On this day – The Kelmscott Beowulf
The tale of Beowulf [done out of the Old English tongue by William Morris and A.J. Wyatt. Syn.4.89.374
The tale of Beowulf [done out of the Old English tongue by William Morris and A.J. Wyatt.] was issued #OnThisDay in 1895.
Cambridge University Library holds not only two of the published copies, but also the proof-sheets of the work, with manuscripts notes and corrections by William Morris and A.J. Wyatt [classmark Sel.3.231].
They will be one of the star items of the spectacular free exhibition, Lines of Thought, opening on March 11, and of the free iPad app produced by the Library giving readers the chance to interact with digitised copies of six of the most revolutionary texts held in its collections.
I read Beowulf once. The version that I read is from BRITISH POETRY AND PROSE: A Book of Readings; Edited by Lieder, Lovett and Root; Houghton Mifflin Company, 1928. I recall the word BERYL being used as the hero enters the dragon’s cave. Are there any other minerals mentioned in the Old English translations?
I’m afraid we have no idea, but an interesting question!
Robert Proctor/ noted biliographer/ Kelmscott Press afficianado was presented with a vellum copy of Beowulf, personally signed by Morris. This copy was last heard of in 1958/ sold at Hodgkins( Auctioneer), London Chancery Lane.
Correction to my Comment re Proctor,s vellum copy of the Kelmscott Beowulf, this copy was sold by Hodgson,s, Chancery Lane Auctioneers in 1958.