Final Score: 3.5/5
Original Review:
And the award for the biggest surprise read of 2019 so far goes to...
Really, I'd only wanted to give 'Beowulf' a try because of its status in classic literature and pop culture, its apparent major influence on human storytelling, and that it's a "must read" for bookworms. Its origins date back to 536; its so old its author is unknown. But the translation I read is by Seamus Heaney, who is clearly passionate about his work. 'Beowulf', the Anglo-Saxon epic poem set in and around Denmark, is kinda great. I finished it in a day.
Critiquing it by its translation, it's picturesque and gets to the point fast-pace. It's easy to understand and get through, and exciting. Its characters are distinct and interesting, and its rich in detail and atmosphere (lots of gold!) yet condensed to include as much action as it can. I see how it may have influenced later myths, legends, fables, fairy tales, and blockbusters.
Beowulf might be the world's first Gary Stu, and the biggest of all time: he's so strong, wise, dexterous, overpowered and beloved, it's mad. Everybody speaks highly of him and about him, and anyone who doesn't initially is won over fairly quickly. But Beowulf will be admired anyway. A superhuman who beats murderous monsters with his bare hands and gives motivational and inspiring speeches, what's to hate?
Throughout his ordeals and life, as a prince, a warrior, a king - the poem ends with his hero's death after defeating a hoarding dragon - he never takes a lover, nor a wife, at least. When there are a few female characters, like queens (not to mention the demonic Grendel's vengeful mother), who do speak. Take that,
Legends and superheroes owe a lot to Beowulf.
'Beowulf' is also very preachy and pious for its time. Nonetheless it is enjoyable for the most reluctant readers, and for people who don't usually read poetry, like myself. Its reputation proceeds it quite rightly: it is, well, epic.
Final Score: 4/5
No comments:
Post a Comment