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A review by old_odd_biscuit
Beowulf by
3.0
Stephen Mitchell's translation of Beowulf enjoyable and accessible. I read it alongside two other translations for comparison: one in verse by J. Lesslie Hall and one in prose by Ernest J. B. Kirtlan. I also listened to the audio book of another verse translation by Francis B Gummere. Mitchell's is the easiest to read for the casual reader.
Hall and Gummere seem to lean more towards the rhythm and shape of the original Anglo Saxon, making you accept archaic word order that can take adjusting to. Stephen Mitchell is noticeably more modern at the expense of such accuracy. It would take someone more attuned to poetry than me to say if his rhythm still echoes the original in any way.
As to the story content, it's wonderful. Recommended if you enjoy ancient legends and authentic glimpses at past cultures. The emphasis on gift-giving reminded me of Homer, as does obviously the notions of fame and honour in battle. I does interest me in Beowulf that in this very brutal, battle-hard culture, the idea of kindness is prized so highly. It's very intriguing and leaves me wanting to know more about this culture.
And if only I had the time and opportunities to learn Old English and read the poem in the original!
Hall and Gummere seem to lean more towards the rhythm and shape of the original Anglo Saxon, making you accept archaic word order that can take adjusting to. Stephen Mitchell is noticeably more modern at the expense of such accuracy. It would take someone more attuned to poetry than me to say if his rhythm still echoes the original in any way.
As to the story content, it's wonderful. Recommended if you enjoy ancient legends and authentic glimpses at past cultures. The emphasis on gift-giving reminded me of Homer, as does obviously the notions of fame and honour in battle. I does interest me in Beowulf that in this very brutal, battle-hard culture, the idea of kindness is prized so highly. It's very intriguing and leaves me wanting to know more about this culture.
And if only I had the time and opportunities to learn Old English and read the poem in the original!