(H) Brit Lit Sem 1 Study Guide

What is an Epic Poem?

A long narrative poem that follows a hero on a quest, involving struggles against odds, supernatural elements, and cultural values.

What is the Hero’s Journey?

A narrative structure in epics with stages like Call to Adventure, Trials/Challenges, Abyss/Final Battle, and Return Home.

What are common Epic Characteristics?

Heroic deeds, good vs. evil, supernatural forces, lofty language, and cultural values of loyalty and bravery.

Define 'In medias res.'

Starting a story in the middle of the action.

What is an Invocation to the Muse?

A call upon divine inspiration to narrate the story.

What are Catalogues in epic poetry?

Lists of items or warriors used for dramatic emphasis.

What is an Epic Simile?

Long, detailed comparisons that elevate the narrative.

What does Paganism emphasize in themes?

A focus on nature, fate (wyrd), and multiple gods.

What are the main themes of Christianity in literature?

Divine salvation, morality, and Biblical allusions.

What is 'Lof' in Anglo-Saxon culture?

The concept of glory and fame that ensures immortality through one's legacy.

What does 'Wyrd' refer to?

Fate or destiny, central to Pagan beliefs.

What is Wergild?

Compensation paid to resolve feuds or killings in Anglo-Saxon culture.

What are Kennings?

Compound metaphors like 'whale-road' for ocean.

What are Epithets?

Descriptive phrases used to characterize someone.

Define Alliteration.

Repetition of initial consonant sounds in a phrase.

What is a Frame Narrative?

A story within a story.

What is Situational Irony?

An unexpected outcome different from what was anticipated.

What is a Soliloquy?

A speech revealing a character’s inner thoughts.

What distinguishes Blank Verse from other poetry?

Unrhymed poetry written in iambic pentameter.

What characterizes Medieval Romance?

Stories involving knights, quests, moral tests, and supernatural elements.

What is the code of Chivalry?

The conduct code for knights emphasizing bravery, loyalty, and courtesy.

What is Satire?

Critique of societal issues using humor, irony, or exaggeration.

What does 'Ethos' signify in arguments?

Appeals to credibility or ethics.

What is a Metaphor?

A direct comparison between two unlike things.

Define Simile.

A comparison using 'like' or 'as'.

What does Personification mean?

Giving human traits to non-human things.

What is a Conceit?

An extended metaphor connecting vastly different ideas.

What symbol does Grendel represent in Beowulf?

Evil and chaos.

Who is Beowulf?

A Geat hero embodying loyalty and strength, who fights Grendel and others.

What role does Hrothgar play?

The King of the Danes, representing wisdom and leadership.

What does the Green Knight symbolize?

Nature and moral testing in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.

What are the main themes of A Midsummer Night's Dream?

Love, dreams, and transformation.

What is a key theme in Beowulf?

Heroism and the conflict of fate vs. free will.

What does the Mead-hall symbolize?

Community and safety in Beowulf.

What does the Forest symbolize in A Midsummer Night’s Dream?

Chaos and freedom from societal rules.

What historical context defines the Medieval Culture?

Feudalism, chivalry, power of the Church, and the role of knights.

What represents the Renaissance?

Revival of classical art and literature, and exploration of individuality.

What do we know about the themes in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight?

Chivalry, honesty, and human imperfection.

What is Irony in literature?

The expression of one meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite.