Beowulf: A Translation and Commentary, Together with Sellic Spell

Name: Beowulf: A Translation and Commentary, Together with Sellic Spell
SKU: 9780007590094
Price: 680.00 EGP
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Book Summary

The translation of Beowulf by J.R.R. Tolkien was an early work, very distinctive in its mode, completed in 1926: he returned to it later to make hasty corrections, but seems never to have considered its publication. This edition is twofold, for there exists an illuminating commentary on the text of the poem by the translator himself, in the written form of a series of lectures given at Oxford in the 1930s; and from these lectures a substantial selection has been made, to form also a commentary on the translation in this book. From his creative attention to detail in these lectures there arises a sense of the immediacy and clarity of his vision. It is as if he entered into the imagined past: standing beside Beowulf and his men shaking out their mail-shirts as they beached their ship on the coast of Denmark, listening to the rising anger of Beowulf at the taunting of Unferth, or looking up in amazement at Grendel’s terrible hand set under the roof of Heorot. But the commentary in this book includes also much from those lectures in which, while always anchored in the text, he expressed his wider perceptions. He looks closely at the dragon that would slay Beowulf ‘snuffling in baffled rage and injured greed when he discovers the theft of the cup’; but he rebuts the notion that this is ‘a mere treasure story’, ‘just another dragon tale’. He turns to the lines that tell of the burying of the golden things long ago, and observes that it is ‘the feeling for the treasure itself, this sad history’ that raises it to another level. ‘The whole thing is sombre, tragic, sinister, curiously real. The “treasure” is not just some lucky wealth that will enable the finder to have a good time, or marry the princess. It is laden with history, leading back into the dark heathen ages beyond the memory of song, but not beyond the reach of imagination.’ Sellic Spell, a ‘marvellous tale’, is a story written by Tolkien suggesting what might have been the form and style of an Old English folk-tale of Beowulf, in which there was no association with the ‘historical legends’ of the Northern kingdoms.

Language: English
Paperback:
ISBN-10: 9780007590094
ISBN-13: 9780007590094
Genre: Sci-fi & Fantasy
Shipping Weight: 25 grams
Condition: New

Out of stock

SKU: 9780007590094 Categories: Books, English Books, Sci-fi & Fantasy Author: J.R.R. Tolkien

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Beowulf: A Translation and Commentary, Together with Sellic Spell

Beowulf: A Translation and Commentary, Together with Sellic Spell Book Description

Readers will discover a remarkable pairing of J.R.R. Tolkien’s early translation of the epic poem Beauwulf and his insightful commentary drawn from Oxford lectures in the 1930s. Completed in 1926, the translation offers a vivid re‑imagining of the ancient tale, while the commentary opens a window onto Tolkien’s scholarly mind. He vividly describes warriors shaking out their mail‑shirts on the Danish coast and interprets the dragon’s baffled rage. Therefore, this edition serves as both a faithful translation and a helpful guide, making the classic accessible to modern readers.

Fans of myth and fantasy will enjoy Tolkien’s lively descriptions of key scenes. He places readers beside the hero as he confronts Unferth’s taunts and shows the terror of Grendel’s hand looming over Heorot. Additionally, the commentary goes beyond the text to explore deeper themes such as the tragic nature of treasure and the lingering memory of a pagan past. Moreover, Tolkien argues that the dragon’s hoard is not merely a “treasure story” but a symbol of sorrowful history that shapes the narrative’s emotional weight.

Meanwhile, the included piece “Sellic Spell” adds another dimension. Tolkien crafted this work as a possible Old English folk‑tale, free from later historical legends. It demonstrates his ability to imagine how ancient storytellers might have shaped the Beowulf legend. Furthermore, the story underscores his belief that myth’s power lies in evoking universal feelings of loss, bravery, and wonder.

Key Features of Beowulf: A Translation and Commentary, Together with Sellic Spell

Readers will find a dual‑volume format that separates the translation from the commentary, allowing easy navigation between the poetic text and scholarly notes. Each lecture excerpt has been carefully selected to highlight Tolkien’s interpretive strategies, making the complex Old English source clearer for contemporary audiences. Also, the commentary includes vivid analogies that bring the saga’s battles and monsters to life.

Additionally, the book offers a high‑quality paperback edition with a durable cover, perfect for collectors and students alike. The ISBN‑10 9780007590094 and ISBN‑13 9780007590094 ensure you receive the correct edition. The genre is listed as Sci‑fi & Fantasy, reflecting Tolkien’s imaginative approach to the ancient material.

Furthermore, the edition provides helpful context about the poem’s cultural background, explaining why the “golden things” buried long ago carry such emotional weight. This information helps readers appreciate the story’s depth without requiring prior knowledge of Anglo‑Saxon literature.

Why Read This Book?

Readers will gain a richer understanding of Beowulf through Tolkien’s rare perspective as both translator and critic. The commentary illuminates passages that might otherwise seem opaque, such as the dragon’s “snuffling in baffled rage” and the tragic tone of the final battle. Moreover, the inclusion of “Sellic Spell” offers a fresh, imaginative take on the legend, showcasing Tolkien’s creative talent beyond his later works.

Fans of Tolkien will appreciate seeing his early scholarly voice, a side seldom highlighted in popular discussions of his career. Meanwhile, scholars of medieval literature will find the lecture excerpts valuable for classroom use or personal study. Because the book balances narrative excitement with academic insight, it serves both casual readers and serious students.

Therefore, this volume makes an excellent gift for anyone who loves classic epics, fantasy world‑building, or literary analysis. Its blend of translation, commentary, and original storytelling creates a comprehensive experience that is both entertaining and educational.

About This Book

This paperback edition is new, weighs only 25 grams, and arrives ready to read. Language: English. The book is part of a curated collection of English titles, and you can explore more options through our store links. For further details about the author and the edition, visit the Goodreads page. You can also discover additional English books at our store by following this link. Enjoy Tolkien’s timeless vision of Beowulf and experience the legend as never before.