This innovative introduction to the Old English language focuses on what students need to know in order to engage with Old English literary and historical texts. Designed for a new generation, the book assumes no expertise in traditional grammar or in other languages.An opening chapter reviews basic grammar for those who need to be brought up to speed. 'Quick Start' sections begin the major chapters, allowing students to learn the basics of Old English quickly. 'Minitexts' accompanying most chapters give students practice in reading the language, while a detailed introduction to poetic meter and style helps them to read poetry. The book as a whole contains more than 200 illustrative quotations, fourteen Old English readings including 'The Wanderer', 'The Dream of the Rood' and 'Judith', and a comprehensive glossary. Supplementary readings and exercises are available at the 'Old English Aerobics' website - http://www.engl.virginia.edu/OE/OEA/ - which complements the text.