A lovely, diverse collection of Anglo-Saxon writings translated by Kevin Crossley-Holland, including Beowulf, a collection of Heroic Poems, Elegies, Church writings, Laws, portions of the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, Poems of Exploration, some riddles from the Exeter Book and other odds-and-ends. The translations are clear and accessible and each section is preceded by a commentary which puts the Anglo-Saxon texts into context. This collection provides a picture of the people who migrated to the British Isles as pagans and became Christians within a few centuries. ( )

A wide selection of poetry, epic battle literature, charms, letters, laws charters and almost everything else from the Anglo-Saxon age.I have only read parts of the entire compilation of works in the anthology.

The content is hugely varied, ranging from Beowulf to letters from the Pope to Saxon Kings, and naughty riddles, including my favourite short poem ‘The Wanderer’ in which a Warrior laments the loss of the brotherhood of his friends and fellowship of the Mead-hall after the death of his Lord.
The version of the poem included in this book did seem to be a bit of an over-literal translation in some places which appeared to detract from the poetic style but it is still and excellent introduction to the fascinating civilization of the Anglo Saxons.

My only gripe is that the author did not include a sampling of the works of Alcuin of York (which I would love to read) or extracts from Bede’s ‘On the Reckoning of Time’ especially as the Latter text clearly demonstrates that as early as the 7th century medieval people knew the earth was round. ( )

Anglo-Saxon history through the translated writings of the time, literature and letters. Somewhat ponderous to read, but worthwhile if you are interested in the time period. ( )

finally finished this one last night. I must admit that it took me a while, but it was worth it.

I read it after finishing this books earlier this year: http://bookcrossing.com/journal/1890116

So, comparing it with the previous collection of Anglo-Saxon work, here's my feelings:

Pros:
Contains more than just poetry - lots other stuff I hadn't read, like sermons, charters, letters, history, etc.

Nice job at establishing the setting for each work including

Contains all of Beowulf, not just selected parts, unlike the first book above

Easy to read and understand

Cons:

No glossary or explanantion of difficult terms in the back

A little too easy to understand - it's like the difference between the newer translations of the Bible and the King James Version. The language may be more familiar, but some of the poetry and complexity of meaning is lost. The translation on some of the poems was stronger in the first book.

Still, really worth reading and a definite keeper.

CMB ( )

A good introduction to the Anglo-Saxon sensibility, kennings included.