Beowulf

Out from marshes, beneath misty tors,

Grendel came skulking, God’s wrath upon him.

The terrible ravager intended to steal

man-pieces in that mighty house.

He moved in darkness toward the drinking-hall …

Before Game of Thrones, The Lord of the Rings, and Wagner’s Ring Cycle, there was Beowulf, the original high-fantasy epic tale of heroes, monsters, dragons, and political upheaval.

In a new rendition of the Old English poem, Matthew Hutchinson shares a fresh and stirring adaption intended for anyone who loves bloody tales of adventure and courage. By preserving the rhythmic dynamism of the original language and combining the swashbuckling verve of the hero’s dual quests to save a kingdom and slay a dragon, Hutchinson provides energetic insight into this classic piece of English literature. Included are some thoughts on translating Beowulf, reflections on names mentioned in the poem, genealogical charts, and a list of suggested reading.

Whether you are new to the poem or an avid Beowulfian, you are sure to find pleasure in this moving translation, which combines the rugged alliterative measure of the original with the directness and accessibility of modern English.