Overview

Beowulf follows the valiant hero of the Geats who comes to the rescue of King Hrothgar of the Danes. Plagued by the monstrous Grendel who terrorizes the great hall Heorot, Beowulf defeats Grendel and his vengeful mother with legendary strength and a mighty sword. Later, as king, Beowulf confronts a dragon threatening his kingdom, resulting in a fierce battle where only his kinsman Wiglaf stands by him. This timeless poem weaves a complex tapestry of lineage, loyalty, and heroism, structured with a symmetry that mirrors Beowulf's battles and the societies he influences, encapsulating the essence of epic storytelling. This edition of Beowulf includes a prose translation by Ernest J. B. Kirtlan and a verse translation by John Lesslie Hall. The historical importance of Beowulf in both prose and verse forms is significant as it offers insights into the adaptability and timeless appeal of the narrative. The act of translating this foundational text of English literature involves not only linguistic skill but also cultural interpretation, bridging the gap between ancient and modern sensibilities. Verse translations connect contemporary readers with the poetic traditions of the past, while prose versions often expand the reach of Beowulf, democratizing access to this epic tale. Each form of translation plays a role in the ongoing life of the text, highlighting different facets of its artistry and story while ensuring its survival and relevance across generations. This case laminate collector's edition includes a Victorian inspired dust-jacket.

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9781778784682

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"John Lesslie Hall (March 2, 1856 - February 23, 1928), also known as J. Lesslie Hall, was an American literary scholar and poet known for his translation of Beowulf.Born in Richmond, Virginia, the son of Jacob Hall, Jr., Hall attended Randolph-Macon College and received a PhD from Johns Hopkins University. He taught English history and literature at the College of William & Mary from 1888 to 1928 (becoming head of the English department and dean of the faculty, and receiving an honorary LLD in 1921); he ""was one of the original members of the faculty which reopened the college in 1888."" He was also concerned with the history of his native Virginia; he frequently spoke at Jamestown and ""compared Jamestown's Great Charter of 1618 and the assembly of 1619 with the Magna Charta at Runnymede.""In 1889 he married Margaret Fenwick Farland, of Tappahannock, Virginia. Their children were Channing Moore Hall, John L. Hall Jr., Joseph Farland Hall, and Sarah Moore Hall. Ernest J. B. Kirtlan was a translator who also converted other well-known works to modern English prose, such as Sir Gawain and the Green Knight."

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