Battle of Maldon: War and Peace in Tenth-Century England

The Battle of Maldon is a 10th-century English poem that portrays a bloody fight along the banks of the Blackwater River. It celebrates ideals of loyalty and friendship and commemorates an event that changed the face of English culture. Mark Atherton's translation from Old English evokes the chaotic ebb and flow of the battle and places it in the context of its age.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 24 December 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Battle of Maldon, a pivotal conflict in tenth-century England, is immortalized in the poem, capturing the bloody encounter that unfolded along the banks of the tidal river Blackwater in 991. Through its vivid portrayal, the poem evokes the lore and language of a determined nation confronting a ruthless and relentless enemy. However, as Mark Atherton reveals, The Battle of Maldon goes beyond a heroic narrative meant to inspire courage and unity during times of crisis. It celebrates the ideals of loyalty and friendship and commemorates an event that profoundly shaped English culture.

Atherton's meticulous translations from Old English bring the chaotic ebb and flow of the battle to life, while also placing Maldon within the context of its age. By examining how the poem encouraged its readers to relive the visceral experience of battle firsthand, Atherton seeks to reconstruct the way of life, spirituality, and worldview of the original audience. This exciting study provides an authoritative treatment of the iconic text, its historical context, and its enduring legacy. As such, The Battle of Maldon: War and Peace in Tenth-Century England will be an invaluable resource for all readers interested in Old English literature and early medieval history.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350134034