Background to Beowulf
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Transcript of Background to Beowulf
Background to Beowulf
The Region
Where British Literature Comes From
Why is this called the Anglo-Saxon Period?
In The Time Of Beowulf...
The Anglo-Saxon Period (The Emergent Period in Literature:450-1066) • Two major groups invaded England in this time period: The
Angles and the Saxons. • The literature was a juxtaposition of Christian and Pagan ideas • They were war-like tribes who valued fame and fortune and
believed strongly in FATE (WYRD). • Stories were told in the ORAL TRADITION and were told as
entertainment in MEAD HALLS by poets known as SCOPS
The Anglo-Saxon Period (The Emergent Period in Literature:450-1066) • “BEOWULF” is an EPIC POEM, which is a long narrative poem
that deals with the exploits of The Epic HERO (think Odysseus/The Odyssey)
• Characteristics: The epic takes place over a long period of time and has many settings. It often shows the interaction between humans and Gods/supernatural creatures. It is told in an ELEVATED STYLE.
• The Epic Hero must possess strength beyond a normal person and must be willing to sacrifice for the GREATER GOOD.
Old Manuscript
Modern Portrayal of the Saxons and Danes (after Beowulf but before England became unified)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxPApTGWwas
ROUGH Timeline449- Germanic tribes invade "England"500 (ish)- Events of Beowulf supposedly take place750- Surviving version of Beowulf composed (performed by scops)1000- Oldest surviving written version of Beowulf
871-King Alfred ascended the throne
While Reading...paraphrasing template
Poetic and Literary Devices• Alliteration- The repetition of consonant sounds at
the beginning of words. ex: Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck • Kenning- A compound phrase used to replace a
noun. ex: Instead of teacher, say: ‘homework giver’
Epic Characteristics• Grand, sweeping events
• Setting vast in scope
• An outstanding hero
• Vivid poetical language
• Emphasis on blood and death
• Supernatural forces
• Women of minor importance
Epic Hero• Strives for honor and fame
• Personal glory
• Valor and loyalty to homeland and lord/king
• Kindness
• Mildness
• Gentleness