Description
The heat of Beowulf offers a groundbreaking exploration of the aesthetics of the epic poem, intertwining modern literary theory with Old English poetics. This essential read delves into the dynamic relationship between Beowulf and the avant-garde works of poets Robin Blaser and Jack Spicer. By applying contemporary translation theory and a sensory-affective lens, this book disrupts traditional interpretations and reignites scholarly discussion on the significance of Beowulf. Readers will discover how Blaser and Spicer's engagement with the poem reflects a shift towards a non-representational poetics, offering fresh insights into medieval literature. The work looks at the intersection of early medieval discourses and twentieth-century phenomenology, ultimately reshaping our understanding of Beowulf as a living text. It argues that the poem serves as a sensory prosthesis, revealing the complex relationship between human corporeality and the non-human world. With implications for ecopoetics, aesthetics, and the perception of disability, The heat of Beowulf is a vital contribution to the fields of literature, cultural studies, and translation theory, making it indispensable for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike.