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: Paperback / softback
Length: 246 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2023
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. Spanning a wide array of literary works, including generous excerpts from renowned texts such as Beowulf, the book offers a diverse selection to cater to the needs of introductory courses. By excluding texts with primarily philological and historical significance, it has been possible to include a substantial amount of literary texts, satisfying the requirements of students at various levels.

A notable departure from traditional Old English anthology designs is the inclusion of comprehensive critical and annotative apparatus. In the past, students had to rely on specialized editions or scholarly articles to gain basic information about the extracts or their content. However, this textbook goes a step further by providing concise introductions for each text, detailing relevant information such as the date, authorship, manuscript history, character, and critical significance. Additionally, detailed line-by-line explanatory notes accompany each extract, offering valuable insights into the nuances and meanings of the literature.

Furthermore, a comprehensive bibliography of books and articles is included, empowering students to delve deeper into their studies and explore the rich tapestry of English literature in greater detail. The glossary, designed to be more explicit about form and meaning, aims to enhance the reader's understanding and usage of literary terms.

In summary, this textbook serves as an essential guide for students seeking to gain a comprehensive understanding of the earliest stages of English literature. With its wide-ranging selection of texts, comprehensive critical apparatus, and user-friendly features, it equips students with the tools they need to excel in their academic pursuits.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032226002