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Characteristics of Anglo-Saxon Poetry

Characteristics of Anglo-Saxon Poetry. (applies to riddles, Beowulf, The Seafarer, etc.). Facts. Originally oral, not written Employs alliteration (repetition of initial consonant sounds) Employs kennings (descriptive, metaphorical phrases of 2-4 words). Kennings. Beowulf Grendel

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Characteristics of Anglo-Saxon Poetry

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

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

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

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

  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)

  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)

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

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

  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

  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

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