4.51k reviews for:

Beowulf

Anonymous

3.42 AVERAGE

adventurous dark emotional inspiring medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
reflective fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

It's good!

Extremely poetic (even though it's a prose translation) of Beowulf by early Tolkien. Extensive commentary that I would find more useful if I were reading it in the Old English alongside the translation. Bonus of some stories and songs written by Tolkien inspired by Beowulf. Begs to be read out loud.

Beowulf is a masterpiece of ancient literature that stands the test of time. This epic poem is a thrilling tale of courage, honor, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. The story follows the heroic Beowulf as he battles the fearsome monster Grendel, Grendel's vengeful mother, and later, a deadly dragon.

What makes Beowulf so extraordinary is not just the action-packed narrative but also its deep exploration of themes like fate, loyalty, and the transient nature of life. The poetic language, filled with rich imagery and alliteration, creates a mesmerizing rhythm that pulls the reader into a world of legends and heroes.

The character of Beowulf himself is compelling—an embodiment of the ideal warrior, whose bravery and strength are matched by his wisdom and humility. The poem also delves into the complexities of leadership and legacy, offering timeless insights that are as relevant today as they were in the time of the Anglo-Saxons.

Beowulf is more than just a story; it's a window into a bygone era and a cornerstone of literary history. Whether you're reading it for the first time or returning to its pages, this epic never fails to inspire and captivate. A must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of storytelling and the richness of our cultural heritage.
adventurous mysterious tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: N/A
Loveable characters: N/A
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

And now to share some of my favourite lines from this translation of this epic written a millennia ago:

Anyone who fucks with the Geats? Bro, they have to fuck with me

Bro, fate can fuck you up

Brass balls if nothing else

Beowulf gave zero shits

If you want to win you have to forget you’re afraid to die

On my quest to read the big epics the first one I understood without the Wikipedia explanation. Quite a standard hero's tale but with enough narrative force to make it interesting.
challenging inspiring reflective fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
challenging dark tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No