英美文学chapter1.ppt

By Xie Lixiang Chapter 1The Old and Medieval Period Historical Background the earliest inhabitants—Celts Roman Britain—from the 1st century to the beginning of the 5th century the Anglo-Saxon Period the Anglo-Norman Period Chapter 1The Old and Medieval Period 2. Anglo-Saxon Period (the period of Old English Literature) 2.1. Time: 449-1066 2.2. Influence: a. the Germanic language and culture b. the ancestors of the present English people c. a transition from tribal society to feudalism 2.3. Language: old English—the foundation of English language and literature. Chapter 1The Old and Medieval Period Secular/ Pagan group: the Anglo-Saxons brought with them in the form of oral sagas or epic poems Beowulf: 2.4. Poetry: Religious group: the writings developed under teaching of the literary monks. Caedmon: the “Father of English Song”/ the first important religious poet Chapter 1The Old and Medieval Period Beowulf (贝奥武夫) Beowulf was written by an unknown scribe. the first great English literary work/ national epic poem Contents Literary features: alliterations, metaphors, understatements, (a figure of speech in which a writer or speaker deliberately makes a situation seem less important or serious than it is), pagan Chapter 1The Old and Medieval Period 3. Anglo-Norman Period (the Medieval Period) 3.1. Norman Conquest: 1066,Hestings Battle 3.2. Influence: a. Feudal system was established; b. The Rome-backed Catholic Church had a much stronger control over the country c. Three languages co-existed in England including French, Latin and old English. Chapter 1The Old and Medieval Period 3.3. Literature Form: Romance Subjects: “Matter of France”, “Matter of Rome” and “Matter of Britain” Features: a. Romantic tales of love and adventure b. A combination of French elements and Saxon elements c. Absorbed French vocabulary and became the English language Chapter 1The Old and M