Anglo-Saxon Literature Quiz
48 Questions
1 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Which of the following works focuses on appreciation of literature?

  • Woodberry's Appreciation of Literature (correct)
  • Gummere's Handbook of Poetics
  • Caffin's Appreciation of the Drama
  • Dowden's The Interpretation of Literature
  • Beowulf is considered the oldest epic poem in English literature.

    True (A)

    Name one work that deals with the criticism of literature.

    Gayley and Scott's An Introduction to the Methods and Materials of Literary Criticism

    The period known as the Anglo-Saxon or Old-English Period spans from ______ to ______.

    <p>450, 1050</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the literary works with their respective genres:

    <p>Beowulf = Epic poem Gummere's Handbook of Poetics = Poetry Caffin's Appreciation of the Drama = Drama Raleigh's The English Novel = Novel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which author wrote 'Sesame and Lilies'?

    <p>John Ruskin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What genre does 'The Fight at Finnsburgh' primarily represent?

    <p>War song (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    All literary criticism works listed are modern texts.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Hnæf and his warriors were victorious in the fight at Finnsburgh.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the prologue in Beowulf?

    <p>It provides a splendid poetical conception and sets the stage for the story.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is the character that gives a warning with a sorrowful note?

    <p>The cuckoo</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The poem 'Waldere' describes the story of Walter of Aquitaine and his betrothed bride, __________.

    <p>Hildgund</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following characters with their corresponding actions or roles:

    <p>Hnæf = Defense of a hall Walter = Escaped with treasure Finn = Attacker in the fight Hagen = Former comrade of Walter</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What notable element characterizes 'The Fight at Finnsburgh'?

    <p>Descriptions of ravens and wolves (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The saga of Waldere originated with the Anglo-Saxons.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How long did the fight last in 'The Fight at Finnsburgh'?

    <p>Five days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Beowulf give to the young warrior before his death?

    <p>A golden collar, helm, armlet, and corslet (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Beowulf's warriors celebrated his life with a feast immediately after his death.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the people of the Weders build in remembrance of Beowulf?

    <p>A mound</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The warriors kindled a mighty _____ fire in remembrance of Beowulf.

    <p>bale</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following items with their descriptions:

    <p>Bale fire = A large fire used for a funeral Helm = A protective headgear worn in battle Mound = A raised structure for memorial purposes Neck collar = A piece of jewelry worn around the neck</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is referred to as 'the last Waegmunding of our race'?

    <p>Beowulf (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How long did it take to build the mound for Beowulf?

    <p>Ten days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The warriors of Beowulf's people chose to bury his wealth with him.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which scholar is known as 'the father of our English learning'?

    <p>Bede (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Bede's translation of the Gospel of John into Anglo-Saxon has been preserved.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary focus of the Northumbrian School of monks?

    <p>Anglo-Saxon literature</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Bede wrote almost exclusively in ______.

    <p>Latin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following figures with their contributions:

    <p>Bede = Ecclesiastical History of the English People Cædmon = Earliest English poet Cynewulf = Anglo-Saxon poet noted for religious themes Gildas = Early British historian</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which monasteries served as the center for the Northumbrian School?

    <p>Jarrow and Whitby (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Bede's works were mostly unknown and not widely copied.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What extraordinary view did Bede hold regarding miracles?

    <p>He believed in miracles as commonly accepted by the people of his time.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the poem 'Andreas' primarily focus on?

    <p>The conversion of cannibals (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    St. Andrew is portrayed as a ship-master in the poem 'Andreas'.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is sent to search for the true cross in the poem 'Elene'?

    <p>Helena</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Cynewulf signed his name in ______ in the poem 'Elene'.

    <p>runes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following elements from the poems with their descriptions:

    <p>Andreas = Rescue of St. Matthew Elene = Searching for the true cross Vision of the Rood = Insight into Cynewulf's heart Constantine = Vision before battle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the impact of the Danish invasion on Northumbrian literature?

    <p>Many monasteries and schools were destroyed. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Cynewulf is known for his signature style and is considered an anonymous poet.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the scholars do after Alfred drove back the Danes?

    <p>They translated literature into the West Saxon dialect.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one reason the Anglo-Saxons came to England?

    <p>They were seeking wealth and land (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The ideal of woman in Anglo-Saxon culture was similar to that of the Romans.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the title of the epic poem that tells the story of a hero fighting monsters?

    <p>Beowulf</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The _____ Book is a collection of Anglo-Saxon texts.

    <p>Exeter</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following Anglo-Saxon texts with their contents:

    <p>Beowulf = An epic poem about a hero's battles The Christ of Cynewulf = A religious poem concerning Christ Cædmon's Paraphrase = A poetic retelling of biblical stories The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle = A historical record of England</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes all great literature according to the suggestions?

    <p>Emotional resonance and timeless themes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Anglo-Saxon poetry was written in a metrical form similar to modern poetry.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What virtues did the Anglo-Saxons admire in men?

    <p>Courage and loyalty</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Beowulf's significance

    Beowulf is the earliest and greatest epic poem in English literature.

    Epic Poem

    A long narrative poem about heroic deeds.

    Anglo-Saxon period

    Historical period in English history from 450 to 1050.

    Literary Criticism

    Analysis and interpretation of literary works.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    General Bibliography

    A list of books for reference in a specialized area.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Prologue (in Beowulf)

    An introductory section of Beowulf, not part of the main story.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Scyld

    King of the Spear Danes, in the prologue of Beowulf.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Spear Danes

    Group mentioned in the prologue of "Beowulf".

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Beowulf's Barrow

    A large burial mound built for Beowulf, a famous warrior, on Hronesness.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Wiglaf

    A thane (loyal warrior) who aided Beowulf in his final battle.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Dragon's Death

    The dragon met a similar fate as Beowulf, dying beside him on the beach.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Warrior's Lament

    The Geats mourned Beowulf, praising his bravery and kindness.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Memorial Mound

    A large monument built to honor Beowulf's significant life and legacy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Geats' People

    Beowulf's people who mourned his death.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Treasure Hoard

    Valuable items like gold and jewels left in the mound, of little use in the moment of grief.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Beowulf's Death

    Beowulf and the dragon both died in battle in the same location, by the sea.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Fight at Finnsburgh

    A 50-line fragment of an Anglo-Saxon poem about a battle in a hall.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Hnæf

    Leader of the warriors defending the hall in the 'Fight at Finnsburgh'.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Waldere

    A warrior and hostage (from Aquitaine), whose story is told in a fragment.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Anglo-Saxon poems

    Old English poems, often about battles or heroic figures.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Hrothgar's gleeman

    A singer/poet who performs at Hrothgar's feasts, celebrating victories in the Heorot.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Finn and his army

    Enemy forces who attack the hall in the 'Fight at Finnsburgh'.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Fragment

    A piece of a larger work; part that remains from an original text/poem.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Nibelungenlied

    A tenth-century Latin poem about similar characters to Waldere.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Anglo-Saxon Literature

    Early English literature written by Anglo-Saxons

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Beowulf

    An important Anglo-Saxon epic poem

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Anglo-Saxon ideals

    Values and beliefs of the Anglo-Saxons

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Relation of history and literature

    The connection between historical events and written works

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    History of Early English Literature

    Study of English literature before modern times

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Beowulf's value

    Reasons why the poem is relevant for all time

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Anglo-Saxon social views

    The social views and structure of Anglo-Saxons

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Northumbrian School

    A group of Anglo-Saxon writers and scholars, primarily monks, who made significant contributions to Anglo-Saxon literature.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Bede

    A prominent member of the Northumbrian School, known as "the father of our English learning", who wrote extensively in Latin.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Ecclesiastical History of the English People

    Bede's most important work, a historical account of the English people, combining accurate scholarship with elements of folklore.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Bede's approach to historical accuracy

    Bede's historical approach was meticulous, as he carefully considered all available sources and sought testimony from knowledgeable individuals.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Age of Credulity

    The period in which Bede wrote was characterized by a strong belief in miracles and supernatural events.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Importance of Bede's work

    Bede's Ecclesiastical History provides valuable insights into Anglo-Saxon history and culture, despite its inclusion of fantastical stories.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Irish missionaries' influence

    The Irish missionaries played a crucial role in converting Anglo-Saxons to Christianity, fostering a sense of heroism and kindness that influenced Bede's writing.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Bede's belief in miracles

    Bede, like his contemporaries, believed in miracles and incorporated them into his writing, reflecting the cultural context of his time.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Cynewulf's Poetic Art

    Cynewulf's mastery of poetry reaches its peak in "Andreas" and "Elene" - two epic poems that showcase his skill and creativity.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Andreas

    This unsigned poem recounts the story of St. Andrew's sea voyage to rescue his comrade, St. Matthew, from cannibals. It's full of action and exciting descriptions of the sea.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Elene's Subject

    This poem tells the story of the discovery of the True Cross, inspired by Constantine's vision and Helena's journey to Jerusalem.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Cynewulf's Signature

    Cynewulf includes a personal note in "Elene" - a signature in runes, adding a personal touch to his work.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Vision of the Rood

    Cynewulf's possible work, which reveals his personal connection to the cross, suggesting a quest for spiritual understanding.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Northumbrian Literature's Decline

    The flourishing of Northumbrian learning and literature was abruptly cut short by the Danish invasions.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Impact of the Danish Invasions

    The Danes destroyed monasteries, schools, libraries, and scholars, leading to the near complete loss of Northumbrian literature.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Alfred's Preservation Project

    Alfred the Great's scholars translated and preserved remnants of Northumbrian literature from West Saxon sources, ensuring its survival.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Study Notes

    Anglo-Saxon Literature

    • Key Works: Beowulf, "Fight at Finnsburgh," "Waldere," Andreas, Elene, Bede's Ecclesiastical History of the English People

    Beowulf Summary

    • Epic Poem: Earliest and greatest epic in English literature.
    • Prologue: Not essential to the story, but showcases the poetic conception of Scyld, a Spear Dane king.
    • Hero's Death (Summary): Beowulf, (prototype of King Alfred) died fighting a dragon, mourned by his people. A large mound was built in his memory, marking the hero's valor.
    • Themes: Unselfish heroism, generous grief, memorialization of heroes, the importance of remembering brave deeds.
    • Poem's Value: Recognized as a timeless work, depicting a brave man's death (and emotional responses) – a powerful portrait unmatched in world literature.

    Anglo-Saxon Poetic Qualities

    • Metrical Form: Differs from modern poetry (details not specified).

    Andreas and Elene

    • Themes: Andreas: Rescue of St. Matthew from cannibals and their conversion by a miraculous act; Elene: The finding of the Cross of Christ.
    • Style: Andreas—spirited poem with sea descriptions; Elene—uneven quality, culminating with Cynewulf's self-insertion.

    Other Key Figures

    • Bede (673-735): First great English scholar, "father of English learning." Mostly wrote in Latin, including Ecclesiastical History of the English People.
      • Historical Accuracy: Bede meticulously researched, relying on various authorities (Pliny to Gildas) and testimonies from pilgrims and monks.
      • Credulity: Bede also recorded miracles, reflecting the era's belief system.
      • Importance: Provided crucial knowledge of eight centuries of British history.

    Northumbrian School

    • Location: Monasteries in Northumbria (Jarrow, Whitby).
    • Key figures: Bede, Cædmon, Cynewulf (allegedly).
    • Decline: Danish invasion destroyed monasteries and libraries, ending a critical period of scholarly output.
    • Preservation: A few surviving fragments, primarily translated versions (West Saxon dialect).

    General Works (Suggestions for Further Study)

    • General Literary Appreciation: Woodberry's Appreciation of Literature, Gates's Studies in Appreciation, Bates's Talks on the Study of Literature, Worsfold's On the Exercise of Judgment in Literature, Harrison's The Choice of Books, Ruskin's Sesame and Lilies, and Matthew Arnold's Essays in Criticism.
    • Literary Criticism: Gayley and Scott's An Introduction to the Methods and Materials of Literary Criticism, Winchester's Principles of Literary Criticism, Worsfold's Principles of Criticism, Johnson's Elements of Literary Criticism, Saintsbury's History of Criticism.
    • Poetry: Gummere's Handbook of Poetics, Stedman's Nature and Elements of Poetry, Johnson's Forms of English Poetry, Alden's Specimens of English Verse, Gummere's Beginnings of Poetry , Saintsbury's History of English Prosody.
    • Drama: Caffin's Appreciation of the Drama.
    • Novel: Raleigh's The English Novel, Hamilton's Materials and Methods of Fiction.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Related Documents

    Description

    Test your knowledge of key works in Anglo-Saxon literature, including Beowulf, Andreas, and Elene. Explore themes of heroism, valor, and the poetic qualities that define this historical period. This quiz will challenge you on important literary concepts and memorable characters.

    More Like This

    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Browser