Old English Prose and Verse: An Annotated Selection with Introductions and Notes by

This book is a collection of literary texts from the earliest stages of English literature, with full critical and annotative apparatus. It includes more generous extracts from Beowulf than are common in anthologies, and is designed to satisfy all but the advanced student. It also provides a glossary of form and meaning that is easier to use than those of earlier selections.

Format: Hardback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1966, this comprehensive textbook serves as an invaluable resource for students embarking on their journey through the earliest stages of English literature. Comprising a diverse selection of texts, it offers a comprehensive introductory course that encompasses all the principal poems and prose works of the era. Notably, this anthology includes more generous excerpts from the renowned epic poem Beowulf than are typically found in similar collections. By excluding texts with primarily philological and historical significance, the authors have managed to include a sufficient abundance of literary texts to cater to students at various levels, with the more advanced scholars encouraged to explore the specialized editions available.

A notable departure from traditional Old English anthology designs is the inclusion of a comprehensive critical and annotative apparatus. In the past, students had to rely on specialized editions or scholarly articles to gain even the most basic insights into the extracts or their content. Here, each text is accompanied by an introduction that provides concise details regarding the date, authorship, manuscript history, character, and critical relevance of the work. Furthermore, detailed line-by-line explanatory notes are provided, alongside a comprehensive bibliography of books and articles for further study. The glossary aims to be more explicit about form and meaning, making it easier for students to grasp and apply the terminology.

In summary, this textbook is an essential tool for students seeking to delve into the rich tapestry of English literature during its formative years. With its extensive selection of texts, comprehensive critical apparatus, and user-friendly glossary, it provides a solid foundation for understanding and appreciating the literary works of the early Middle Ages.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032225869