《英国文学史学生笔记》.docVIP

英国文学简史 Part one: Early and Medieval English Literature Historical Background When does early and medieval period refer to? “Early” here means English literature in primitive and slavery society. “Medieval” means English literature in feudal England before the Renaissance. 2. What main events happened during this period? Roman conquest English conquest Norman conquest Literature Achievements in old English period 1.two groups of English poetry in Anglo-Saxon period. The first group was the pagan poetry represented by Beowulf, the second was the religious poetry represented by the works of Caedmon and Cynewulf. 2. In the 8th century, Anglo-Saxon prose appeared. The famous prose writers of that period were Venerable Bede and Alfred the Great. Venerable Bede : is the first scholar and chronicler in England. The most important works : The Ecclesiastical History of the English People. Alfred the Great : started the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. Beowulf Definition of epic: an extended narrative poem in elevated or dignified language, celebrating the feats of a legendary or traditional hero. Story of Beowulf : P3-4 Questions : 1.setting :2. characters: 3.plot III. Some important points “Beowulf” is a folk legend brought to England by Anglo-Saxons from their continental homes. However it also reflected the features of the tribal society in Britain. Originally Beowulf, the great epic, was in oral form and it must be a collective creation. Beowulf in the epic is a legendary figure. In formal history you can not find a man named Beowulf. IV. Artistic features of “Beowulf’’ 1. Using alliteration Definition of alliteration: Words beginning with the same consonants alliterate with each other within each line. Each line of verse may contain an indefinite number of words or syllables but generally has four stresses, with a pause between the second and the third stresses. Some examples on P4 2. ·Using metaphor and understatement Definition of