Old and Middle English Literature Review

Comprehensive practice flashcards covering Old English poetry styles, Beowulf, Middle English genres, and the works of Chaucer and Malory.

During what time period did Old English literature exist, and when did it begin?

Old English literature existed from the $5^{th}$ to the $11^{th}$ century A.D., beginning after the Anglo-Saxon invasion of Britain in the $5^{th}$ century.

What name was given to the poets who memorized and recited early oral literature in Old English tradition?

They were called "scops."

What are the common themes found in Old English literature?

Themes focused on warriors, battles, the sea, bravery, and the harshness of life.

What are "kennings" in the context of Old English literary devices?

Kennings are two words combined as a mild translation, such as "whale road" for the ocean or "wave-floater" for a ship.

Who is considered the father of Old English poetry, and what is his most famous work?

Caedmon is considered the father of Old English poetry, known for "Caedmon’s Hymn," which praises the creation of heaven and earth.

What specific poems are contained in the "Exeter Book"?

It contains "The Wanderer" (a monologue of a lonely old man) and "The Seafarer" (a sailor's reflection on life).

Which manuscript contains the poem Beowulf?

The Cotton Vitellius.

Who initiated "The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle," and how long did its recording last?

It was initiated by King Alfred the Great and continued until the $12^{th}$ century.

In Beowulf, what are the names of the two locations the story is set in?

The story is set in Geatland (modern-day Sweden) and Denmark.

What are the names of the three main monsters Beowulf fights?

Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and a dragon.

How long did Beowulf rule as king of Geatland before the dragon attacked?

He ruled wisely for fifty years.

Which event in $1066$ marked the beginning of the Middle English period?

The Norman Conquest, when William the Conqueror from Normandy defeated the English king Harold II.

By which year did English become the official language of the English Parliament?

By $1363$.

How is a "Chivalric Romance" defined in Middle English literature, and what is a famous example?

These are stories about knights, heroism, and adventures; an example is "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight."

What is the difference between fables and fabliaux in medieval tales?

Fables are stories with moral lessons, while fabliaux are humorous stories.

Which work by Sir Thomas Malory is a prose collection detailing the life and adventures of King Arthur?

Morte d’Arthur.

How many pilgrims are featured in Geoffrey Chaucer’s "Canterbury Tales"?

$30$ pilgrims.

What is the primary focus and narrative style of the "Canterbury Tales"?

It focuses on human individuality, different medieval genres, and social classes, utilizing simple language, low style, insults, and slanders.