Book Review Summary: The Anglo-Saxon World: An Anthology

Introduction

"The Anglo-Saxon World: An Anthology" is a comprehensive collection of Anglo-Saxon literature that offers readers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of early medieval England. The anthology features a diverse range of texts, including epic poems, legal documents, sermons, letters, and more. In this article, we will delve into the book's contents, explore the author's background, analyze readers' opinions, and provide reasons for both recommending and not recommending this book.

About Kevin Crossley-Holland

Kevin Crossley-Holland, the author of "The Anglo-Saxon World: An Anthology," is a well-known poet and prize-winning author for children. He has written numerous books, including "Waterslain Angels," "Moored Man: A Cycle of North Norfolk Poems; Gatty's Tale," and the Arthur trilogy. Crossley-Holland has also translated "Beowulf" from the Anglo-Saxon and retold traditional tales in his works. He has received critical acclaim for his contributions to children's literature and his collaborations with composers.

Analysis of Views

1. Intriguing Poetry: Many readers found the poetry in this anthology to be deeply moving and complex. They appreciated the way it captured various aspects of Anglo-Saxon life, including human nature, loyalty, bravery, and the soothing nature of Christianity. The poems "The Seafarer," "The Wanderer," and "The Battle of Maldon" were particularly praised for their quality and relevance.

2. Bede's Contribution: The inclusion of Bede's writings was a significant highlight for some readers. They found his historical passages engaging and interesting to read. The insights he provided into the Anglo-Saxon world and his perspective on Roman Britain were seen as valuable additions to the anthology.

3. Variety of Texts: The anthology offers a wide range of primary sources, including epic poems, sermons, letters, wills, charters, and charms. Readers appreciated the variety of texts and found it enlightening to explore different genres from the Anglo-Saxon period.

4. Accessibility: Many readers found the translations in this anthology to be readable and accurate. They appreciated the modern understanding that was brought to ancient texts without compromising their authenticity. The translations made it easier for readers to appreciate the works without feeling overwhelmed by their antiquity.

5. Themes and Ideas: The anthology provides a glimpse into the Anglo-Saxon society's ideals of manhood, decent behavior, and their ongoing tension between pagan roots and Christian influence. Readers found these themes intriguing and appreciated the insights they gained into the culture and beliefs of early medieval England.

Reasons for Recommendation

1. In-Depth Exploration: The anthology offers a comprehensive exploration of Anglo-Saxon literature, providing readers with a wide range of texts that showcase the diversity and richness of the period. It offers a valuable resource for those interested in early medieval England and its literature.

2. Engaging Translations: The translations in this anthology are praised for their accessibility and accuracy. They bring ancient texts to modern readers without compromising their authenticity, making it easier for readers to appreciate the works without feeling overwhelmed by their antiquity.

3. Insights into Anglo-Saxon Culture: Readers appreciate the insights into Anglo-Saxon society, beliefs, and values that are presented in this anthology. It provides a deeper understanding of the culture and helps readers connect with the people who lived during this period.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

1. Lack of Chronological Order: Some readers found it challenging to navigate through the anthology due to its lack of chronological order. They felt that organizing the texts in a chronological manner would have made it easier to understand the development of Anglo-Saxon literature over time.

2. Dry Legal Documents: A few readers found certain sections, such as legal documents and charters, to be dry and less engaging compared to other texts in the anthology. They felt that these sections could have been edited down or presented in a more accessible format to maintain reader interest.

Conclusion

"The Anglo-Saxon World: An Anthology" by Kevin Crossley-Holland is a comprehensive collection of Anglo-Saxon literature that offers readers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of early medieval England. The anthology features a diverse range of texts, including epic poems, legal documents, sermons, letters, and more. Readers appreciate the intriguing poetry, Bede's historical contributions, variety of texts, accessibility of translations, and insights into Anglo-Saxon culture. However, some readers found the lack of chronological order challenging and certain sections less engaging. Overall, this anthology is recommended for those interested in early medieval England and its literature, as it provides a comprehensive exploration of Anglo-Saxon literature and culture.