Journey back to a 5th-century world of warring tribes in Waltharius: The Latin Epic of Walther of Aquitaine. This new edition, expertly translated by Leonard Neidorf and Brian Murdoch, presents a vibrant rendering of this rarely accessible medieval masterpiece. Follow Walther and Hildegund as they flee Attila the Hun, pursued by Franks and grappling with moral dilemmas. This engaging narrative, blending Germanic legend with Latin learning, is enhanced by a rich introduction, copious notes, and a facing-page presentation of the original Latin text alongside the English verse translation. Accessible yet scholarly, Waltharius offers a captivating glimpse into the "Dark Ages" and a vital piece of medieval literature.
Review Waltharius
Wow, what a delightful surprise Waltharius turned out to be! I'll admit, going in, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. A Latin epic from the 9th or 10th century? It sounded potentially dense, academic, and frankly, a bit intimidating. But Professors Murdoch and Neidorf have crafted an edition that completely shattered those preconceptions. This isn't just a scholarly text; it's a genuinely enjoyable read, accessible to both seasoned medievalists and curious newcomers alike.
The decision to present the Latin text alongside Murdoch's translation is brilliant. This facing-page format makes comparing the original with the modern English incredibly easy, allowing you to appreciate both the beauty of the language and the skill of the translation. And speaking of the translation, Murdoch’s verse rendering is exceptionally smooth. It flows beautifully, capturing the spirit of the epic without sacrificing accuracy or feeling overly modernized. It’s the kind of translation that makes you want to read aloud, the rhythm and rhyme enhancing the story's dramatic tension.
But the brilliance of this edition extends far beyond the translation itself. The introduction is phenomenal, a fascinating dive into the historical and literary context of Waltharius. It expertly sets the stage, illuminating the historical figures, the cultural influences, and the significance of the poem within the broader landscape of medieval literature. The extensive notes are equally impressive, providing helpful clarification without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary detail. They're concise, insightful, and precisely what you need to fully appreciate the nuances of the story and the language.
And let's not forget the sheer beauty of the book itself. I’m a sucker for a well-designed book, and this edition is a masterpiece of publishing. The cover is stunning, a visual feast that immediately draws you in. The layout is clean, elegant, and supremely user-friendly. The high-quality paper and binding add to the overall luxurious feel. This is the kind of book you'll want to display proudly on your bookshelf, even if you're not actively reading it.
The story itself, the daring escape of Walther and Hildegund from Attila the Hun's court, is gripping. The themes of love, loyalty, courage, and the moral ambiguities of war resonate powerfully, even across the centuries. It's a thrilling adventure, filled with daring escapes, fierce battles, and complex characters. You find yourself rooting for Walther and Hildegund, experiencing their triumphs and anxieties, and pondering the difficult choices faced by characters like Hagen. The poem masterfully blends elements of Germanic legend with Latin literary sophistication, creating a truly unique and captivating narrative.
In short, Waltharius: The Latin Epic of Walther of Aquitaine, edited and translated by Murdoch and Neidorf, is a triumph. It's a beautifully presented, expertly translated, and incredibly engaging introduction to a lesser-known but profoundly important piece of medieval literature. It's a book I wholeheartedly recommend, and one I'm certain I'll return to again and again. I strongly advise getting the hardback; it's an investment you won't regret.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.46 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 184
- Publication date: 2024
Book table of contents
- Preface
- Introduction
- Bibliography
- Waltharius: Text and Translation
- Notes
- Appendix: 'Two Latin Battle Poems'
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