Medieval English Literature Study Notes

A literary device that uses a metaphorical phrase to describe something, often with poetic language.

A heroic code of loyalty and bravery that emphasizes the importance of a warrior's duty to his lord.

A stylistic feature in poetry where a line is broken in two halves, creating a pause for emphasis.

A recurring symbol or character type that represents universal themes or ideas.

A strong sense of patriotism and opposition to the enemy, as seen in the contrast between loyal Saxons and villainous Vikings.

Dorigen's promise to marry Aurelius if he removes all the rocks from the shore. This promise is made in a moment of despair and desperation, believing it to be an impossible task.

The magician, touched by Aurelius' honorable withdrawal from the situation, decides to forgive the debt for the task he completed.

The dilemma Dorigen faces when she is confronted with the possibility of honoring her promise to Aurelius, which would mean breaking her vow to her husband.

The story demonstrates the value of loyalty and honor in the face of difficult choices. The characters, especially Dorigen and Aurelius, face situations where their actions have consequences for themselves and others.

Aurelius's brother's involvement in the story highlights the lengths to which people will go to help those they love. He seeks out magical help to fulfill Aurelius' desire to win Dorigen.

The theme of love is explored through numerous challenges, primarily involving supernatural elements.

The unsuccessful hunt by the fairy hunters symbolizes their inferiority to Sir Orfeo, highlighting his superior skills and power.

Music plays a significant role in maintaining order and harmony within the story's universe.

Spring signifies beauty, growth, and renewal, representing the positive aspects of life.

Heurodis' illness symbolizes chaos and instability, disrupting the balance of the kingdom.

Orfeo's unrecognized return mirrors the classical motif found in The Odyssey, where the protagonist returns home to find their identity challenged.

The story draws parallels with the Christian narrative, where Christ brings believers back from hell, similarly to Orfeo rescuing his wife.

The tale deviates from Ovid's myth of Orpheus in key aspects, including Orfeo's momentary lapse in courage, Heurodis' kidnap instead of death, and the nature of Fairyland.

In Beowulf, Beowulf battles a dragon that is enraged by theft from its lair. Beowulf's young kinsman, Wiglaf, is the only warrior who stays with Beowulf during the fight.

A recurring theme in Beowulf, where Beowulf is willing to bravely face dangerous opponents like Grendel and the Dragon knowing that he might be gravely injured or die.

An idea central to Beowulf, reflecting the predetermined fates of characters and how they may face tragedy or triumph. This concept is shown through Beowulf's fatal wound during the dragon fight.

Different expressions that refer to the same thing in Beowulf, often in a metaphorical way. This is used to create vivid imagery and add depth to the text.

The act of intentionally using a technique to alter the typical understanding of familial roles or relationships within Beowulf. This could be seen in the way Grendel's mother is depicted as having a similar power to Grendel.

A lake often associated with danger and mystery, as highlighted by Grendel's mother residing in one in Beowulf. It symbolizes a place of great power and potential danger.

A recurring theme in Beowulf, where the characters prioritize glory and fame over material wealth, showcased by Beowulf taking the head of Grendel's mother as a trophy instead of the treasure in her cave.

The House of Fame is a place dedicated to storing all important stories and people, located at the intersection of earth, sea, and heavens.

The eagle takes Geoffrey to the House of Fame as a reward for his poetic talent. This provides him with more stories to tell in his works.

In the poem, Fame is portrayed as a force beyond our control. It is not about actual merit or achievement, but simply about being remembered.

The poem explores how events and stories are reflected and recorded. This is represented by the waves in the air, echoing how information spreads and becomes part of the collective memory.

The reference to Jove 'stellifying' the soul alludes to the transformation of heroes into constellations, linking their stories to the stars.

The eagle's explanation of the House of Fame uses Aristotelian principles, emphasizing the concept of 'ratiocination' or logical reasoning.

The poem's third book, unfortunately incomplete, starts with an invocation to Apollo and provides further details about the House of Fame, including the names of famous people inscribed upon its walls.

The poem explores the nature of lasting fame and explores the relationship between human stories and historical records, ultimately suggesting that even the most fleeting fame can leave its mark on time.

An Anglo-Saxon epic poem written in Old English that explores themes of heroism, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil.

A monster who represents the negative forces of evil and a connection to Cain's sin.

Beowulf's character exhibits a strong sense of honor and a willingness to risk his life to defend his people.

A powerful and respected king who governs the Danes, seeking Beowulf's help to defeat Grendel.

Beowulf's fight against the dragon highlights the themes of greed, mortality, and the fleeting nature of worldly possessions.

The poem's structure utilizes anticipation, recollection, and repetition, creating a sense of cyclical events and the passage of time.

The poem’s narrator, a Christian voice, highlights the conflict between pagan values and Christian beliefs.

The poet's Christian values are evident in Beowulf's altruistic actions, fighting against evil forces that threaten civilization.

Known for his bravery, Beowulf is presented as a hero from birth and doesn't need to prove his heroic status.

Beowulf's actions are driven by a desire for fame and recognition, a key motivator for heroes within the Germanic tradition.

The poem is set in the late 5th or early 6th century in pagan Scandinavia, reflecting the period of the Anglo-Saxon settlement in Britain

The lack of mentions of Beowulf in other Anglo-Saxon manuscripts suggests a lack of historical evidence for Beowulf’s existence, reinforcing its fictional nature.

While Grendel is vilified, the poem portrays a glimpse into his perspective as an outcast, suggesting empathy for even the most monstrous.

Hrothgar's rule is established through his glory, and his subjects show obedience and respect for his strength and leadership.