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Questions and Answers
What themes characterize Anglo-Saxon poetry?
Anglo-Saxon poetry often features themes of endurance, fidelity, melancholy, and a connection to the primal elements of life.
How did Anglo-Saxon prose differ from its poetry?
Anglo-Saxon prose was easier to understand and followed the rules of ordinary speech, unlike the more complex structure of poetry.
Who were the two key figures in the development of Anglo-Saxon prose?
The two key figures were Alfred the Great, who translated Latin Chronicles, and Aelfric, who wrote sermons in poetic prose.
What significant event concluded the Anglo-Saxon period?
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Approximately what time frame does the Anglo-Saxon or Old English Period cover?
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What are the five great principles that the Anglo-Saxons followed?
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How did the Norman Conquest impact Anglo-Saxon literature?
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What elements of life did the Anglo-Saxons value, according to the passage?
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What is the relationship between the Anglo-Saxon language and modern English?
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What cultural influences dominated English thought during the Middle English period?
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Study Notes
Anglo-Saxon Poetry
- Anglo-Saxon poetry is different from the poetry of the Middle English period, it reflects a different way of life
- The poetry is fierce, melancholy but reflects the endurance of the people
- Anglo-Saxon prose began during the Anglo-Saxon Period
- Alfred the Great translated Latin Chronicles and Aelfric wrote sermons
Anglo-Saxon Period
- Anglo-Saxons settled in England
- The Anglo-Saxon or Old English Period in English literature lasted from 670 A.D. to 1100 A.D.
- Anglo-Saxons combined opposing character traits including savagery, sentiment, rough living and deep feeling
- They lived a rich external and internal life which is reflected in their literature
- Anglo-Saxon literature reflects love of freedom, responsiveness to nature, religion, love for women and the struggle for glory
- The Anglo-Saxon language is a branch of the Indo-European family of languages, this language forms the basis of modern English
Middle English Or Anglo-Norman Period
- The Normans conquered England in 1066 A.D.
- Anglo-Saxon authors were displaced after the Norman Conquest, and English literature was transformed
- The Anglo-Norman period is also known as the Middle English Period
- The Anglo-Norman period was openly influenced by Latin
- The period is marked by the use of French language and the adoption of French literary forms
Giles Fletcher
- Giles Fletcher wrote Christ's Victorie and Triumph in Heaven and Earth over and after Death which described the Atonement, Temptations, Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ
- Fletcher's work reflects the influence of Spenser and Milton
- Fletcher's work is in keeping with seventeenth century theology which considers man as a puny creature in the divine scheme of salvation
William Browne
- William Browne wrote Britannia's Pastorals
- Browne's work is a combination of allegory and satire
George Wither
- George Wither wrote The Shepherd's Hunting, Fidella, and Fair Virtue, the Mistress of Philarete
- Wither's poetry is often pastoral
- Wither is known for his didactic and satirical verse
William Drummond
- William Drummond was a Scottish Poet
- His poetry shows the influence of Spenser, Sydney and Shakespeare
John Milton
- Milton's early poetry is noted for its lyricism
- Milton wrote Hymn on the Nativity, L'Allegro, Il Penseroso, Lycidas, and Comus
- Milton's poetry includes sonnets
- Milton worked as the Latin Secretary to Cromwell
- Milton became blind during his later years
Restoration Poetry
- Restoration poetry was often satirical and realistic
- Restoration poetry was frequently written in the heroic couplet
- John Dryden was a key figure in the restoration period
- Dryden's early poetry was influenced by the metaphysical school
- Dryden's later poetry is more clear and forceful, and helped establish the classical school of English poetry
- Dryden wrote political satires, Doctrinal Poems, and The Fables
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Description
Explore the unique characteristics of Anglo-Saxon poetry and its cultural significance during the period from 670 A.D. to 1100 A.D. Discover how the literature reflects the endurance, sentiments, and life of the Anglo-Saxon people, and the linguistic roots that contribute to modern English. This quiz delves into the themes and influences shaping this rich literary tradition.
