Beowulf the Warrior

Beowulf the Warrior is an outstanding modern version of the oldest epic in the English language. Ian Serraillier has retold the story of the hero Beowulf and his three memorable exploits - first, his rescuing of Hrothgar the Dane from the ravages of monstrous Grendel; next, his victory over Grendel's strange and horrible mother; and finally, in Beowulf's old age, his saving of his own people, the Geats, from the horrors of a dragon at the cost of his life.

The adventure, with its compelling grandeur, speaks for itself. Beowulf's heroism and noble heart communicates to any English-speaking listener. Serraillier has rewoven in modern narrative verse the energy and vividness of the original. The lines invite the tongue to read them aloud. Master storyteller that he is, Serraillier has made the tale accessible to our day. Here is a wonderful means to get acquainted with a treasure from 1200 years ago, and (why are we so surprised?) become entralled.

First published in the 1950's, Beowulf the Warrior has proven its mettle with a wide age range. It is a work of art in itself and a doorway to further experiences with the epic.