A quick reference to Beowulf and its cultural background, this book offers a clear discussion intended to convey factual information rather than engage in cultural controversy. In addition to the expected material on Beowulf's arrival, the three battles, and his death, Staver (an independent scholar) includes chapters on the literary techniques in the poem, religion, Anglo Saxon culture, and modern adaptations of Beowolf….Nonspecialists and teachers who need a quick reference to various parts of Beowulf will appreciate this book….Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates and general readers.

Choice

[O]ffers the high school student or interested lay reader a well-balanced introduction to ^IBeowulf^I…

Medium Aevum

[W]ell organised, properly refereed, doing what it does very well, and pointing students on to full-scale scholarly material …

English

A 'must' for any in-depth literary collection.

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