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Reading notes : Beowulf, Part B

I really enjoyed Part B of this reading as well! What I noticed a lot was that the author often used specific objects to describe things instead of just adjectives. For example, "legs were like tree trunks" and "eyes the color of milk". The use if similes and metaphors were very effective in decribing the vividness of the setting and characters, especially the monsters. It also strikes a lot of imagery in the mind (well, at least my mind) of the reader and brought the whole story to life. The creative effects also made the story, which is a bit longer than most, very engaging to read.

Also, the author used many stylistic elements in the text. Repetition, alliteration, and parallel sentences brough fight scenes to life and animated the plot. There was often a flare for the dramatic as well, which was refreshing to read, especially in scenes of conflict. The characters are brought out larger than life, and their actions reflect that.

The narrative style of this is so beautiful as well. The plot flows seamlessly, like I'm watching an espisode of Game of Thrones or something. The names throughout were also very interesting, and I was left wondering about the origins of them.

The whole character of Beowulf is very interesting. A lot of what the reader knows about him comes from the observations of the other characters, but he is not the jack of all trades that heros mostly are. While his body is big an abled, he does not possess sublime intelligence or tact. Rather, he has bravery and courage (almost a foolish amount) that sends him charging head-first into danger at the command of his king and queen. But the reader cannot help but root for his fellow. His sould is pure and his motivations are always clear. There is no underlying agenda. All these elements: beautiful style, imagery, engaging characters, make The Tale of Beowulf a wonderful read! I can see how this classical tale could inspire many budding writers who share a passion for fantasy.


Beowulf illustration by Henry Pitz


The Story of Beowulf. Strafford Riggs (1933). Web Source.

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