~ Collector's Edition ~ Laminated Hardback with Jacket ~
In a world of ancient kingdoms and monstrous threats, a valiant hero rises to defend his people and secure his legacy. Beowulf, a warrior of unmatched strength and courage, answers the call to aid a beleaguered kingdom plagued by a fearsome creature, Grendel. His journey unfolds through epic battles, fierce loyalty, and the timeless clash between good and evil, capturing the spirit of heroic adventure. This enduring tale, woven in both verse and prose, explores themes of bravery, honor, and the fleeting nature of glory.
As one of the oldest surviving works of English literature, Beowulf offers a rare glimpse into the heroic culture and values of early medieval Europe. This dual presentation in prose and verse enriches its timeless narrative, blending poetic artistry with accessible storytelling. Revered for its vivid imagery and exploration of bravery, loyalty, and mortality, the epic has profoundly influenced Western literary tradition. Through the translations of Kirtlan (Prose) and Hall (Verse), readers experience a dynamic retelling that bridges ancient and modern sensibilities.
Ernest J. B. Kirtlan was a literary figure active in the early 20th century, known for his prose translation of Beowulf. His rendition aimed to make the epic accessible to modern readers by presenting it in contemporary English prose. Beyond Beowulf, Kirtlan also translated works like Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of medieval literature.
John Lesslie Hall, born on March 2, 1856, in Richmond, Virginia, was a distinguished American literary scholar and poet. He earned his Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University and served as a professor of English history and literature at the College of William & Mary from 1888 to 1928, eventually becoming head of the English department and dean of the faculty. Hall is renowned for his 1892 verse translation of Beowulf, which closely follows the original text and employs alliteration to capture the essence of the Old English epic.In addition to Beowulf, Hall translated other Anglo-Saxon works, including Judith and Phœnix, and authored original poems in the style of Old English verse. His scholarly contributions extended to the history of Virginia, where he frequently spoke at Jamestown, drawing parallels between its early charters and the Magna Charta. Hall's dedication to literature and history left a lasting impact on the academic community until his passing on February 23, 1928.