Anglo Saxon Period 449-1066
Anglo Saxon Period In 449, three groups invaded Britain Angles Saxons Jutes
Anglo Saxon Period Anglo-Saxons Drove the natives from the eastern, central, and southern areas Became known as “Angles Land” or England Germanic language developed into “Angle-ish” or English
Anglo Saxon Period Anglo Saxons Originally started out with several tribal units organized by a king. Witan= council of elders who would choose the king for each tribal unit Tribal differences ceases, kingdoms intertwined until there were 7 tribes left 1. Essex 2. Wessex 3. Sussex 4. North Umbria 5. Mercia & the Midlands 6. East Anglia 7. Kent
Anglo Saxons & Religion Anglo Saxons were Pagans Paganism= polytheistic religion; Fate vs. Personal Freedom Christians believe that all individuals have the freedom to make their own choice Early Anglo Saxons worshipped ancient gods of German mythology
Anglo Saxons & Mead Hall All {social} events began and ended at Mead Hall Mead: Fermented beverages made from honey (Think of beer made from honey) The hall was built by the local lord or king for the entertainment of the Thanes Thanes: warriors and soldiers loyal to the local lord or king
Anglo Saxons & Mead Hall Feasting Hall Great Hall of the King Safest Place in the Kingdom Appearance Rectangular Pointed roof Middle trench on the inside for fires Two long, low tables on each side of the trench Supported by rows of columns
The Anglo Saxon Man Athletic Strong Seafaring Adventurous Strong belief in fair play
Anglo Saxons Ideals Loyalty to Lord or King Great love of personal freedom Respect for women Love for glory Honored the truth
Anglo Saxons Literature Mostly oral stories, especially riddles Written Poetry (Beowulf) Doesn’t Rhyme Uses alliteration Uses Kennings Metaphor often hyphenated ex. Whales-path= sea Symbolism with Seasons Spring: Youth Summer: Adult Autumn: Old Age Winter: Death