Beowulf

Of unknown authorship Beowulf is an Old English epic poem which incites contentious debate and has been endlessly interpreted over the centuries. This Reader''s Guide provides a much-needed overview of the large body of Beowulf criticism moving from 18th century reactions to 21st century responses. Jodi-Ann George:- Charts the changes in critical trends and theoretical approaches applied to the poem.- Includes discussion of J. R. R. Tolkein''s pioneering 1936 lecture on Beowulf and Seamus Heaney''s recent translation.- Analyses Beowulf in popular culture addressing the poem''s life in film versions graphic novels music and comics.Clear and engaging this is an indispensable introductory guide to a widely-studied and enigmatic work which continues to fascinate readers everywhere.