Old English Poems Translated into the Original Meter Together with Short Selections from Old English Prose

This volume brings together a representative selection of Anglo‑Saxon verse, rendered into modern English while faithfully following the original alliterative meter. The translators have kept the two‑half‑line structure and the characteristic stress patterns, so listeners can hear the same rolling cadence that shaped early English song. By staying true to the rhythm, the collection offers a rare chance to experience the poetry as it would have sounded to its first audiences.

Alongside the poems are brief excerpts of Old English prose that illustrate the everyday language of the period, from heroic tales to humble prayers. The selections reveal the values, fears and celebrations of a people whose worldview was woven into every line of verse. Whether you are a student of literature, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the roots of English storytelling, the recordings provide a vivid, approachable window into a foundational chapter of the language’s heritage.