So far I've read the back cover and part of the introduction...did you know that we're not completely sure when, by whom or why Beowulf was composed? A single manuscript survived the destructive force that was Henry the VIII during his rampage of terror through English monasteries. Impressive.
"Beowulf is the earliest extant poem in a modern European language. It was composed in England four centuries before the Norman Conquest. As a social document this great epic poem is invaluable--reflecting a feudal, newly Christian world of heroes and monsters, blood and victory and death. As of work of art it is quite unique; Beowulf rings with a beauty, power, and artistry that have kept it alive for more than twelve centuries."--Robert P. Creed
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