The Origins of Beowulf by Sam Newton
A detailed and passionate argument suggesting that Beowulf originated in the pre-Viking kingdom of 8th-century East Anglia. Where did Beowulf, unique and thrilling example of an Old English epic poem come from? In whose hall did the poem's maker first tell the tale? The poem exists now in just one manuscript, but careful study of the literary and historical associations reveals striking details which lead Dr Newton to claim, as he pieces together the various clues, a specific origin for the poem. Dr Newton suggests that references in Beowulf to the heroes whose names are listed in Anglo-Saxon royal genealogies indicate that such Northern dynastic concerns are most likely to have been fostered in the kingdom of East Anglia. He supports his thesis with evidence drawn from East Anglianarchaeology, hagiography and folklore. His argument, detailed and passionate, offers the exciting possibility that he has discovered the lost origins of the poem in the pre-Viking kingdom of 8th-century East Anglia. SAMNEWTON was awarded his Ph.D. for work on Beowulf.
A thoroughly plausible scenario for the poet's interest in affairs long ago and far away * TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT *
Persuasive.. exciting. -- MICHAEL WOOD
Cogent and fascinating attempt to place Beowulf in an 8c East Anglian context - an important book. -- Andy Orchard Toronto
Persuasive.. exciting. -- MICHAEL WOOD
Cogent and fascinating attempt to place Beowulf in an 8c East Anglian context - an important book. -- Andy Orchard Toronto
| SKU | Unavailable |
| ISBN 13 | 9780859914727 |
| ISBN 10 | 0859914720 |
| Title | The Origins of Beowulf |
| Author | Sam Newton |
| Condition | Unavailable |
| Binding Type | Paperback |
| Publisher | Boydell & Brewer Ltd |
| Year published | 1994-12-08 |
| Number of pages | 212 |
| Cover note | Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary. |
| Note | Unavailable |