Quiz AB — History / Lecture Facts — 20 cards

When is the Old English period?

500–1066 A.D

What did Rome call Britain, and what language did Romans bring?

Britannia, brought Latin.

Which three Germanic tribes invaded Britain around 449–450?

Angles, Saxons, Jutes.

Where does the name “England” come from?

The Angles.

What happened in 1066, and what language did the Normans bring?

The Normans conquered England and brought French.

What is syncretism?

When two religions blend together into a new belief system.

Who did Pope Gregory send to Britain in 597 A.D.?

Augustine, future Bishop of Canterbury.

What were monasteries important for?

Learning, literacy, and preserving culture.

Who was Bede?

A monk who wrote about English history in 731 A.D.

What were the two main written/spoken languages of this period?

Latin was used for religion and scholarship, while Old English was used by everyday people.

Name three features of the heroic code.

Courage, loyalty, glory, fate, vengeance, and honor.

What was the Anglo-Saxon gift system?

The lord gives protection/treasure, warriors give loyalty and service.

What two roles did aristocratic women play in Beowulf?

Peace-weavers and hostess duties.

What is comitatus?

Loyalty between a warrior and his king/lord.

What is wyrd?

Fate

What is wergild?

Blood money/payment for a killing.

What is a dream vision?

A dream with a journey that is usually connected to Christian faith.

What was the purpose of a bard / oral poetry?

To preserve history, celebrate warriors, and teach the tribe.

Why is Grendel monstrous?

Because he is violent, isolated, and descended from Cain.

What are common features of Old English poetry?

Oral tradition, alliteration, heroism, fate, death, and exile.