epic in English literature’s history.