英国文学史及选读课件2TheSaxon-NormanPeriod.ppt

Unit 2 The Saxon-Norman Period (1066 - 1350) I. Background: 1. Norman Conquest: In the year 1066, at the battle of Hastings, the Normans headed by William, duke of Normandy, defeated the Anglo-Saxons and began the Saxon-Norman period. 2. The Consequence of Norman Conquest: The Norman Conquest brought England more than a change of rulers. 1) Politically, a feudalist system was established in England. 2) Religiously, the Rome-backed Catholic Church had a much stronger control over the country. 3) Culturally, A. Great change also took place in languages. After the conquest, three languages co-existed in England: a. Old English was spoken only by the common English people; b. French became the official language; c. Latin was used in church affairs by the clergymen and by scholars in universities. 3) Culturally, B. The conquest opened up England to the whole European continent so that with the introduction of the culture and literature of France, Italy and other European countries a fresh wave of Mediterranean civilization came into England. 4) Economically. England began to develop a steady trade relation with the European Continent. II. The Literature: 1. The literature which Normans brought to England is remarkable for its bright, romantic tales of love and adventure, in marked contrast with the strength and somberness of Anglo-Saxon poetry. 2. English literature is a combination of French and Saxon elements because of the formation of new English language. 3. Though the new literature was varied but had little worth or value. 4. There are many romances about Arthur --- the king of England and chief of Knights of the Round Table in the legend, not a true king. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is one among them. The Features of Romance 1. It lacks general resemblance to truth or reality. 2. It exaggerates the vices of human nature and idealizes the virtues. 3. It contains perilous adventures more or less remote from ordinary life.