Beowulf
How to effectively present an epic poem from the Anglo-Saxon period in 7 literary elements
- Title
- Genre
- Structure and plot
- Settings
- Characters
- Narrative techniques
- Themes
LnT suggests
LnT A guide to the epic poem: The Epic Poem
LnT A video about the epic poem as a genre: "Learn exactly how to recognize an epic poem"
LnT A guide to Anglo-Saxon literature: Anglo-Saxon literature
LnT reading
1. "Grendel" by John Gardner:
- Author: John Gardner
- Title: Grendel
- Publication Year: 1971
- Summary: A retelling of the "Beowulf" epic from the perspective of the monster Grendel. It delves into Grendel's existential struggles and interactions with human society, exploring themes of isolation, the meaning of life, and the ambiguity of good and evil.
2. "The Mere Wife" by Maria Dahvana Headley:
- Author: Maria Dahvana Headley
- Title: The Mere Wife
- Publication Year: 2018
- Summary: A modern retelling of the "Beowulf" epic, set in contemporary America. It reimagines the story from multiple perspectives, including Grendel's mother and a veteran named Will. The novel explores themes of class, race, and motherhood.
Bibliography
Niles, John D. "Beowulf: The Poem and Its Tradition" (1983)
Author: John D. Niles
Title: Beowulf: The Poem and Its Tradition
Publication Year: 1983
Summary: This book explores the epic poem "Beowulf" and its historical and literary context, shedding light on its tradition and significance in English literature.
Fisher, Matthew A. "Working at the Crossroads: Tolkien, St Augustine, and the Beowulf-Poet"Author: Matthew A. Fisher
Title: Working at the Crossroads: Tolkien, St Augustine, and the Beowulf-Poet
Source: 'The Lord of the Rings' 1954-2004, Hammond and Scull, ed., pages 217-230
Summary: Fisher's essay discusses the connections between J.R.R. Tolkien's works, the writings of St. Augustine, and the poet of "Beowulf." It explores the intersection of these influences.
Bjork, Robert E., and John D. Niles, ed. "A 'Beowulf' Handbook" (1997)
Editors: Robert E. Bjork and John D. Niles
Title: A 'Beowulf' Handbook
Publication Year: 1997
Summary: This handbook, edited by Bjork and Niles, provides comprehensive insights into the world of "Beowulf," offering critical analysis, historical context, and various perspectives on the epic poem.
Shippey, T. A. "Beowulf: The Critical Heritage" (1998)
Author: T. A. Shippey
Title: Beowulf: The Critical Heritage
Publication Year: 1998
Summary: Shippey's work explores the critical reception of "Beowulf" over time, highlighting how the poem has been interpreted and analyzed by various scholars and critics.
Jack, George. "Beowulf" (2013)
Author: George Jack
Title: Beowulf
Publication Year: 2013