Beowulf: A New Translation

This is the story of the heroic Beowulf , and his timeless story is stark in its simplicity, made sonorous by the poetic reading given by Seamus Heaney. It is, in its simple narrative, a story that was meant to be read aloud. After all, between the seventh and the tenth centuries, few people could read.

Seamus Heaney gives a remarkable reading, his soft brogue and cadence capturing the dark, epic mood of the piece. His verse translation gives the story an accessibility that should make it a much more enjoyable experience for many who may have shied away from this early English work.

What is there not to like about this story? It is about a hero who vanquishes monsters and lives to fight another day in the quintessential battle between good and evil. Its message, undoubtedly relevant when written, is still relevant today. Those who are new to this work should consider purchasing the audio cd and listening to Seamus Heaney's rendition of this ancient work.


An eloquent reading of a fine translation   October 5, 2000
 24 out of 26 found this review helpful

For anyone struggling with the translated text, this recording is the perfect companion and assistant. Unabridged, it takes us from the first coming of Grendel to the mead hall, right through to the glorious ending. Its obvious where Tolkien got his ideas for Smaug in The Hobbit isn't it?