BEOWULF

Beowulf , translated by R.M. Liuzza, is a fresh and accessible version of the legendary Old English epic poem, widely considered one of the greatest works of literature. Liuzza’s translation maintains the spirit and power of the original text while making it accessible to modern readers through clear, evocative language.

The poem recounts the heroic deeds of Beowulf, a warrior who battles the monstrous Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and a fearsome dragon. Through these epic confrontations, the poem explores themes of heroism, fate, loyalty, and the clash between good and evil. Beowulf’s journey from a young warrior to a wise, aging king is a meditation on the fleeting nature of life and the legacy of one’s actions.

Liuzza’s translation is both faithful to the original Old English and readable for contemporary audiences, offering helpful annotations and contextual explanations to enrich the reader’s understanding of the poem’s cultural and historical significance. This edition of “Beowulf” is ideal for students, scholars, and general readers alike, offering a rich introduction to one of the most enduring and influential works in Western literature.