Waltharius - The Latin Epic of Walther of Aquitaine

“The most engaging translation available of one of the most important medieval epics.” - R. D. Fulk , Indiana University “This is a book that every person interested in the Middle Ages should want to own.” - Joseph Harris , Harvard University “ Waltharius brilliantly illuminates the so-called Dark Ages. Any reader can enjoy this lively rendering of an epic that fuses Latin learning with Germanic legend.” - Marijane Osborn , University of California, Davis “Tremendous! A rich introduction unveils the fascinating history behind Waltharius . Copious notes shed light on its interpretation. The Latin text is included, and the riveting verse translation brings the poem vividly to life.” - Geoffrey Russom , Brown University Waltharius is one of the great monuments of medieval European literature. Set in a fifth-century world of Goths, Huns, Franks, and Burgundians, this poem from the ninth or tenth century tells a lively tale of adventure, treachery, and combat. It recounts the daring escape of Walther and his betrothed, Hildegund, from the court of Attila the Hun, the pursuit of the lovers by Gunther and the Franks, and the moral dilemma of Hagen, who is torn between conflicting loyalties. In their new edition and translation, professors Brian Murdoch and Leonard Neidorf endeavour to make Waltharius more accessible and appealing than it has ever been before. In addition to a facing-page presentation of the Latin text and the modern English verse translation, this book contains an extensive introduction, ample notes, and other supplementary materials. Brian Murdoch is Professor Emeritus of German at Stirling University. His works include Kudrun (1987), The Germanic Hero (1996), and Three Political Tales from Medieval Germany (2024). Leonard Neidorf is Distinguished Professor of English at Shenzhen University. His works include The Art and Thought of the Beowulf Poet (2022) and Translation and Commentary (2023).