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Characteristics of Anglo-Saxon Poetry

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Presentation on theme: "Characteristics of Anglo-Saxon Poetry"— Presentation transcript:

1 Characteristics of Anglo-Saxon Poetry
(applies to riddles, Beowulf, The Seafarer, etc.) 1

2 Facts Originally oral, not written
Employs alliteration (repetition of initial consonant sounds) Employs kennings (descriptive, metaphorical phrases of 2-4 words) 2

3 Kennings Beowulf Grendel Grendel’s mother Hrothgar Higlac Wealtheow
Ocean Sun dragon 3

4 Repetition (of words, entire phrases, stories)
Understatement (saying less than is meant) Gory details References to God/wyrd/fate 4

5 Beliefs and Traditions
WYRD or fate controls life Honor requires revenge/compensation for injury or death (WERGILD) Love of war and violence Love of treasure, wealth and prosperity (results of bravery) 5

6 Loyalty to family/tribe Love of stories, especially hero stories
Belief that nothing good ever lasts Love of rituals: feasting, burial, etc. Unwritten contract between king and warrior: generosity for loyalty (COMITATUS) 6

7 Qualities of Anglo-Saxon Warrior Hero (and a life of honor)
Excellence, competence, skill In battle In sailing In riding 7

8 Great strength (even superhuman strength)
Loyalty (especially to the king) Devotion to duty, eagerness to fight Generosity Love of fame, glory, boasts 8

9 Characteristics of Epic Literature (such as Beowulf)
Reveals the traditions, customs of the people Grand/large in its scope: geography, time Lofty/formal language Employs the supernatural 9

10 Battle between good and evil
Illustrates man in a hostile environment, the sacrifice of the hero Generally concerns the noble deeds of a warrior-hero and his companions 10

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