Beowulf

By: Anonymous

Narrated by: Svanur Thorkelsson

The Old English epic poem Beowulf, recorded in its original Saxon dialect for the first time.

Performed by Icelandic poet, playwright, professional storyteller and performer Svanur Thorkelsson, Audible’s production gives listeners the opportunity to experience how it might have felt to hear bards recite sections of the 3000-line poem from memory in Anglo Saxon dining halls. Audible’s Beowulf recaptures the heroic style and vast scale of what can be considered ‘England’s first native audiobook’.

Considered one of the most important pieces of English literature, Beowulf has gripped audiences for over 1,000 years. It has been hugely influential on English and world literature – in particular Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones – and has continued to be explored and reinterpreted through adaptations across mediums including novels, film, TV, opera, graphic novels and more.

About the narrator

Svanur Thorkelsson is a native Icelandic poet and a playwright. As a professional storyteller and a performer Svanur channels his passion for authentic Nordic and Anglo Saxon lore and legends. His work includes media such as radio, theatre and television as well as participation in public and private events. Svanur has also over the years worked to promote and partake in bardic events in the UK and Iceland.

Public Domain (P)2020 Audible, Ltd

Other reviews aren't too bright

Description says old Saxon, guess they couldn't be bothered to read the description before downloading

Love the Sound

I’ve been looking for a recording in Old English. Some day…. I may even understand the words.

Not English…

The performance was good enough that I wish I knew the language it was performed in. Otherwise, huh?!

Yay Old English!

I am so thrilled to find this wonderful telling of Beowulf in its original language. This recording is wonderful for Old English learners - incredibly immersive!

Wonderful poetic reading of the classic.

Thorkelsson gives us the phrasing and passion of the book in its original tongue. If you’ve any doubts, listen to Stanza six.