Elements of Anglo-Saxon Poetry

Source:http://lhsblogs.typepad.com/kenyon/anglosaxon-lit-power-point.html

Anglo-Saxon PoetryOriginally oral and not written textPoetic Practices

Repetition Repetition of consonant sounds

Kennings two to four-word poetic re-namings of people, places,

and things, such as whales’ home for the seaCaesura

rhythmic breaks in the middle of lines, where the speaker would pause for breath

Assonance the repetition of vowel sounds in unrhymed, stressed

syllables (ex. “batter these ramparts”)

Beliefs and Traditions (Theme)WYRD or fate controls lifeHonor requires revenge/compensation for

injury or death (WERGILD)Love of war and violenceLove of treasure, wealth and prosperity

(results of bravery)

Beliefs and Traditions (Theme)Loyalty to family/tribeLove of stories, especially hero storiesBelief that nothing good ever lastsLove of rituals: feasting, burial, etc.Unwritten contract between king and

warrior: generosity for loyalty (COMITATUS)

Qualities of Anglo-Saxon Warrior Hero (and a life of honor)-Characterization

Excellence, competence, skillIn battleIn sailingIn riding

Qualities of Anglo-Saxon Warrior Hero (and a life of honor)-Characterization

Great strength (even superhuman strength)Loyalty (especially to the king)Devotion to duty, eagerness to fightGenerosityLove of fame, glory, boasts

Characteristics of Epic Literature(such as Beowulf)

Reveals the traditions, customs of the people

Grand/large in its scope: geography, time

Lofty/formal languageEmploys the supernatural

Characteristics of Epic Literature(such as Beowulf)Battle between good and evilIllustrates man in a hostile environment, the

sacrifice of the heroGenerally concerns the noble deeds of a

warrior-hero and his companions

What is a Seafarer?

One who goes to sea, of course.

How many different Seafarers will we hear from in the narration?

Our Fragment shows two voices:

The Old SailorThe Youth

Will the voices differ in their view of life at sea?

Will the voices differ in their view?

We’ll soon see.