Introduction to British Literature & the Anglo-Saxon Period

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the Introduction to British Literature and the Anglo-Saxon Period.

Anglo-Saxon Period

A significant time in British history from 449 to 1066 AD marked by the settlement of Germanic tribes in Britain.

Celts

Indigenous peoples of Great Britain who were known for their unique culture and pagan beliefs.

Roman Occupation

The period during which the Roman Empire controlled Britain, influencing language and infrastructure.

Norse Paganism

The pagan religion practiced by the Anglo-Saxons that centered around deities like Odin and Thor.

Wergild

A legal practice in Germanic law where a monetary value was assigned to a person's life.

Beowulf

The oldest surviving epic poem in English, reflecting Anglo-Saxon culture and conflicts.

Heroic Code (Comitatus)

The Anglo-Saxon moral code emphasizing loyalty to the king and bravery in battle.

Monastery

Centers of learning during the Anglo-Saxon period that preserved literature and knowledge.

Kennings

Compound expressions in Old English poetry used to replace simple nouns, often metaphorical.

Alliteration

The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words, used as a poetic device in Anglo-Saxon literature.