is one of the earliest extant poems in a modern European language, composed in England before the Norman Conquest. As a social document this great epic poem is invaluable—reflecting a feudal world of hero's and monsters, blood and victory, life and death. As a work of art, it is unique. rings with beauty, power, and artistry that have kept it alive for a thousand years. The noble simplicity of 's anonymous Anglo-Saxon singer is recaptured in this vivid translation by Burton Raffel.