Terence answers “In the summary of this book, it says "A...”

ImScared3222 asked this question about Beowulf:

In the summary of this book, it says "A new, feminist translation". Do the translator's personal views change the narrative of this story? Is this translation more of an opinion piece? I'm asking genuinely - not looking for a fight.

Terence I just finished reading the translation & I'd say that Casey is right in that the language regarding Grendel and his mother is a bit more nuanced than…moreI just finished reading the translation & I'd say that Casey is right in that the language regarding Grendel and his mother is a bit more nuanced than simply presenting them a "monsters."

The poem focuses on its traditional protagonist, Beowulf, but Headley's translation tends to focus on the brutal environment & the motivations of the characters. I wouldn't really characterize it as "feminist" just as a version emphasizing elements of the tale sometimes marginalized or forgotten in other versions.

Headley's intro is actually quite good in laying out how she approached the translation & is worth reading even if you don't get to the poem.(less)

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