An introduction to Anglo-Saxon History, Culture, and the Epic Poem Beowulf
Think about the following questions and jot down your thoughts: List a few ideas about the culture of America. Generally, what do Americans feel are important in their lives? Where do Americans traditionally gather together as a community? How do these gatherings feed into cultural values? Finally, what qualities do Americans desire in a hero, either human or supernatural? How are these beliefs reflected in our culture?
Present day England was initially settled in the 4 th century by three groups, the Angles, Jutes, and Saxons. These later were referred to as the Anglo-Saxons. These settlers originated from Germany, Holland, and Denmark. They created Englisc, the earliest form of the English language. Englisc is a formation of other dominant European languages such as German, Dutch, and Latin. The map portrays the areas settled by the three groups. (O Malley, 2004)
(Beowulf, 2008) A typical mead hall, the heart of an Anglo-Saxon village. Anglo-Saxons lived in rural communities led by a king. They performed various jobs, such as farming, pottery, and blacksmithing. During the winter months, those loyal to the king would gather for a feast in the mead hall. There they would eat, drink, sing, and stay warm. The mead hall was the heart of the kingdom; citizens were invited for fellowship and entertainment. The mead hall in Beowulf is called Heorot, the center of festivities and, eventually, terrible acts of violence.
In its early years, paganism was the dominant religion of Britain s inhabitants. In the 6 th century, Christianity began to seep into Anglo-Saxon culture. Both pagan and Christian elements are mentioned throughout Beowulf. For example, Grendel is a terrifying demon said to descend from Cain, a Biblical character who killed his brother, Abel. This map shows the main regions/kingdoms of Anglo-Saxon England. (O Malley, 2004)
(Slade, 2003) This is the first page of the original manuscript of Beowulf. Beowulf is the first known piece of English literature. Authorship of the story of Beowulf is unknown. It may have been written by one individual; it may have been a legend carried down by generations. The original manuscript was written by 1026 AD, but the story may have originated anywhere between 521-1026 AD. The story was long forgotten in English culture but was rediscovered in the late 18 th century. It now has become canonized literature and is regarded as the hallmark Anglo-Saxon text.
This 1908 illustration depicts Beowulf battling the dragon. (Beowulf, 2008) Beowulf follows the adventures of a hero after whom the tale is named. Beowulf is a Geat (located in presentday Sweden) and renowned as a magnificent hero. The legend is broken into two larger parts. The first part of the story is set in the town of the Danish king Hrothgar. A hideous and murderous monster named Grendel (the descendant of Cain) rampages the kingdom. The second part follows our hero as he battles a fierce dragon.
Beowulf reflects many cultural values highly regarded by the Anglo-Saxons. As you read, you will see many of these themes illustrated by analyzing characters, narration, and dialogue. Focus on these elements and search for some of these values: Religion: Christianity vs. Paganism Heroism Identity Community/ Isolation Other prevalent themes (Slade, 2003)
Discuss the following questions with a partner. Refer to your ideas on American culture and your notes on Anglo-Saxons. Record your responses. If you lived in Anglo-Saxon England, what values would you place highly? Which of your notes supports this idea? How do the values you brainstormed compare to those you wrote about American beliefs? How are they similar or different? How do you predict Beowulf will be as an Anglo-Saxon hero? Do you think he would still be considered a hero today? Why or why not? How does a literary hero reflect the values of the society which he protects?
Allen, Syd (2005). Beowulf translations. Retrieved June 20, 2008, from Beowulf Translations Web site: http://www.beowulftranslations.net Beowulf. (2008, June 23). In Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Retrieved June 23, 2008, from Wikipedia Web side: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/beowulf O'Malley, Gillian (2004). BBC The anglo-saxons. Retrieved June 23, 2008, from BBC- The Anglo-Saxons Web site: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/anglosaxons/index.shtml Siddorn, Kim (2007 January 7). Regia anglorum. Retrieved June 23, 2008, from Regia Anglorum Web site: http://www.regia.org/ Slade, Benjamin (2003). Beowulf on Steorarum. Retrieved June 23, 2008, from Beowulf in Cyberspace Web site: http://www.heorot.dk/