24 November, 2012

Translation Notes

The five translations that I have here posted are all that I have currently been able to recover.  I also did complete translations of the Anglo-Saxon poems "Deor", "Elene", and both fragments of "Waldere". In addition, I also started a translation of the Anglo-Saxon "Genesis" (approximately the first 100 lines of the Genesis A text), but didn't complete the entire work.  Unfortunately, my original WordPerfect 5.1 files for these translations were lost in a computer crash around 1995 and I was only able to recover the five translations here posted (which happened to have been saved on an older floppy disk). The good news is that I believe I still have hard copies of those translations somewhere; the bad news is, that somewhere is probably my cluttered basement.  I hope to recover these translations sometime, but as to when I can't say.  But when that does happen, I intend to post them here as well.  And who knows; maybe I'll even complete that "Genesis" translation (and perhaps push on to the rest of the Anglo-Saxon poetic corpus).

The Battle of Maldon

Another translation from Anglo-Saxon, circa 1991.  Of the translations I produced, I think this one is probably my best (as well as being my favorite).  At 325 lines, it is also the longest. Like the "Dream of the Rood" and "Widsith" translations, I occasionally hear that it too has been used as classroom material -- something which still astonishes me, since I worked on it 21 years ago.

Unlike most Anglo-Saxon poetry, we can actually date this work with a fair degree of certainty to the last decade of the 10th Century AD or very soon thereafter.  This is because the battle it commemorates occurred on August 10, 991 between the English earl Byrhtnoth and Viking marauders, and the poem itself seems to have been written soon after.  However, both the very beginning and the very end of the work have been lost, though it is generally believed that the missing material is not much more substantial than that which has survived.  Author is unknown, but it seems probable that the author himself was a witness to the events (though that too is debated). Sadly, the only surviving manuscript of the work was destroyed by fire in 1731. All texts and translations of the work are based upon two transcriptions, both of which were made about 1725. This translation is based upon the Elphinston (Elph.) transcription, as edited by E.V. Gordon, "The Battle of Maldon" (Methuen, London, 1937). The Wikipedia discussion of the poem can be found here; the discussion on the battle itself can be found here.

PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED to reproduce this translation, so long as the following conditions are met: 1) It is to be used for classroom or other educational purposes; 2) That it is not to be reproduced for profit; and 3) That the translation be properly credited to its translator, namely me (Douglas B. Killings). If you have any questions about reproducing this work, you may contact me at DeTroyes@sbcglobal.net. Thank you!

--DBK

*****

The Battle of Maldon

Verse Translation

...would be broken.
Then he ordered a warrior each horse be let free,
driven afar and advance onward,
giving thought to deeds of arms and to steadfast courage.
Then it was that Offa's kinsman first perceived,
that the Earl would not endure cowardice,
for he let then from his hand flee his beloved
falcon towards the woods and there to battle went forth.
By this a man might understand that this youth would not
prove soft at the coming battle, when he takes up arms.
Further Eadric desired his chief to serve,
his lord to fight with; and so he advanced forward
his spear to battle. He had a dauntless spirit
as long as he with hands might be able to grasp
shield and broad sword: the vow he would carry out
that he had made before his lord saying he would fight.
Then Byrhtnoth marshalled his soldiers,
riding and instructing, directing his warriors
how they should stand and the positions they should keep,
and ordering that their shields properly stand firm
with steady hands and be not afraid.
Then when he beheld that people in suitable array,
he dismounted amid his people where he was most pleased to be
there amid his retainers knowing their devotion.
Then stood on the shore, stoutly calling out
a Viking messenger, making speech,
menacingly delivering the sea-pirate's
message to this Earl on the opposite shore standing:
"I send to you from the bold seamen,
a command to tell that you must quickly send
treasures to us, and it would be better to you if
this conflict of spears with tribute buy off
than with us bitter battle share.
No need to slaughter each other if you be generous with us;
we would be willing for gold to bring a truce.
If you believe which of these is the noblest path,
and that your people are desirous of assurance,
then pay the sea-farers on their own terms
money towards peace and receive peace from us,
for we with this tribute will take to our ships,
depart on the sea and keep peace with you."
Byrhtnoth spoke, his shield raised aloft,
brandishing a slender ash-wood spear, speaking words,
wrathful and resolute did he give his answer:
"Hear now you, pirate, what this people say?
They desire to you a tribute of spears to pay,
poisoned spears and old swords,
the war-gear which you in battle will not profit from.
Sea-thieves messenger, deliver back in reply,
tell your people this spiteful message,
that here stands undaunted an Earl with his band of men
who will defend our homeland,
Aethelred's country, the lord of my
people and land. Fall shall you
heathen in battle! To us it would be shameful
that you with our coin to your ships should get away
without a fight, now you thus far
into our homeland have come.
You shall not so easily carry off our treasure:
with us must spear and blade first decide the terms,
fierce conflict, is the tribute we will hand over."
He then ordered their shields taken up, his soldiers advancing
until they on the river-bank they all stood.
Because of the river they were not able this band of men to fight the other:
there came flowing the flood after the tide;
joining in the tidal stream. Too long it seemed to him
until the time when they together with spears join in battle.
There they on the Pante stream with pride lined the banks,
East Saxon spears and the sea-raider army;
nor might any harm the other
unless through an arrow's flight death receive.
Then the tide went out. The seamen stood ready,
many Vikings eager for battle.
Then the heroes' protector ordered that the causeway be held
by a warrior stern -- Wulfstan was his name --
valiant with his people: that was Ceola's son,
who the first man with his spear slain
was one who boldly on the causeway stood.
There fought with Wulfstan warriors fearless,
Aelfere and Maccus, two great in courage,
who would not at this fjord take to flight,
but stoutly against the enemy defended themselves
while with their weapons they might wield.
Then they understood and clearly saw,
that this guarding of the causeway was a fierce encounter,
and so began to use guile, the hateful strangers,
asked that passage to land they might have,
to the shore and pass the fjord would this force lead.
Then the Earl permitted in his great pride
to allow land many of these hateful people;
and so then shouted on the shore of the cold water
Byrhtelm's child -- and the warriors listened:
"Now the way is open to you: come quickly to us
you men to battle. God alone knows
who on this field of honor may be allowed to be the master of."
Then advanced the wolves of slaughter, for water they cared not for,
this band of Vikings; west over the Pante's
shining water shore they carried their shields,
these men of the fleet towards land advanced their linden shields.
There against the enemy stood ready
Byrhtnoth with his soldiers. He with his shield commanded
to form the battle ranks and that force of men to hold fast
firmly towards the enemy. Then was the fight near,
Glory in battle. The time was come
that these doomed men would fall in battle.
There came the loud clamor. Ravens circled around,
eagles eager for carrion. On Earth was the battlecry.
They then sent forth from their hands shafts hard as file,
murderously sharpened spears flew.
Bows were busily at work, shields received spears.
Fierce was that onslaught. Warriors fell in battle
on either side, young men lay slain.
Wounded was Wulfmaer, meeting death on the battlefield,
Byrhtnoth's kinsman: he with sword was,
his sister's son, cruelly hewn down.
There were the Vikings given requital:
I hear that Eadweard smote one
fiercely with his sword, withholding not in his blow,
so that at his feet fell a doomed warrior;
for this he of his people gave thanks for,
this chamber-thane, when the opportunity arose.
So stood firm of purpose
these young men in battle, eagerly giving thought
to who there with spear-points was first able
of doomed men's life destroy,
warriors with weapons. The slain in battle fell to Earth.
Steadfast and unyielding, Byrhtnoth exhorted them,
bidding that each young warrior's purpose to this battle,
against the Danes a desire to win glory in war.
Advanced again to fierce battle, weapons raised up,
shields to defense, and towards these warriors they stepped.
Resolute they approached Earl to the lowest Yeoman:
each of them intent on harm for the enemy.
Sent then a sea-warrior a spear of southern make
that wounded the warrior lord.
He thrust then with his shield such that the spear shaft burst,
and that spear-head shattered as it sprang in reply.
Enraged became that warrior: with anger he stabbed
that proud Viking who had given him that wound.
Experienced was that warrior; he thrust his spear forward
through the warrior's neck, his hand guiding
so that he this ravager's life would fatally pierce.
Then he with another stab speedily pierced the ravager
so that the chainmail coat broke: this man had a breast wound
cut through the linked rings; through his heart stuck
a deadly spear. The Earl was the better pleased:
laughed then this great man of spirit, thanking the Creator
for the day's work which the Lord had given him.
And so then another warrior a spear from the other side
flew out of hand, which deeply struck
through the noble Aethelred's retainer.
To him by his side stood a young man not fully grown,
a youth on the battlefield, who valiantly
pulled out of this warrior the bloody spear,
Wulfstan's child, Wulfmaer the younger;
and so with blinding speed came the shaft in reply.
The spear penetrated, for that who on the Earth now lay
among his people, the one who had sorely pierced.
Went then armed a man to this Earl;
he desirous of this warrior's belongings to take off with,
booty and rings and an ornamental sword.
Then Byrhtnoth drew his sword from its sheath
broad and bright of blade, and then struck the man's coat of mail.
But too soon he was prevented by a certain sea-scavenger,
and then the Earl's arm was wounded.
Fall then to the ground with his gold-hilted sword:
his grip unable to hold the heavy sword,
or wield the weapon. Then still uttered those words
of the grey-haired warrior, encouraging the younger warriors,
bidding to advance stoutly together.
Not could he on his feet any longer stand firmly up,
and so he looked to heaven:
"I thank you, Lord of my people,
all the joys which I on this world have experienced.
"Now I ask, oh merciful Creator, the greatest hope
that to you my spirit shall be granted salvation
that my soul to thee be permitted to journey
and into your power, King of Angels,
with peace I depart. I only beseech that
the fiends of hell shall not be permitted to harm me."
Then he was slain by the heathen warriors;
and both of those warriors which by him stood,
Aelfnoth and Wulmaer were each slain,
close by their lord did they give up their lives.
Then turned away from battle those that would not stay:
there went Odda's child first to flight,
Godric fled from the battle, and the noble abandoned
the one which had often many a horse given him.
He leapt upon the mount of the steed which had once been his lord's,
on those trappings of which he was not fit,
he and with his brothers both galloped away,
Godwine and Godwig not caring for battle,
but turned away from this battlefield and to the forest fled,
seeking a place of safety and to protect their lives,
and many more men than what is right were there,
then if they had acted deservingly and all remembered
he who had to them all benefits did make.
Thus had Offa on that day first said
at the meeting place, there at the council,
that there would be boldly many a boastful speech
which at the time of stress would not endure.
So now was laid low the Chief of this army,
Aethelred's Earl. All saw those
sharers of the hearth that their lord lay slain.
But then there advanced onward those splendid retainers,
undaunted men hastening eagerly:
they desired all one of two things,
to leave life or else to avenge their dear lord.
And so exhorting them to advance was the child Aelfrices,
a warrior young in winters whose words spoke,
Aelfwine then said, he in valiant talk:
"Remember the speeches which we had often at mead spoken,
that we on the bench had loudly uttered vows,
warriors in the hall, concerning bitter strife:
Now may we prove who is truly valiant!
I am willing that my royal descent be made known to all men,
that I was of Mercian blood greatly kindred;
my grandfather was named Ealhelm,
a wise alderman and very prosperous.
Not shall me these people's liegeman reproach
that I of this army am willing to depart from,
a homeland seek, now that my lord lies slain
and hewn down in battle. Mine is that sorrow greatest:
he was both my kinsman and my lord."
Then he advanced onward, remembering with hostility,
then he with spear-point pierced one
pirate in their host, and to the ground lie slain
killed with the weapon. He began then to exhorted his comrades,
friends and compatriots, that they advance onward.
Offa spoke, shaking his ashen spear:
"Lo, thou Aelfwine, have your words thus reminded
us liegemen to our allegiance. Now our people's protector lies slain,
the Earl is on the Earth, and to us all is our need
that one another encourage each other
warriors to battle, while with weapons we are able
to have and grasp, the hard blade,
the spear and the good sword. To us has Godric,
that cowardly sun of Odda, all betrayed.
Many men believed, then when he rode on the horse,
on that splendid steed, that it was our lord.
Because of that happening here on the battlefield the people scattered,
the wall of shields breaking asunder. Shame on that action,
for because of him thus many a man was caused to flee!"
Leofsunu spoke and his linden shield was raised,
the board to defense; this warrior replied:
"I that swear, that from here I will not
flee a foot's space, as my desire is to advance further,
avenge in battle-strife my lord and friend.
I have no desire among Sturmere's unyielding heroes
to reproach my word, now that my patron has perished,
that I now lordless go on a homeward journey,
having turned away from battle, but rather I shall be taken by weapons,
either spear or iron." Wrathfully he advanced,
fighting resolutely, for he despised flight.
Dunnere then said brandishing his spear,
a simple yeoman calling out to the entire shore,
exhorting that each warrior avenge Byrhtnoth:
"One cannot retreat who intends vengeance
for our lord of the host, if their lives they care not for."
So then they pressed forward, caring not about their lives.
Then began these retainers to fiercely fight,
ferocious warriors armed with spears, and praying to God
that they might avenge their lord and patron
and on their enemy death make.
Thus the hostage himself willingly helped;
he was a Northumbrian of a brave family,
Ecglaf's child; he was named Aescferth.
He hesitated not at the play of battle,
but shot forward many arrows;
here striking a shield, there cutting down a warrior,
at almost every moment giving out some wound,
all the while with his weapon he would wield.
Yet still at the battle front stood Eadweard the tall
ready and eager, speaking vaunting words
that he would not flee a foot's ground,
or turn away back to the bank, than leave his superior where he lay.
He broke through that wall of shields and among the warriors fought,
until his bounteous lord upon those sea-men
did worthily avenge, and he on the battlefield lie slain.
So did Aetheric, noble comrade,
press forward and eager to advance fight resolutely,
Sibyrht's brother and very many others;
splitting the enemy's shields, valiantly they defended themselves.
Rang the shield rims, and sang the corselets of mail
a certain terrible dirge. Then at the battle's height
Offa a sea-farer sent to the Earth dead,
and there Gadd's kinsman was laid low to the ground:
soon it was at battle that Offa was hewn down.
He had however accomplished that vow to his lord
that he had uttered before to his giver of rings,
that either they both ride to the fortified
home unhurt or else perish fighting
on the battlefield and die of their wounds.
He lay slain nobly near the lord of his people.
Then it happened that the shields broke through. The sea-warriors advanced
to battle enraged. Spear often pierced
the doomed houses of life. Onward then advanced Wistan,
Thurhstan's son, to these warriors fought.
He was among the throng and slew three,
before Wigelm's child lay slain in battle.
There was severe combat. Stood firm
did these warriors in battle. Warriors perished
exhausted by their wounds. The slain fell dead to the Earth.
Oswold and Eadwold all this time,
both of these brothers encouraged the soldiers,
their beloved kinsman they would exhort through words
that they needed to endure
without weakening and make use of their weapons.
Byrhtwold spoke, shield raised aloft --
he was an old loyal retainer -- and brandished his spear;
he very boldly commanded the warriors:
"Our hearts must grow resolute, our courage more valiant,
our spirits must be greater, though our strength grows less.
Here lies our Lord all hewn down,
goodly he lies in the dust. A kinsman mourns
that who now from this battle-play thinks to turn away.
I am advanced in years. I do not desire to be taken away,
but I by my liege Lord,
by that favorite of men I intend to lie."
So then did Aethelgar's child enbolden them all,
Godric to battle. Often he sent forth spears,
deadly shaft sped away onto the Vikings;
thus he on this people went out in front of battle,
cutting down and smiting, until he too on the battlefield perished.
This was not that Godric who from the battle had flown away...


Prose Translation

(Line 1) ...would be broken.

(Line 2 - 16) Then he ordered each warrior their horses be let free, driven away and prepare to advance onward, giving thought to deeds of arms and to steadfast courage. Then it was that Offa's kinsman first knew that the Earl would not endure cowardice, for then from his hand he let flee his beloved falcon towards the woods, and there to battle went forth. By this act a man might understand that this youth would not prove soft in battle, when he takes up arms. In addition Eadric desired to serve his chief, his lord to fight with; and so he advanced forward his spear to battle. He had a dauntless spirit as long as he might be able to grasp shield and broad sword with his hands: a pledge that he had made before his lord vowing to fight he would carry out.

(Line 17 - 24) Then Byrhtnoth marshalled his soldiers, riding and instructing, directing his warriors how they should stand and the positions they should keep, and ordering that their shields properly stand firm with steady hands and to be not afraid. Then when he beheld those people in suitable array, he dismounted with the people whom he was most pleased to be -- amid his retainers, knowing of their devotion.

(Lines 25 - 41) Then stood on the shore a Viking messenger, stoutly calling out and making speech, menacingly delivering a sea-pirate's message to this Earl standing on the opposite shore: "I send to you from the bold seamen, a command to say that you must quickly send treasures to us, and it would be better to you if you with tribute buy off this conflict of spears than share bitter battle with us. No need to slaughter each other if you be generous to us; we would be willing to bring a truce for gold. If you believe which of these is the noblest path, and if your people are desirous of assurance, then pay the sea-farers on their own terms money towards peace and receive peace from us, for this tribute we will take to our ships, depart on the sea, and keep peace with you."

(Lines 42 - 61) Byrhtnoth spoke, his shield raised aloft, brandishing a slender ash-wood spear, speaking words, wrathful and resolute did he give his answer: "Hear now you, pirate, what say this people? They desire to pay you a tribute of spears, poisoned spears and old swords, the war-gear which you in battle will not profit from. Sea-thieves messenger, deliver back this reply, tell your people this spiteful message: that here stands undaunted an Earl with his band of men who will defend their homeland, Aethelred's country, the lord of my people and land. Fall shall you heathen in battle! To us it would be shameful that you should get away with our coin to your ships without a fight, seeing now thus far into our homeland you have come. You shall not so easily carry off our treasure: with us must spear and blade first decide the terms -- fierce conflict is the tribute we will hand over!"

(Lines 62 - 67) He then ordered their shields taken up, his soldiers advancing until they on the river-bank all stood. Because of the river this band of men was not able to fight the other: then there came flowing the flood after the tide, joining in the tidal stream. Too long it seemed to him until the time when together with spears they would join in battle.

(Lines 68 - 71) There on the Pante stream with pride they lined the banks, East Saxon spears and the sea-raider army; nor might any harm the other unless through an arrow's flight receive death.

(Lines 72 - 88) Then the tide went out. The seamen stood ready, many Vikings eager for battle. Then the heroes' protector ordered that the causeway be held by a warrior stern -- Wulfstan was his name -- valiant with his people: that was Ceola's son, who with his spear slew the first one who boldly stood on the causeway. There fought with Wulfstan warriors fearless, Aelfere and Maccus, two great in courage, who would not take to flight at this fjord, but stoutly defended themselves against the enemy while wielding their weapons. Then the sea-ravagers understood and clearly saw that this guarding of the causeway was a fierce encounter and so began to use guile, those hateful strangers, and asked that they might have passage to land, to lead this force to the shore and pass the fjord.

(Lines 89 - 95) Then the Earl permitted in his great pride to allow land many of these hateful people; and so then shouted on the shore of the cold water Byrhtelm's child -- and the warriors listened: "Now the way is open to you: come quickly to us you men to battle. God alone knows who on this field may be allowed to be the master of it."

(Lines 96 - 107) Then advanced the wolves of slaughter, for water they cared not to fight in, this band of Vikings; west over the Pante's shining water shore they carried their shields, these men of the fleet, and towards land advanced their linden shields. There against the enemy stood ready Byrhtnoth with his soldiers. He with his shield commanded to form the battle ranks and with that force of men to hold fast firmly against the enemy. Then was the fight near, glory in battle. The time was come that these doomed men would fall in battle. There came the loud clamor. Ravens circled around, eagles eager for carrion. On Earth there was the battle cry.

(Lines 108 - 112) They then sent forth from their hands shafts hard as file, and murderously sharpened spears flew. Bows were busily at work, shields received spears. Fierce was that onslaught. Warriors fell in battle on either side, young men lay slain.

(Lines 113 - 121) Wounded was Wulfmaer, meeting death on the battlefield, Byrhtnoth's kinsman, his sister's son: he with sword was cruelly hewn down. Then were the Vikings given requital: I hear that Eadweard smote one fiercely with his sword, withholding not in his blow, so that at his feet fell a doomed warrior; for this he of this people gave thanks for, that chamber-thane, when the opportunity arose.

(Lines 122 - 129) So stood firm of purpose these young men in battle, eagerly giving thought to who there with spear-points was first able to make doomed men's life destroy, warriors with weapons. The slain in battle fell to Earth. Steadfast and unyielding, Byrhtnoth exhorted them, bidding each young warrior's purpose in this battle against the Danes, a desire to win glory in war.

(Lines 130 - 142) Advancing again to fierce battle, weapons raised up, shields to defense, and towards these warriors they stepped. Resolute they approached from the Earl to the lowest Yeoman: each of them intent on harm for the enemy. Sent then one sea-warrior a spear of southern make that wounded the warrior lord. He thrust then with his shield such that the spear shaft burst, and that spear-head shattered as it sprang in reply. Enraged became that warrior: with anger he stabbed the proud Viking who had given him that wound. Experienced was that soldier; he thrust his spear forward through the warrior's neck, his hand guiding so that he would fatally pierce this ravager's life.

(Lines 143 - 148) Then with another stab he speedily pierced the ravager so that the chainmail coat broke: this man received a breast wound cut through the linked rings; through his heart stuck a deadly spear. The Earl was the better pleased: laughed then this great man of spirit, thanking the Creator for the day's work which the Lord had given him.

(Lines 149 - 161) And so then another warrior a spear from the other side flew out of hand, which deeply struck through the noble Aethelred's retainer. To him by his side stood a young man not fully grown, a youth on the battlefield, who valiantly pulled out of this warrior the bloody spear, Wulfstan's child, Wulfmaer the younger; and so with blinding speed came the shaft in reply. The spear penetrated, for that who on the Earth now lay among his people, the one who had sorely pierced. Went then armed a man to this Earl; he desirous of this warrior's belongings to take off with, booty and rings and an ornamental sword.

(Lines 162 - 174) Then Byrhtnoth drew his sword from its sheath broad and bright of blade, and then struck the man's coat of mail. But too soon he was prevented by a certain sea-scavenger, and then the Earl's arm was wounded. Fall then to the ground with his gold-hilted sword: his grip unable to hold the heavy sword, or wield the weapon. Then still uttered those words of the grey-haired warrior, encouraging the younger warriors, bidding to advance stoutly together. Not could he on his feet any longer stand firmly up, and so he looked to heaven: "I thank you, Lord of my people, all the joys which I on this world have experienced.

(Lines 175 - 180) "Now I ask, oh merciful Creator, the greatest hope that my spirit shall be granted salvation and that my soul to thee be permitted to journey and into your power. Oh King of Angels, with peace I depart. I only beseech that the fiends of hell shall not be permitted to harm me."

(Lines 181 - 184) Then he was slain by the heathen warriors; and both of those warriors which by him stood, Aelfnoth and Wulmaer, were each slain, close by their lord did they give up their lives.

(Lines 185 - 202) Then turned away from battle those that would not stay: there went Odda's child first to flight, Godric fled from the battle, and the noble abandoned the one which had given him often many a horse. He leapt upon the mount of the steed which had once been his lord's, on those trappings of which he was not fit, and he with his brothers galloped away. Godwine and Godwig, not caring for war, turned away from this battlefield and to the forest fled, seeking a place of safety and to protect their lives, and many more men than what is right were there, than if they had acted deserving and all remembered he who had to them all benefits did make. Thus had Offa on that day first said at the meeting place, there at the council, that there would be many a boastful speech which would not endure under a time of stress.

(Lines 202 - 208) So now was laid low the Chief of this army, Aethelred's Earl. All saw those sharers of the hearth that their lord lay slain. But then there advanced onward those splendid retainers, undaunted men hastening eagerly: they desired all one of two things, to leave life or else to avenge their dear lord.

(Lines 209 - 245) And so exhorting them to advance was the child of Aelfrices, Aelfwine, a warrior young in winters, then said in valiant talk: "Remember the speeches which we had often at mead spoken, that on the bench had loudly uttered vows, warriors in the hall, concerning bitter strife: Now may we prove who is truly valiant! I am willing that my royal descent be made known to all men, that I was of Mercian blood greatly kindred; my grandfather was named Ealhelm, a wise alderman and very prosperous. I shall not these people's liegeman reproach nor this army am willing to depart from and seek my homeland, now that my lord lies slain and hewn down in battle. Mine is that sorrow greatest: he was both my kinsman and my lord." Then he advanced onward, remembering with hostility, then with spear-point pierced one pirate in their host, to the ground lie slain with the weapon. He began then to exhorted his comrades, friends and compatriots, that they advance onward. Offa spoke, shaking his ashen spear: "Lo, thou Aelfwine, your words have thus reminded us liegemen of our allegiance. Now our people's protector lies slain, the Earl is on the Earth, and to us all our need is that one another encourage each other's warriors to battle, while with weapons we are still able to have and grasp, the hard blade, the spear and the good sword. To us has Godric, that cowardly sun of Odda, all betrayed. Many men believed, then when he rode on the horse, on that splendid steed, that it was our lord. Because of that happening here on the battlefield the people scattered, the wall of shields breaking asunder. Shame on that action, for because of him thus many a man was caused to flee!" Leofsunu spoke and his linden shield was raised, the board to defense; this warrior replied:

(Lines 246 - 273) "I swear, that from here I will not flee a foot's space, as my desire is to advance further, avenge in battle-strife my lord and friend. I have no desire among Sturmere's unyielding heroes to reproach my word, now that my patron has perished, that I now lordless go on a homeward journey, having turned away from battle, but rather I shall be taken by weapons, either spear or iron." Wrathfully he advanced, fighting resolutely, for he despised flight. Dunnere then said brandishing his spear, a simple yeoman calling out to the entire shore, exhorting that each warrior avenge Byrhtnoth: "One cannot retreat who intends vengeance for our lord of the host, if they care not for their lives." So then they pressed forward, caring not about their lives. Then began these retainers to fight fiercely, ferocious warriors armed with spears, and praying to God that they might avenge their lord and patron and on their enemy make death. Thus the hostage himself willingly helped; he was a Northumbrian of a brave family, Ecglaf's child; he was named Aescferth. He hesitated not at the play of battle, but shot forward many arrows; here striking a shield, there cutting down a warrior, at almost every moment giving out some wound, all the while with his weapon he wield.

(Lines 273 - 279) Yet still at the battle front stood Eadweard the tall ready and eager, speaking vaunting words that he would not flee a foot's ground, or turn away back to the bank, then leave his superior where he lay. He broke through that wall of shields and among the warriors fought, until upon those sea-men his bounteous lord he did worthily avenge, and on the battlefield lie slain.

(Lines 280 - 303) So did Aetheric, noble comrade, press forward and eager to advance the fight resolutely, Sibyrht's brother and very many others; splitting the enemy's shields, valiantly they defended themselves. Rang the shield rims, and sang the corselets of mail a certain terrible dirge. Then at the battle's height Offa sent a sea-farer to the Earth dead, and there Gadd's kinsman was laid low to the ground: soon it was at battle that Offa was hewn down. He had however accomplished that vow to his lord, his giver of rings, that he had uttered before, that either they both ride to the fortified home unhurt or else perish fighting on the battlefield and die of their wounds. He lay slain nobly near the lord of his people. Then it happened that the shields broke through. The sea-warriors advanced to battle enraged. Spear often pierced the doomed houses of life. Onward then advanced Wistan, Thurhstan's son, to fight these warriors. He was among the throng and slew three, before Wigelm's child lay slain in battle. There was severe combat. Stood firm did these warriors in battle. Warriors perished exhausted by their wounds. The slain fell dead to the Earth.

(Lines 304 - 308) Oswold and Eadwold, both of these brothers all this time, encouraged the soldiers, their beloved kinsman they exhorted through words that they needed to endure without weakening and make use of their weapons.

(Lines 309 - 325) Byrhtwold spoke, shield raised aloft --he was an old loyal retainer -- and brandished his spear; he very boldly commanded the warriors: "Our hearts must grow resolute, our courage more valiant, our spirits must be greater, though our strength grows less. Here lies our Lord all hewn down, goodly he lies in the dust. A kinsman mourns that who now from this battle-play thinks to turn away. I am advanced in years. I do not desire to be taken away, but I by my liege Lord, by that favorite of men, I intend to lie." So then did Aethelgar's child, Godric, enbolden them all to battle. Often he sent forth spears, deadly shafts sped away onto the Vikings; thus he on this people went out in front of battle, cutting down and smiting, until he too on the battlefield perished. This was not that Godric who from the battle had flown away...

The Seafarer

Another translation from Anglo-Saxon, circa 1991.  Of the Old English translations I worked on, this is the one I think I am the least satisfied with.

This poem is an elegy, told from the point of view of an old sailor. It can be found in the Exeter Book, (10th Century AD) but both the actual date of composition and the author are unknown (although some attempt has been made to attribute the work to Cynewulf).  The Wikipedia entry can be found here.

PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED to reproduce this translation, so long as the following conditions are met: 1) It is to be used for classroom or other educational purposes; 2) That it is not to be reproduced for profit; and 3) That the translation be properly credited to its translator, namely me (Douglas B. Killings). If you have any questions about reproducing this work, you may contact me at DeTroyes@sbcglobal.net. Thank you!

--DBK
 
The Seafarer
 
Verse Translation

I am able about myself to sing a tale
recounting my life, how I days of travail
and times of hardships often endured,
bitter heartfelt grief have suffered,
and experienced on ship many a sorrowful place,
while terrible waves tossed. Wherein often I drew
the anxious nightwatch at the ship's prow,
by the beating cliffs sail. Cold enshroun'd
were my feet, frost bound and
cold enchained, there then sorrow moaned
burning around my heart; a hunger from within rent
my sea-weary spirit. That men not grasp
what I in Earth's pleasantries passed,
how I on the wretched frigid seas
took winter's custom in the exiled pathways,
deprived of my dear kinsman,
while icicles hung, and hail storms flew.
There I did not hear any but the raging ocean,
and its ice-cold waves. Sometimes the song of a wild swan
I took for pleasure, the cry of a sea-bird
and the curlew's clamor instead of man's laughter,
sea-gull singing instead of mead drinking.
Storms beat on the craggy cliffs; the sea-swallow answered,
with frosted wings; while often the eagle screamed,
its wings wet with dew; and not any protecting kinsman
this destitute spirit was able to be comforted by.
For him that believes little, know that I have life's pleasures
experienced in cities, that I have known little adversity
while valiant and drunk with wine, yet how I wearily often
on the ocean's path would continue afterwards.
There would be the darkening night; snow from the North;
frozen rime binding the ground; hail falling to the Earth,
the coldest kernels. For that feeling how
my heart yearned to be on the sea,
the salt-sea waves rolling I alone would experience:
my spirit's desire on each occasion
was to the journey, that I distant lands far from here,
an alien country seek out.
For there is so proud no man over the Earth,
not born to greatness, not in youth that is valiant,
not in actions that are brave, not to his master is he so kind,
that he on his sea-voyage is not fearful,
of what his Lord wills to befall.
Not to a harp's music is his mind, nor to the receiving of treasure,
nor to the winning of a wife, nor to the joys of world's nature,
nor anything else but to the rolling waves;
to have a heartfelt longing for that which is on the sea to set out.
Forests blossoming with adornment, towns decked in loveliness,
meadows beautiful; all the world bears down;
all then prompt the spirit eager,
for the soul's journey, that which is intended,
on the sea-ways to far-away depart.
But then the cuckoo chortles his mournful voice;
sings as summer's sentinel, announcing sorrowful
and bitter innermost feelings. That men not know
if each are blessed with favor, and what one's suffering
in those exiled steps will place them to.
For this now my mind journeys over my heart,
my soul ranges among the oceans
and whales homeland passing far and wide,
over the Earthan expanse, comes again to me
eager and greedy, while the lone flyer crying out
urging me onto the sea my breast not resisting to go
over that trackless expanse. For this way I feel warmer in
the Lord's joy than this dead life,
fleeting away on land: I believe not at all
that these earthly riches will everlasting stand;
there are always the three circumstances which each
one meets his time to become changed:
disease or old age or the violence of the sword
doom the departure of the soul out of the body.
For those that whom nobles when speaking about the dead
praise those lives with the best reputations,
know it was brought about by he that shall about to go,
by his good deeds on Earth4 against the enemy's wickedness,
brave deeds against the Devil,
that this man's children shall afterwards praise,
and his praise afterwards to live among the angels
always and forever, eternal life's glory,
and joy with the heavenly host. The Days have departed
for all the splendor of the Earthan kingdoms;
there are not now Kings nor emperors
nor gold-giving lords such as there once were,
for they much among their own glory filled
and on magnificent renown lived.
Perish did this nobility all, their joys have passed;
remain still the weak and this world inhabit,
possessed through toil. Glory is cast down;
Earthan nobility grow old and wither
as thus now each man through-out the entire world:
old age on him overtakes his skin grows pale,
and grieves for his gray-hair, and remembrances of old friends,
young princes now given to the Earth.
No man him that the body, while that the life has been lost,
will not sweetness devour nor pain feel
nor hands stir nor among his thoughts consider.
Even though at that grave it will be desired to spread gold
by his brother, and to bury the dead
with various treasures so that he will be with them,
there is not a soul who is full of sin
whose gold can comfort for God's awful power,
that which was earlier buried instead of those that here have faith.
Great be the Creator's awful power, for it is he that changes the Earth;
that which is made a steadfast firm foundation,
the Earthan expanse and the heavens above.
Foolish be he who holds his Lord not dear: to him comes death unexpected.
Blessed be he who lives humbly: to him comes the grace of heaven.
The Creator makes steadfast the spirit, for those that are able to
Have faith. The man that shall control his headstrong spirit, and on that foundation live,
then that trustworthy man, his way is pure.
Each man shall with temperance govern
whether it be with love or with hateful malice,
though he may himself be wished full of fire
or else on a pyre consumed
by his past friend. Destiny is strong,
the Creator mightier than any man's conception.
Let us consider where our home is,
and then let us think how we may come thither,
and moreover how we must strive so that we may be allowed
into that eternal happiness
that is depended upon our lives in the love of our Lord,
and joyous expectation in heaven. This be that Holy thanks,
that he honors us with, the glorious Prince,
everlasting Lord, in all time. Amen.
 
 
Prose Translation

(Lines 1-26) About myself I am able to sing a tale recounting my life, of how I often endured days of toil and times of hardship, suffering bitter heartfelt grief, and experienced on ship many a sorrowful time and place, while terrible waves tossed. Wherein often I drew the anxious night watch at the ship's prow, as we sailed by the beating cliffs. My feet would be wrapped in cold, frost bound and ice enchained, and there sorrow would moan and burn around my heart; a hunger from within would tear my sea-weary spirit. Men cannot grasp what I've been through while traveling the pleasant Earth, how on wretchedly frigid seas I took winter's habit while traveling exiled pathways, deprived of my dear kinsman, while icicles hung and hail storms flew. There I did not hear anything but the raging ocean and its ice-cold waves. Sometimes I took the song of a wild swan for pleasure, or the cry of a sea-bird and the curlew's clamor instead of man's laughter, or sea-gull singing instead of mead drinking. While storms beat on the craggy cliffs, the sea-swallow answers, its wings frosted, while often the eagle screamed, its wings wet with dew. And there were none of my kinsman this destitute spirit could be comforted by.

(Line 27-57) For him that believes little, know that I have experienced life's pleasures in the cities, that I have known of little adversity while valiant and drunk with wine, and yet I would often wearily continue afterwards on the ocean's path. There would be the darkening night; snow from the North; frozen rime binding the ground; hail falling to the Earth, the coldest kernels for food. For that feeling how my heart yearned to be on the sea, the salt-sea waves rolling I alone would experience. My spirit's desire on each occasion was to the journey at hand, that I would sail to distant lands far from here, and seek out some alien country. For there is no man over the Earth so proud, not to greatness born, not in youth valiant, not in actions that are brave, not to his master be he so kind, that he on his sea-voyage is not fearful of what his Lord wills his fate to be. Not to a harp's music is his mind, nor to the receiving of treasure, nor to the winning of a wife, nor to the joys of world's nature, nor anything else but to the rolling waves and to have a heartfelt longing to set out for that which is on the sea. Forests blossoming with adornment, towns decked in loveliness, beautiful meadows; all the world's beauties bears down on the person -- all prompt the eager spirit for the soul's intended journey to depart on the sea-ways for far-away. But then the cuckoo chortles his mournful voice, and sings as the herald of the end of summer, announcing those sorrowful innermost feelings. Men do not know if each are blessed with favor, and which direction one's suffering in these exiled steps will place them to.

(Lines 58-93) For this now my mind journeys over my heart: my soul passing far and wide among the oceans and whales homeland on the great Earthan expanse, it comes again to me eager and greedy, while the lone flyer above cries out urging me onto the sea and my breast not resisting to go over that trackless expanse. For in this way I feel warmer in the Lord's joy than in this purposeless life, fleeting away on land. I do not believe at all that these earthly riches will stand everlasting. There are always the three circumstances under which each one meets his time to become transformed: disease, old age, or the violence of the sword doom the departure of the soul out of the body. For those that, when speaking about the dead, nobles praise as having the best reputations, know that it was brought about by the one that has died through his good deeds on Earth against the enemy's wickedness, and brave deeds against the Devil. This is what the man's children shall afterwards praise, and his praise afterwards shall live among the angels always and forever, in eternal life's glory, and joy with the heavenly host. The Days have departed for all the splendor of the Earthan kingdoms; there are not now Kings nor emperors nor gold-giving lords such as there once were, for on their own glory they filled and on magnificent renown lived. Perish did all this nobility, their joyous days have passed; remain still the weak who inhabit this world, possessed through toil. Their glory is cast down. Earthan nobility grows old and wither just as now each man through-out the entire world; on him old age overtakes his skin and grows pale, while he grieves for his gray-hair and remembrances of old friends, young princes now given to the Earth.

(Lines 94-124) There is no man whose body, while its life has been lost, will devour sweetness or feel pain or stir his hands or consider things among his thoughts. Even though at that grave his brother will desire to spread gold, and to bury the dead with various treasures so that he will be with them, there is not a soul who is full of sin whose gold can compensate for God's awful power, or for that which was buried instead of those that here have faith. Great be the Creator's awful power, for it is he that changes the Earth; it is that which makes a steadfast firm foundation for the Earthan expanse and the heavens above. Foolish be he who holds his Lord not dear: to him comes death unexpected. Blessed be he who lives humbly: to him comes the grace of heaven. The Creator makes steadfast the spirit for those that are able to have faith. The man that shall control his headstrong spirit, and on that foundation live, then the way of that trustworthy man is pure. Each man shall govern with temperance, whether it be with love toward loved ones or with hateful malice toward enemies, though he may himself be wished by his past friend to become full of fire or else on a pyre consumed. Destiny is strong, and the Creator is mightier than any man's conception. Let us consider where our home is, and then let us think how we may come to it, and moreover how we must strive to be allowed into that eternal happiness that is depended upon our lives in the love of our Lord, and joyous expectation in heaven. This be the Holy thanks that he honors us with, our glorious Prince, the everlasting Lord in all time. Amen.

The Fight at Finnesburg (A Fragment)

Another translation from Anglo-Saxon, circa 1991.

This poem is a fragment of a much longer work, now lost. It describes a battle between Danish and Frisians warriors in a place called "Finnesburg", the location of which is today not known with any certainty. Interestingly, an extended description of the same story can be found in "Beowulf", and several of the characters (Hnaef, Hengst) are mentioned in several other Germanic works, leading some scholars to speculate an historical basis for the story. The Wikipedia entry can be found here.

PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED to reproduce this translation, so long as the following conditions are met: 1) It is to be used for classroom or other educational purposes; 2) That it is not to be reproduced for profit; and 3) That the translation be properly credited to its translator, namely me (Douglas B. Killings). If you have any questions about reproducing this work, you may contact me at DeTroyes@sbcglobal.net. Thank you!

--DBK

The Fight at Finnesburg
(a fragment)
 
Verse translation:
 
...gables not burning."
Then cried aloud the young hero king:
"This is not the eastern dawn, nor is there a dragon flying;
nor are this Hall's gables burning.
But here carry our weapons forth. The birds sing;
the grey wolf cries. The spears shout;
the shield answers the shaft. Look how this moon shines
wandering under the cloudy heavens. Now arises those woeful deeds
which this people's enmity will carry out.
Now all awaken my warriors;
hold your linden shields; resolute in your strength;
unfurl your spear points; be steadfast in your courage!"
Then arose many gold-adorned thanes; their swords girded.
Then to the door went the noble champions,
Sigeferth and Eaha, (their swords drawn),
and at the other door Ordlaf and Guthlaf;
and Hengst himself returned on his footsteps.
At that time Garulf Guthere held back
so that he such a noble body would not first venture
through the Hall's door bearing his bejewelled weapons,
so that in the violent battle he would not be taken away;
but it was he who asked above all without concealment
what brave warrior was it who guarded the door.
"Sigeferth is my name," said he, "I am the Secgena's lord,
a wanderer known far and wide; many actions I have endured,
severe battles. What is here yet destined
of you two selves to me I am willing to seek out."
Then was that mead hall resounding in slaughter.
Then were those white shields on bold hands
breaking open the helmets. The fortress-floor resounded,
until in that fight Garulf fell,
foremost of all Earth dwellers,
Guthlaf's son; around him so too did many good
trustworthies, where the raven circled above
the gloomy and sallow-brown. Sword-flashing continued
and all around Finnsburuh was a fiery battle.
Never have I heard of more splendid men at war
than these 60 victory-heroes better behaved,
nor young warriors' white mead better repaid,
than did repay Hnaef's own warriors.
For five days they fought, and suffered not one fallen
noble-companion; but the doors held.
Then turned away one wounded hero another direction walked;
saying that his mail-armour had broken,
the vigorous army-clothing, and also was his cover pierced.
Then immediately asked he the guardian of the people
how then this battles wounded survive,
whether those other youths...
 
Prose Translation

(Line 1) ...gables are not burning."

(Lines 2-12) Then cried aloud the young hero king: "This is not the eastern dawn, nor is there a dragon flying; nor are this Hall's gables burning. But here we must carry our weapons forth. The birds sing; the grey wolf cries. The spears shout; the shield answers the shaft. Look how this moon shines, wandering through the cloudy heavens. Now arises those woeful deeds which this people's enmity will carry out against us. Now all awaken my noble warriors! Hold your linden shields; be resolute in your strength; unfurl your spear points; and be steadfast in your courage!"

(Lines 13-17) Then arose many gold-adorned thanes, their swords girded. Then to the door went the noble champions Sigeferth and Eaha, their swords drawn, while to the other door Ordlaf and Guthlaf went; Hengst himself meanwhile returned on his footsteps.

(Lines 18-27) At that time Garulf was held back by Guthere, so that such a noble person would not first venture through the Hall's door bearing his bejewelled weapons, and so in the violent battle be taken away. But it was Garulf who asked loudly what brave warrior was it who guarded the door on the inside. "Sigeferth is my name," said he, "I am the Secgena's lord, a wanderer known far and wide. Many conflicts have I endured, savage and severe battles. Whatever is yet destined for you two selves I am willing to seek out."

(Lines 28-42) Then was that mead hall resounding in slaughter. Then were those white shields on bold hands breaking open the helmets. The fortress-floor resounded, until in that fight Garulf fell, the foremost of all these Earth dwellers and the son of Guthlaf, while around him so too perished many good and trustworthies warriors, while a raven circled above the gloomy and sallow-brown dead. Sword-flashing continued and all around Finnsburuh was a fiery battle. Never have I heard of more splendid men at war than did these 60 victory-heroes better behave, nor was the white mead of young warriors' better repaid than did Hnaef's own warriors repay. For five days they fought, and suffered not one fallen noble-companion; and still the doors held.

(Lines 43-48) Then one wounded hero turned away and another direction walked, saying that his mail-armour, that vigorous army-clothing, had broken and also his helmet pierced. Then immediately asked the guardian of the people how were this battle's wounded surviving, whether those other youths...

12 November, 2012

Quick Note

For a variety of reasons (not just because of the recent election), I'm going to refrain from discussing any politics right now. I'm all politic'ed out.

Widsith

Another translation from Anglo-Saxon, circa 1991. As with my translation of The Dream of the Rood, this translation also appears to have been periodically used as class material in the teaching of Old English.

The poem itself appears to be a fragment of a much larger work, which sadly has not come down to us intact. The text fragment as we have it today survives as an excerpt in the Exeter Book, which is a compedium of miscellaneous Anglo-Saxon poetry compiled towards the end of the 10th Century AD. Thus, the work is generally believed to have been composed sometime in the 9th to 10th Centuries AD. The Wikipedia entry can be found here.

PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED to reproduce this translation, so long as the following conditions are met: 1) It is to be used for classroom or other educational purposes; 2) That it is not to be reproduced for profit; and 3) That the translation be properly credited to its translator, namely me (Douglas B. Killings). If you have any questions about reproducing this work, you may contact me at DeTroyes@sbcglobal.net. Thank you!

--DBK

Widsith
 
Verse Translation

Thus Widsith spoke, revealing a treasury of words,
he to the greatest degree of the tribes over the Earth,
and its peoples have traveled through; often he in the hall received,
valuable treasures. He from the Myrgings
his noble blood sprang. He with Ealhhilde,
the beloved peace-weaver, was on a journey,
the Victory King's village they sought
to the East of Angle, Eormanric,
the angry and traitorous. Thus he spoke these many words:
"Many people have I talked to, rulers mighty in power!
Obliged these people are in virtuous conduct to live,
one earl after another their country to rule,
he who his throne wishes it to prosper!
There was Hwala for a while the most noble,
and Alexander's entire kingdom
as well as his kin, and he was the most that thrived
which I have often on this Earth have heard reports of.
Attila ruled the Huns, Eormanric the Goths,
Becca the Banings, the Burgundians by Gifica.
Casere ruled the Creeks and Caelic the Finns,
Hagena the Holm-Riggs and Heoden the Gloms.
Witta ruled the Swaefe, Wada the Halsings,
Meaca the Myrgings, Mearchealf the Hundings.
Theodric ruled the Franks, Thyle the Rondings,
Breoca the Brondings, Billing the Werns.
Oswine ruled the Eow and the Eats by Getwulf,
Finn Folcwalding the Frisian-kin.
Sigehere the longest of the Sea-Danes ruled,
Hnaef the Hocings, Helm the Wulfings,
Wald the Woings, Wod the Thurings,
Saeferth the Sycgs, the Swedes by Ongendtheow,
Sceafthere the Ymbers, Sceafa the Longbeards,
Hun the Haetwars and Holen the Wrosns.
Hringweald was called the war-chief King.
Offa ruled the Angle, Alewih the Danes;
he was that man who was the bravest of all;
however he over Offa in valor did not pass,
for Offa forged first among men,
when he was but a boy, most of his nation.
No one of his time was in valor mightier
on the battlefield. Once with his sword
he gained the mark of excellence with Myrgings
by Fifeldor; his ground held afterwards
by Angles and Swaefe, so Offa could strike.
Hrothwulf and Hrothgar held the longest
peace together, uncle and nephew,
after they repulsed the Viking-kin
and Ingeldes to the spear-point bowed down,
hewn to pieces at Heorot the Heatho-Beard's army.
Therefore I passed through many foreign lands
and through spacious ground. Good and evil
there I became acquainted with while my native country was remote
tho my kinsman's spirit followed from afar.
Forwith that I may sing and to tell my tale,
before this illustrious host in the Mead-hall,
how my noble patrons chose to reward me.
I was with the Huns and with Hreth-Goths,
with Swedes and with Geats and with South-Danes.
With the Ven I was and with Vendels and with Vikings.
With the Gepids I was and with Wends and with Gefflegs.
With the Angles I was and with Swaefe and with Aenenes.
With the Saxons I was and with Sycgs and with swordsmen.
With the whalemen I was and with Deans and with Heatho-Reams.
With the Thyring I was and with the Throwen,
and with Burgundy, for there I received a ring:
there Guthere gave to me a bright treasure
my songs to reward. No paltry King was he!
With the Franks I was and with Frisians and with Frumtings.
With the Rugians I was and with Gloms and with Rome-Welsh.
So too I was in Italy with Aelfwine,
he had of all mankind, to my knowledge,
the easiest hand for praise to strive after,
encouraging generously the giving out of rings,
and a brilliant ring I was given, the child of Eadwin!
With the Saracens I was and with Serings.
With the Creeks I was and with Finns and with Ceaser,
he who a festive city of powerful might possessed,
riches and female slaves and Rome the great.
With the Scots I was and with Picts and with Scride-Finns.
With the Lidwicings I was and with Leons and with Longbeards,
with heathens and with heroes and with Hundings.
With the Isrealites I was and with Exsyringians,
with Hebrews and with Indians and with Egyptians.
With the Moides I was and with Persians and with Myrgings
and with Mofdings against the Myrgings,
and with Amothings. With the East-Thyrings I was
and with Eols and with Ists and Idumings.
And I was with Eormanrice for some time,
there to me the Goth king strove to be good;
he to me an ornament passed over, that founder of cities,
which therein was worth six-hundred in pure refined gold,
were the treasure portioned in a count of shillings;
this I to Eadgils the possession gave,
my protecting lord, when I to my dear home approached
with the reward, and there he to me some land passed over
in my father's native country, this ruler of the Myrginga.
And to me then Ealhhild another ring was given,
that noble queen, daughter of Eadwin.
So that her pleasant praise would extend through many lands,
I in song sang the praises of her,
wherein I under the brilliant [sky?] knew this great
woman ornamented with gold and dispensing gifts.
This with Scilling I declared in a clear voice
for the benefit of my noble lord and in great song,
loud and noisy was the harp that made me sound melodious,
and afterwards many men of spirits that were splendid
spoke words, that of all they were acquainted with,
it was never in song better proclaimed.
After that I passed through the entire realm of the Goths,
seeking I companions that were of the best variety;
such was the household of Eormanric.
Hethca sought I and Beadeca and the Herelings,
Emerca sought I and Fridla and the East Gotans,
wise and good, the father of Unwen.
Secca sought I and Becca, Seafola and Theodric,
Heathoric and Sifeca Hlithe and Incgentheow.
Eadwin sought I and Elsa, Aegelmund and Hungar,
and that stately company of the With-Myrgings.
Wulfhere sought I and Wyrmhere; often there foul conflict was not given up,
for that quick army was harsh with sword
around Vistula-wood where wearily they shielded
their old country from Attila's people.
Raedhere sought I and Rondhere, Rumstan and Gislhere,
Withergield and Freotheric, Wudga and Hama;
not that these comrades were the worst,
though I in the last place name in this song.
Often from that group hissing in flight
yelled the spear at fierce people;
pressing their rule to the gilded gold
of men and women, where Wudga and Hama.
So therefore I found at festivals out there on the cart,
that he who is the most beloved to country-dwellers
is one who is good to his heroes strong
whilst he posses his land, as long as he here lives."
Thus it is the course of bards to shape and to change into words
the splendor of men through-out the many lands,
profiting from what they say, and speaking words of glory,
traveling South or North they meet
recounting wisdom and giving praise,
before the retainers set up before authority,
their fame grows, until all departs,
light and life together; he works for this glory,
for beneath the heavens this glory is permanent.

 
Prose Translation

(Lines 1-9) Thus Widsith spoke, revealing a treasury of words, for he more than anyone has traveled among the tribes over the Earth, and among its peoples. Often he received in the halls valuable treasures. From the Myrgings his noble blood sprang. With Ealhhilde, the beloved peace-weaver, he was on a journey, seeking the Victory-King's village to the East of Angle; Eormanric, the angry and traitorous king. Thus he spoke these many words:

(Lines 10-34) "Many people have I talked to, including rulers mighty in power! Obliged these people are, one earl after another, that if they wish their throne to prosper and their country to rule, they must conduct their lives in virtue! For a while the most noble was Hwala, while also there was Alexander's entire kingdom and his kin; his kingdom was the largest that thrived of which I have often on this Earth have heard reports of. Attila ruled the Huns, Eormanric the Goths, Becca the Banings, and the Burgundians were ruled by Gifica. Casere ruled the Creeks, Caelic the Finns, Hagena the Holm-Riggs and Heoden the Gloms. Witta ruled the Swaefe, Wada the Halsings, Meaca the Myrgings, and Mearchealf the Hundings. Theodric ruled the Franks, Thyle the Rondings, Breoca the Brondings, Billing the Werns. Oswine ruled the Eow and the Eats were ruled by Getwulf, while Finn Folcwalding ruled the Frisian-kin. Sigehere ruled the Sea-Danes the longest, Hnaef ruled the Hocings, Helm the Wulfings, Wald the Woings, Wod the Thurings, Saeferth the Sycgs, the Swedes by Ongendtheow, Sceafthere the Ymbers, Sceafa the Longbeards, Hun the Haetwars and Holen the Wrosns. Hringweald was called the war-chief King.

(Lines 35-44) Offa ruled the Angle, and Alewih the Danes; here was a man who was the bravest of all! However, he never passed Offa in acts of valor, for Offa forged most of his nation first when he was but a boy. No one of his time was in valor mightier on the battlefield. Once with his sword he gained the mark of excellence with Myrgings by the River Eider; his ground held afterwards by Angles and Swaefe, so Offa could strike into the heart of the enemy.

(Lines 45-67) Hrothwulf and Hrothgar held the longest peace together, this uncle and nephew, after they repulsed the Viking-kin and forced Ingeldes to bow down before their spear-points, the army of that Heatho-Beard chief hewn to pieces at Heorot. Therefore I passed through many foreign lands and through wide open spaces. Good and evil there I became acquainted with while my native country was remote, tho my kinsman's spirit followed with me even from afar. Forwith that I may sing and to tell you my tale, before this illustrious host in the Mead-hall, know how my noble patrons chose to reward me. I was with the Huns and with the Hreth-Goths, with the Swedes and with the Geats and with the South-Danes. With the Ven I was with, and with the Vendels and Vikings. With the Gepids I was with, and with the Wends and Gefflegs. With the Angles I was with, and the Swaefe and Aenenes. With the Saxons I was with, and with the Sycgs and swordsmen. With the whalemen I was with, and with the Deans and Heatho-Reams. With the Thyring I was with, and with the Throwen, and with Burgundy as well, for there I received a ring: there Guthere gave to me a bright treasure to reward my songs. No paltry King was he!

(Lines 68-78) With the Franks I was with, and the Frisians and Frumtings. With the Rugians I was with, and the Gloms and Rome-Welsh. So too I was in Italy with Aelfwine, for he had, of all mankind to my knowledge, the easiest hand for praise to strive after, encouraging generously with the giving out of rings -- and a brilliant ring I was given, thank the child of Eadwin! With the Saracens I was and with the Serings. With the Creeks I was and with the Finns and with Ceaser, who possesed a festive city of powerful might, riches and female slaves and Rome the great.

(Lines 79-108) With the Scots I was with, and the Picts and the Scride-Finns. With the Lidwicings I was with, and the Leons and the Longbeards, and with heathens and heroes and the Hundings. With the Isrealites I was with, and the Exsyringians, and with the Hebrews and with the Indians and with the Egyptians. With the Moides I was with, and the Persians and with the Myrgings (and with the Mofdings against the Myrgings!), and with the Amothings. With the East-Thyrings I was and with the Eols and with the Ists and the Idumings. And I was with Eormanrice for some time, for there the Goth king strove to be good to me; that founder of cities passed over to me an ornament, which was worth six-hundred in pure refined gold, were the treasure portioned in a count of shillings. This possession I gave to Eadgils, my protecting lord, when I returned to my dear home, and there he passed over to me some land in my father's native country, such was the grace of this ruler of the Myrginga. And then to me Ealhhild, that noble queen and daughter of Eadwine, gave another ring. This so that her pleasant praise would extend through many lands, and thus I in song sang the praises of her, wherein under the brilliant [sky?] I told of knowing this great woman ornamented with gold and dispensing gifts. This with Scilling I declared in a clear voice for the benefit of my noble lord and in great song. Loud and noisy was the harp that made me sound melodious, and afterwards many men of noble spirits spoke to me, that of all the songs they were acquainted with, it was never in song better proclaimed.

(Lines 109-134) After that I passed through the entire realm of the Goths, seeking companions that were of the best variety; such was the household of Eormanric. Hethca I sought and Beadeca and the Herelings, Emerca I sought and Fridla and the East Gotans -- wise and good, that father of Unwen. Secca I sought and Becca, Seafola and Theodric, Heathoric and Sifeca Hlithe and Incgentheow. Eadwin I sought and Elsa, Aegelmund and Hungar, and that stately company of the With-Myrgings. Wulfhere I sought and Wyrmhere; often there foul conflict was not given up, for that quick army was harsh with sword around Vistula-wood where, wearily they shielded their old country from Attila's people. Raedhere I sought and Rondhere, Rumstan and Gislhere, Withergield and Freotheric, Wudga and Hama; not that these comrades were the worst, though I place them last in this song. Often from that group hissing in flight yelled the spear at fierce enemies; pressing their rule to the gilded gold of men and women, where Wudga and Hama. So therefore I found at festivals out there on the cart, that he who is the most beloved to country-dwellers is one who is good to his strong heroes whilst he posses his land, as long as he here lives."

(Lines 135-143) Thus it is the course of bards to shape and to change into words the splendor of men through-out the many lands, profiting from what they say and speaking words of glory, while traveling South or North they meet recounting wisdom and giving praise in front of those retainers set up before their authority. Their fame grows until all departs, light and life together; he works for this glory, for beneath the heavens this glory is permanent.



The Dream of the Rood

Time to reclaim some of my old work. First up, a translation (circa 1991) I made of the Anglo-Saxon poem "The Dream of the Rood". Strangely, I’ve recently found out that this translation is still being used in Anglo-Saxon literature classes, 20 some years after I wrote it.

The Wikipedia entry for this work can be found here.

Also included is a prose version of the verse translation. I don't believe that version has ever been posted to the 'net. I forget why I did it, although I seem to recall that at one time I had delusions of trying to translate all of the Anglo-Saxon poetic corpus with the intention of perhaps submitting it for publication.  Of these two translation versions, I think I prefer the verse translation, although the prose translation may be a little easier to understand.

PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED to reproduce this translation, so long as the following conditions are met: 1) It is to be used for classroom or other educational purposes; 2) That it is not to be reproduced for profit; and 3) That the translation be properly credited to its translator, namely me (Douglas B. Killings). If you have any questions about reproducing this work, you may contact me at DeTroyes@sbcglobal.net.  Thank you!

—DBK

*****

Originally written in Anglo-Saxon, circa 8th to 9th Century A.D.

Author unknown, although the work is sometimes attributed to the Anglo-Saxon poet Cynewulf, of whom nothing is known except his name.

Certain lines of the poem are also inscribed on an Anglo-Saxon runic cross, known as the Ruthwell Cross. The cross (about nine feet tall and made of stone) is thought to date from about the middle of the 7th century. It is not known if the poet was quoting the cross inscription, vice versa, or even if both are quoting from an unknown (and now lost) third source.

This work survives only in a codex known as The Vercelli Book, so-called because it was found in a monestary in Vercelli, Italy.

This translation is based on the edition of B. Dickens and A.S.C. Ross, (eds.), "The Dream of the Rood" (Methuen, London, 1937).

 
The Dream of the Rood
 
Verse Translation

Behold! The best of dreams I shall tell,
what I drempt in the midnight,
after mortal men upon couches dwell.
It seem to me that I perceived a rare and wondrous tree
extending on high a surrounding light
alit the wood brightly. All that beacon was
covered with gold; jewels studded
lovingly at its Earthan base, while likewise there were five
upon that shoulder-span. Behold there the Angel of God,
lovely through-out eternity. There was not an evil criminal on the gallows,
but it was at He there gazed the Holy Spirits,
men throughout Earth and all this glorious creation.
Wondrous was that Victory Tree, and I the sinner guilty
and badly wounded with stain. There I observed the glorious wood
adorned with garment that beautifully beamed,
garnished with gold; with it gems stood
covering splendidly the Lord's tree.
But nevertheless through that gold I understood
the wretched ancient struggle, when it first began
bleeding on the right side. I was with sorrow disturbed,
frightened for this stunning vision. Saw I that brilliant beacon
then change garment and color: sometimes with moisture soaked,
drenched in flowing blood, sometimes with treasure still adorned.
But nevertheless I there lay a long time I took
sorrowfully gazing at the Saviour's tree,
until then I drempt that it spoke;
beginning with these words the tree did decree:
"A long time ago-- yet still I remember--
that I was cut down from the edge of the timber,
and removed from my roots. Powerful fiends there held me off,
for a spectacle to make, command me a criminal to aloft.
I on their shoulders these men bore up the top of a hill to plant;
fastened there amid enemies aplenty. Then I saw the Lord of mankind
hasten with great zeal that he would on me climb.
There I did not dare to break God's word
and bend down or break, though I felt the tremble
of the Earthan surface. I might have been able
upon those fiends to fall, yet I stood stable.
"Then the young hero did disrobe -- that was God Almighty --,
strong and resolute; on the wretched gallows he did ascend,
bold and courageous as many observed for mankind's past he would amend.
Tremble did I as the hero embraced me; but yet I dared not bend,
and fall to the Earth's surface, therefore I stood firm.
A cross I became; lifted up with the mighty King,
the Heavenly Master; but yet I dared not bend.
With dark nails they pierced me: on me the scars are visible,
the open and malicious wounds. For him I dared not, so
no one did I injure. Mocked they us
both together. I was all with blood sodden
from the side of the Hero after his spirit was ceded.
Much ridicule on that hill did I experience
with this cruel event: The God of Hosts
hideously stretched out. Darkness had now
covered with clouds the Lord's corpse,
and its shining radiance; A darkness went forth,
black under the clouds. Weep all creation,
lament the King's fall: Christ was on the Cross.
"But then there hastened many from afar
to that Prince: I beheld it all.
I was with sorrow troubled, so bowed I did to the hands of men,
with great humility. They then took the almighty God,
and removed him from that bitter punishment. Left me then those warriors
sprinkled with blood; all badly wounded with spears.
They laid him down weary of limb, and at his head they stood;
gazing there at Heaven's Lord, as He there rested,
exhausted from his bitter struggle. A sepulcher they began to build
before the eyes of His tormenters, carved out of the brightest of stone,
there the Victorious Lord was placed; then they began a sorrowful dirge,
as evening time came. Afterwards they went
wearily from the glorious Prince; there he rested alone.
Even so there we wept a good while
standing afixed, after which departed
the warrior. His corpse grew cold,
that lovely body. Then men chopped us down
to the Earth; that was such a terrible event!
They buried us in a deep pit; but there the Lord's servants,

discovered us, [raised us from the grave,?]
and girded me with gold and silver.
"Now you may have heard, my dear beloved man,
of the deeds of evil men I have experienced,
sore and grievous they are. But now is the time
that I be revered far and wide
by men throughout the Earth and all this glorious creation,
should pray to this beacon. On me the Son of God
did suffer; for that I gloriously now
tower under heaven, that I might heal
each and everyone that shows awe of me.
Of old I was once the most bitter of tortures,
hated by people, until I showed him life's path
properly opened, before mortal man.
Behold, me the honored glorious lord
above all the trees of the forest, the Guardian of Heaven,
just as His mother, Mary herself,
almighty God all men
honor above all of womankind.
Now I do command, my dear beloved one,
that you this vision tell to man:
reveal the word that it is this glorious tree,
on which almighty God did suffer
for mankind's many sins
and Adam's misdeeds of old.
Death he there tasted; yet the Lord arose again
with his great power to help man.
He then to Heaven ascended. To here again
on this Middle Earth shall come to mankind
on Doomsday the Lord himself,
almighty God, and with his Angels,
that we will adjudge, using that power of judgment,
upon each individual as to their past lives here
in this fleeting life to prepare.
Nor may there any be not afraid
for the words that the Lord may say:
He shall ask before the multitude where is that man,
who in the Lord's name would take death's
bitter taste, just as He did before on the tree.
But they then shall be afraid and few will imagine
what to Christ they can begin to say.
Of no benefit then for anyone to be very frightened
if Him in their breast they carry this select of beacons,
and by virtue of the Cross shall come to the Kingdom
of Earth each and every soul,
to with the Lord desire to dwell."
Prayed I then to the tree in joyful spirit,
with great zeal, and then there I was alone
in small company. It was by my heart
urging on forward, the many experiences
do I long for. It is now my life's joyous hope
that I the Victory Tree may be allowed to seek
and moreover that all men,
eagerly honor it thus: it is my desire that
I grow great in spirit and that my hope of protection
is proper to the Cross.
Although I do not have many powerful
friends in this world, for they have left from here
and departed the worldly joys, and sought the wondrous King,
who lives now in Heaven with the Heavenly Father,
where they dwell in glory, so I look forward
each day to the time when my Lord's Cross,
which here on Earth I had earlier beheld,
will from this fleeting life carry me off
and bring me then there with great bliss,
the heavenly dream, there with the Lord's people
to be with always, there in perpetual bliss,
and I then shall live there ever after and allowed to
dwell in glory, with the Saints
and in joyful bliss. I shall be the Lord's friend,
who here on Earth did suffer once
on that gallows tree for man's sins:
He redeemed us and gave us life,
and a heavenly home. Hope has been renewed
with blessings and with bliss for those who endured the fire;
the Son was victorious on that journey,
powerful and successful, that he left with a large
army of souls to God's kingdom,
the Ruler almighty, to angelic bliss
he brought all the souls and came to Heaven
to dwell in glory, and that the Lord came,
the almighty God, there to his homeland went.



Prose Translation

(Lines 1-12) Behold! The best of dreams I shall tell, that I drempt at midnight, after mortal men where asleep in their beds. It seemed to me that I saw a rare and wondrous tree, which extended on high and surrounded by a light which lit the wood brightly. All of that beacon was covered in gold; jewels studded lovingly at its Earthan base, while likewise there were five upon the shoulder-span. Beheld there the Angel of God, being lovely through-out eternity. They did not behold an evil criminal on the gallows, but it was at Him did gaze the Holy Spirits, as well as men throughout the Earth and all of this glorious creation.

(Lines 13-17) Wondrous was that Victory Tree, and I the sinner guilty and badly wounded with the stain of sin. There I observed the glorious wood adorned with garments that beautifully beamed; it stood garnished with gold and gems covering splendidly the Lord's tree.
     
(Lines 18-23) But nevertheless through that gold I could perceive the ancient struggle of the wretched ones, as it first began bleeding on the right side. I was disturbed by sorrow, frightened by this stunning vision. I then saw that brilliant beacon change garment and color: sometimes with moisture soaked, drenched in flowing blood, sometimes with treasure [still] adorned.

(Lines 24-27) Nevertheless, I laid there a long time, gazing at the Saviour's tree, until I drempt that it talked. Beginning with these words the tree spoke:

(Lines 28-34) "It was a long time ago (yet I still remember) that I was cut down from the edge of the forest and removed from my roots. Powerful fiends there took me off to make of me a spectacle, commanding a criminal to loft into the air. On their shoulders these men bore me up to the top of a hill; fastened there amid enemies plenty. Then I saw the Lord of mankind come to me with great zeal, so that he would climb on to me.

(Lines 35-38) There I did not dare to break God's1 word, so I did not bend down or break, though I felt the Earth's surface tremble. I might have been able to fell2 those fiends, but I stood my ground.

(Lines 39-56) "Then the young hero disrobed (this was God Almighty); strong and resolute, to the wretched gallows he ascended. Beings bold and courageous as the many observed, he would redeem mankind's past. Tremble did I as the hero embraced me; yet I dared not bend and fall to the Earth's surface, so therefore I stood firm. A cross I became, lifted up with the mighty King, the Heavenly Master; but yet I still dared not bend. With dark nails they pierced me: on me the scars, the open and malicious wounds, are still visible. For Him I dared not break, so I did not injure anyone. They mocked us both together. After his spirit left the body, I was sodden with blood from the side of the Hero. Much ridicule on that hill I experienced with this cruel event, with the God of Hosts hideously stretched out. Darkness had now covered the Lord's corpse and its shining radiance with clouds. A darkness went forth, black under the clouds. All creation wept and lamented the King's fall: Christ was on the Cross.

(Lines 57-77) "But then there hastened to that Prince many from afar: I beheld it all! I was troubled with sorrow, so I bowed with great humility and courage to the hands of men. They then took the almighty God, and removed him from that bitter punishment. Left me then those warriors, all sprinkled with blood and badly wounded with spears. Weary of limb, they laid him down and at his head they stood, gazing there at Heaven's Lord as He rested there, exhausted from his bitter struggle. A sepulcher was constructed under the very eyes of His tormenters, carved out of the brightest of stone, and there the Victorious Lord was placed. Then, as evening time came, they began a sorrowful dirge. Afterwards, they went wearily away from the glorious Prince; there he rested alone. Even so many there wept a good while, afixed, after which the company departed. His corpse, that lovely body, grew cold. Then men chopped us down to the Earth; that was such a terrible event! They buried us in a deep pit; but then the Lord's servants discovered us,  [raised us from the grave,] and girded me with gold and silver.

(Lines 78-94) "Now you may hear3, my dear beloved man, of the deeds of evil men that I have experienced, sore and grievous they are. But now is the time that I be revered far and wide by men throughout the Earth and all this glorious creation, and should pray to this beacon. On me the Son of God did suffer; for that I now gloriously tower under heaven, that I might heal each and everyone that shows reverence of me. In olden times I was once made the most bitter of tortures, hated by people -- until I opened up for them life's path properly for mortal men. Behold, me the glorious lord honored above all the trees of the forest, the Guardian of Heaven! Just as He honored His mother, Mary herself, above all of womankind for the sake of men.

(Lines 95-121) Now I do command, my dear beloved one, that you tell this vision to man: reveal in words that it is this glorious tree, on which almighty God did suffer for mankind's many sins and Adam's misdeeds of old. Death he there tasted, but the Lord arose again with his great power to help man. He then ascended to Heaven. To this Middle Earth again He shall come to mankind. On Doomsday the Lord himself, almighty God, with his Angels He will adjudge, using that power of judgment upon each individual as they merited in their past, fleeting lives here did prepare them for. Nor will there be any afraid for what words the Lord might say: He shall ask before the multitude where is that man who, in the Lord's name, would take death's bitter taste, just as He did before on the tree. They then shall be afraid and few will imagine what they can begin to say to Christ. It is of no benefit, then, for anyone to be very frightened if with Him they carry this select of beacons in their breasts; by virtue of the Cross shall come to the Kingdom of Earth each and every soul which desires to dwell with the Lord."

(Lines 122-156) I then prayed to the tree in joyful spirit and with great zeal, and then I was alone. With my heart urging me on forward, there are many experiences I have longed for. It is now my life's joyous hope that I may be allowed to seek the Victory Tree, more than all men, to eagerly honor it thus. It is my desire that I grow great in spirit and that my hope of protection is proper to the way of the Cross. I do not have many powerful friends in this world, for they have left here, departing the worldly joys and have sought him the wondrous King, so their lives are now in Heaven with the Heavenly Father dwelling in glory, so I look forward each day to the time when my Lord's Cross (which here on Earth once beheld) will from this fleeting life carry me off and bring me there to great bliss, the heavenly dream, and to be with the Lord's people always in perpetual bliss. I then shall live there ever after and allowed to dwell, along with the Saints, in glory and joyful bliss. May the Lord be my friend, who here on Earth did suffer once on that gallows tree for man's sins. He redeemed us and gave us life and a heavenly home. Hope has been renewed, with blessings and bliss for those who endured the fire; powerful and successful, the Son was victorious on that journey and left with a large army of souls to God's kingdom, the Ruler almighty. To angelic bliss he brought all those souls and came to Heaven to dwell in its glory, and after the Lord came, the almighty God, went to his homeland.