Product Description: This book examines violence in its social setting, and especially as an essential element in the heroic system of exchange (sometimes called the Economy of Honour). It situates Beowulf in a northern European culture where violence was not stigmatized as evidence of a breakdown in social order but rather was seen as a reasonable way to get things done; where kings and their retainers saw themselves above all as warriors whose chief occupation was the pursuit of honour; and where most successful kings were those perceived as most predatory...read more

This innovative introduction to the Old English language focuses on what students need to know in order to engage with Old English literary and historical texts. A pioneering introduction to Old English designed for a new generation of students. Assumes no expertise in other languages or in traditional grammar. Opening chapters and 'Quick Start' sections cover the basics. 'Minitexts' give students practice in reading Old English. Includes two chapters on syntax and three on reading poetry. Anthologises fourteen readings, including 'The Wanderer', 'The Dream of the Rood' and 'Judith'. The accompanying 'Old English Aerobics' website features additional readings and exercises.

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Product Description: First published in 2000. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company. (view table of contents, read Amazon.com's description)

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Product Description: This is the second and final volume of James Boswell's general correspondence for the years 1766 to 1769. The richly diverse collection includes the texts of letters between Boswell and 123 correspondents, beginning when Boswell was in the early years of his legal career in Edinburgh and closing shortly after his marriage to his penniless Ayrshire cousin, Margaret Montgomerie...read more (view table of contents, read Amazon.com's description)

Product Description: First published in 1995. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.