Beowulf and Celtic tradition / by Martin Puhvel.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Puhvel, Martin, 1933-

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Beowulf.

Celtic literature--History and criticism.

Celts--Folklore.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (153 p.)

Edition:

1st ed.

Place of Publication:

Waterloo, Ont. : Wilfrid Laurier University Press, 1979.

Language Note:

English

Summary:

Puhvel traces and evaluates the possible influences of Celtic tradition on the Anglo-Saxon epic poem Beowulf. He discusses theories of the origins of the poem, draws parallels between elements in Beowulf and in Celtic literary tradition, and suggests that the central plot of the poem, the conflict between Grendel and his mother, is "fundamentally indebted to Celtic folktale elements." The study is well documented and rich in references to Celtic literature, legend, and folklore.

Contents:

Preface

Review of the case for Celtic influence in Beowulf

The might of Grendel's mother

The light-phenomenon in Grendel's dwelling

The melting of the giantwrought sword

Beowulf and Irish battle rage

The swimming prowess of Beowulf

Beowulf and Celtic tradition water-monsters

Beowulf and Irish underwater adventure

Beowulf's slaying of Daeghrefn

The question of the origin of the Grendel story.

Notes:

Description based upon print version of record.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Description based on print version record.

ISBN:

9786613811417

9781554587698

1554587697

9781282233676

128223367X

9780889206410

0889206414

OCLC:

753479571