Genesis A Translated from the Old English   By: Lawrence Mason (1882-1939)

This book is an extraordinary translation of the famous Old English epic, Genesis. Lawrence Mason has done a remarkable job of bringing this ancient text to life for modern readers. With his expertise in translating Old English literature, he has presented us with a captivating and highly readable version of Genesis.

The language used in this translation is both poetic and accessible, capturing the essence of the original Old English. Mason's skillful manipulation of diction and syntax allows the reader to fully appreciate the beauty and complexity of the language of the time. The text flows seamlessly, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the story.

Not only does Mason excel in maintaining the poetic quality of the original, but he also stays true to the spirit and meaning of the narrative itself. He pays great attention to detail, ensuring that the original themes and messages of Genesis are conveyed faithfully. From the creation of the world to the stories of Cain and Abel, Noah and the Ark, and the Tower of Babel, every scene is vividly depicted, bringing the characters and events to life.

One of the most impressive aspects of this translation is Mason's ability to capture the emotional depth of the characters. From the pain and anguish of Adam and Eve's exile from the Garden of Eden to the anger and jealousy that consumes Cain, the emotions of the characters are palpable and relatable. This allows readers to engage with the story on a deeper level, connecting with the characters and their struggles.

In addition to the excellent translation work, this edition of Genesis also includes informative notes and commentary by Mason himself. These annotations provide historical, cultural, and linguistic insights, enriching the reading experience and allowing readers to further understand the nuances of the text.

Despite being an ancient text, Genesis still holds great relevance today. It explores universal themes such as the nature of humanity, the consequences of temptation, and the power of faith. This translation by Lawrence Mason serves as an excellent introduction to this important piece of literature, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Overall, Genesis A Translated from the Old English by Lawrence Mason is a masterful translation that breathes new life into an ancient epic. With its captivating language, faithful depiction of the original narrative, and insightful commentary, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in Old English literature, religious texts, or simply engaging stories of human triumphs and failures throughout the ages.

First Page:

The purpose of the translator in offering to the public this version of the Genesis is to aid in forwarding be it by but one jot or tittle the general knowledge and appreciation of Old English literature. Professed students in this department will always have an incentive to master the language; but to the public at large the strangeness of this medium will prove an insurmountable barrier, and the general reader must therefore either remain in ignorance of our older literary monuments or else employ translations. The present contribution[1] to the growing body of such translations possesses, perhaps, more than a single interest or appeal, in that it renders accessible not only a poem of considerable intrinsic worth, a poem associated with the earliest of the great names in English literary history, and a forerunner and possible source of Paradise Lost , but also an important example of a literary genre once immensely popular, though now quite fallen into abeyance namely, the lengthy versified Scriptural paraphrase... Continue reading book >>