How To Cite Beowulf Using Mla And Chicago Styles: A Comprehensive Guide

To cite Beowulf, follow either MLA or Chicago style. MLA uses in-text citations (author, line number) and a Works Cited page (Old English and Modern English titles, author, translator, publication date). Chicago uses footnotes or endnotes (line numbers, reference to Bibliography entry) and a Bibliography page (similar to MLA, including publisher). Include the original Anglo-Saxon title and a Modern English translation.

Citing Sources When Writing About Beowulf: A Comprehensive Guide

In the literary realm, Beowulf stands as an epic masterpiece that has captivated readers for centuries. When delving into discussions or analyses of this legendary poem, proper citation is not only essential for academic integrity, but also crucial for acknowledging the invaluable contributions of those who have dedicated their efforts to preserving and interpreting this literary treasure.

Why Citing Sources Matters

As you embark on exploring the depths of Beowulf, it is imperative to recognize the vast body of knowledge that has been accumulated over time by scholars, translators, and researchers. By citing your sources, you not only demonstrate respect for their contributions but also establish credibility for your own work. Moreover, it allows readers to trace the origins of your ideas and engage with the wider discourse surrounding the epic.

Two Main Citation Styles

When it comes to citing sources, there are two widely accepted styles: MLA (Modern Language Association) and Chicago (Notes and Bibliography). While each style has its unique conventions, both serve the purpose of providing readers with clear and consistent references to the sources you have consulted.

**MLA (Modern Language Association) Style: Citing **Beowulf***

When delving into the epic of Beowulf, it’s crucial to accurately cite your sources using the Modern Language Association (MLA) style. This widely accepted standard ensures credibility and consistency in academic writing.

In-Text Citations

For in-text citations, follow this format:

(Author’s Last Name, Title, Line/Page Number)

For example, “(Heaney, Beowulf, 100)” would cite line 100 of Seamus Heaney’s translation of Beowulf.

Works Cited Page

Your Works Cited page should be arranged in alphabetical order by author’s last name. Here’s how to format your Beowulf citation:

Old English Title:_ Beowulf_.

Modern English Title:_ _Beowulf_. _Translator's Name_. Publisher, Publication Date.

For instance:

Old English Title:_ Beowulf_.

Modern English Title:_ _Beowulf_. _Seamus Heaney_. W. W. Norton & Company, 2000.

Chicago (Notes and Bibliography) Style

• Footnotes or Endnotes:
  • Describe the use of superscript numbers for footnotes or endnotes.
  • Explain the format of the footnote or endnote, including the necessary information (line numbers, reference to the Bibliography entry).
  • Provide an example of a footnote or endnote for Beowulf.
• Bibliography Page:
  • Outline the structure of the Bibliography page.
  • Explain the order of information for the Beowulf citation, including Old English and Modern English titles, author, translator, publisher, and publication date.
  • Provide an example of a Bibliography page entry for Beowulf.

Chicago (Notes and Bibliography) Style: Citing Beowulf Like a Pro

When citing sources in the Chicago style, you have two options: footnotes or endnotes and a Bibliography page.

Footnotes or Endnotes:

Imagine these as tiny notes that follow your text, guiding readers to more information. They use superscript numbers to connect to specific points in your writing. Each note includes the line numbers you’re referencing and a reference to the Bibliography entry. For example, if you’re discussing Beowulf’s battle with Grendel:

1 Beowulf fights the monster with his bare hands (lines 854-863).

Bibliography Page:

This is your source list, where you provide full details for every source cited in your footnotes or endnotes. It’s arranged alphabetically by author’s last name. For Beowulf, the citation might look like this:

Beowulf. Edited by Francis Gummere. Modern Library, 2007.

Order of Information:

• Old English title: Beowulf
• Modern English title: Beowulf
• Author: (anonymous)
• Translator: Francis Gummere
• Publisher: Modern Library
• Publication date: 2007

Old English and Modern English Titles:

The original Beowulf was written in Old English. Translators have provided Modern English versions to make it more accessible. Both titles are essential for a complete citation.

Author: Anonymous Mystery

The original author of Beowulf remains unknown, adding an air of mystery to the epic. In citations, you can simply indicate “(anonymous).”

Translator: Bringing Beowulf to Life

Translators play a crucial role in bringing Beowulf to your fingertips. Their names deserve recognition in your citations.

Publication Date: Time Travelers of Literature

The publication date of your translation matters, as it indicates which version you’re using. This ensures that readers can locate the exact edition you’re referencing.

Additional Information:

• Old English Title:
  • Explain the significance of the original Anglo-Saxon title.
• Modern English Title:
  • Explain the purpose of providing a Modern English translation of the title.
• Author:
  • Discuss the anonymity of the original Beowulf author.
• Translator:
  • Explain the role of the translator in accessing Beowulf.
• Publication Date:
  • Discuss the importance of considering the publication date of the specific translation being used.

Additional Information on Citing Beowulf

Old English Title

The original Beowulf was written in Old English, the language spoken in England from around the 5th to the 12th centuries. Its title translates to “Bee-wolf” or “Bear-wolf,” a name that refers to the protagonist’s epic battle against the monstrous Grendel.

Modern English Title

When Beowulf is translated into Modern English, the title retains its significance, but it may appear differently. For example, Seamus Heaney’s translation is titled Beowulf: A New Verse Translation, indicating its status as an interpretation rather than a literal rendering.

Author

The author of Beowulf remains unknown, making it one of the most famous examples of anonymous literature. Theories about the author’s identity range from a Christian monk to a pagan scop (a storyteller). This anonymity adds to the mystique and allure of the poem.

Translator

Translations play a crucial role in making Beowulf accessible to readers today. Each translator’s interpretation offers a unique perspective on the poem. When citing Beowulf, it’s important to credit the specific translator who created the version you’re referencing.

Publication Date

The publication date of the translation you’re using is also significant. Different editions and translations may contain updated scholarship or annotations. Consider the publication date when evaluating the relevance and accuracy of the information you’re citing.