Abstract This paper discusses, analyzes and compares two poems from the Anglo-Saxon era. The poems include "The Wife's Lament" and "Wulf and Eadwacer". Each piece of literature is representative of society and culture more than five thousand years ago. Both poems are written from a narrative perspective of a woman mourning the absence of her husband. The poems also depict how woman were owned, controlled and repressed."
From the Paper "Around the third century, three Germanic tribes -- the Angles, the Saxons, and the Jutes -- migrated from other areas of Europe to England as part of a general movement of Germanic peoples who conquered much of Europe, including Rome itself (Gordon 111). During that time, the Celts (or Britons) inhabited England, and they continued to be the dominant people in Scotland and Ireland for several years to come (Harris 205). After the invasion of England, the Anglo-Saxons became the dominant people in the country. They brought along their Anglo-Saxon language (i.e., Old English) and a strong literary tradition that included oral poetry, which was spoken or sung. The Anglo-Saxon Era began in 450 A.D. and ended around 1066 AD (Harris 204)."
Abstract This paper looks at the evidence available which explains the war tactics and strategy of the Anglo-Saxons. It shows the Anglo-Saxons to have had a well-trained warrior elite, but nevertheless insufficient to resist being conquered in the end.
From the Paper "The poem of the Battle of Maldon is our main source for study about the nature of late Anglo-Saxon warfare. This heroic poem, glorifying the Ealdorman who dies for his king and country, displays many important facets of the way the Anglo-Saxon peoples conducted warfare. The main threat was the Nordic marauders that would regularly raid the settlements of the Anglo-Saxons. It was against these raiders that the majority of Anglo-Saxon tactics and strategy were prepared. The buhrs of the Anglo-Saxons were the main defense against these raiders, but once these buhrs fell into disrepair it was mostly the forces of the sheriffs, thanes, and ealdormen left to defend their territories. The forces of the kingdom were composed of levies, an elite core of warriors, and then the auxiliary naval forces."
Tags: ages, anglo, british, medieval, middle, saxon, war, warfare
Abstract In this article, the writer studies the status of Anglo-Saxon women after 1066, by examining the book ''Women in Anglo-Saxon England and the Impact of 1066' by Christine Fell. The writer notes that 1066 was the year that William the Conqueror took control of Saxon England and that Anglo-Saxon England was never to be the same, nor was the life of England's daughters, wives, and mothers. The writer points out that while before different kings held feudal sway over their territories, now the Norman code of conduct, custom, and law ruled the land with absolute authority. The writer discusses that in the book 'Women in Anglo- Saxon England and the Impact of 1066', medieval scholar Catherine Fell suggests that Anglo-Saxon women after the conquest did not simply lose many of the rights, legal, and social respect they had enjoyed as Englishwomen, but simply as women in general.
From the Paper "The first sections of Christine Fell's scholarly work are filled with exact details of life during the era to substantiate her point. She draws from contemporary accounts and existing records to examine the law and custom regarding marriage and women's legal status. For example, Anglo-Saxon marriage contracts between families were considerably more equitable than the types of relationships contracted under Norman feudalism and were celebrated in the Norman literary tradition of chivalric romance. Although marriages were contracted between the relatives of the wife and husband neither the prospective bride nor groom had more influence in the matter because of gender."
Abstract This paper examines the content of "The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle" as a primary historical source for the creation of English and England. It shows how the work of historian Venerable Bede documents England prior to the "Chronicle" and details religious and cultural life in that era, while the Chronicle focuses on the broader historical scale of war. It also focuses on the linguistic significance of the "Chronicle" the first important piece of English prose.
From the paper:
"One of the most important aspects of 'The Angle-Saxon Chronicle' is that it is the first continuous national history of any western people in their own language. Written down by a succession of generations of scribes, 'The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle' covers such fundamentally important events in the history of early England as the migration of the Saxon war-lords, the results of the Romanization of Britain, the onslaught of the Vikings, the Norman Conquest and on the reign of Stephen."
Abstract This paper discusses the fact that the Anglo-Saxons reused Roman buildings over the time period from the 5th century to the 8th century in the Upper Thames Valley in Great Britain. The paper investigates the towns in this area and analyzes the reasons why some of the towns were brought back to use, whereas others were not. It also examines the manner in which the buildings were reused, the process of change over time and the differences between the reuse of housing as compared to public buildings. Finally, it provides a conclusion drawn from the research.
Outline
Introduction
Manner and Method of Anglo-Saxon Roman Building Reuse
Reuse of the Roman Buildings in Towns of the Upper Thames Valley
Motivation Behind Reuse
The Process of Change Over Time
The Disuse of Housing
Conclusion and Analysis
From the Paper "Past studies have implied that these Roman ruins were important to medieval builders simply as cheap and convenient sources of stone. Building materials were selected according to their qualities and availabilities, and in some instances, because of particular qualities. In many cases, however, the functionality of particular material overrode the aesthetic qualities and durability of a particular material. Research indicates that a building stone used initially because of particular aesthetic qualities may be reused at a later date purely for convenience and necessity. An additional value to the examination of building materials, where it can be shown they are reused is that the presence of reused materials may indicate the presence of archaeological sites that are currently unknown (Windsor, 2004). "
Abstract This paper examines the content and significance of the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle." It begins by discussing in general about the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle" and provides some basic background information about the document. The paper then closely examines a few key figures from the "Chronicles", such as Canute the Great, Harold Harefoot and Edward III. The paper illustrates the way that the document presents key information about events and individuals in the medieval history of England and Europe.
From the Paper "The value of the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle to historians of medieval Europe is nearly innumerable. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle provides a clear record of the major events that occurred in England from the time it was first written in the late 9th century until the 12th century AD. In addition, the authors traced back events to the birth of Christ, providing a comprehensive history of England and her people, written by the first people who could be historically called English. Scholars of medieval history can utilize this text to provide a fuller understanding of the lives and events that shaped the historical development of England and Europe."
Tags: medieval, Canute the Great, Harold Harefoot, Edward III
Abstract This paper compares and contrasts the German, Japanese and AngloSaxon (USA) management and culture. Areas that are used for comparison include national and organizational culture, the economy, organizational aims, management styles, employment practices, approaches to promotion and other businesses and institutions. Arguments as to which style is the most successful are also provided.
From the Paper "Companies, like countries have identifiable cultures. An organizational culture is the combination of shared values and beliefs of members of organizations and is affected by the cultures of society. There are three main cultures and styles of management including Anglo-Saxon, which incorporates the Unites States and Great Britain, Japanese and German. Each culture has its preferred ways of co-coordinating and controlling. Culture influences a company's behavior, linking different jobs, rules and procedures. Organizational culture can undergo change. Schein (1992) believes that only statements can be made about elements of culture and not culture in its entirety due to the complexity of the issue."
Abstract This paper investigates the nature of the unheroic in classic tales from the Anglo- Saxon period in English literature. Of note are the saga of "King Arthur" and of "Beowulf", which are discussed in respect to the unheroic characters that are manifest in both works. This paper demonstrates that the unheroic character is not the opposite of a heroic character, but rather embodies qualities that are separate from those of a hero. In demonstrating this argument, it is shown that for a character to embody "unheroic" traits that they need not be villains but rather are a different type of character altogether.
Abstract This article examines how AngloSaxon Protestant core values promote political unity and cultural homogeneity in American society. The writer discusses tensions caused by multiculturalism in the American society.
From the Paper "United States culture and society are the product of historical and ongoing immigration characterizing the U.S. as multicultural. A democracy and pluralistic society, the U.S. is also characterized by the core values of a dominant class of white Anglo Saxon men. This class uses its significant wealth and political power to reinforce through various institutions. For centuries, political unity and cultural homogeneity were the norm in the United States. However, due to an increasing number of ... "
Abstract This paper briefly examines how the invasion of the Anglo-Saxons in A.D. 449 influenced the history, geography and culture of Britain. In particular it discusses their influence on the English language and the eventual introduction of Christianity.
From the Paper "The introduction of Christianity in the Anglo-Saxon period had a significant effect on their language. In the year A.D. 597 the Christian Latin vocabulary was introduced in England. St. Augustine and about 50 monks came to Britain to spread Christianity to the savage warriors. St. Augustine was fortunate to land in the small kingdom of Kent, which contained a small Christian community. King Aethelbert of Kent was married to a Christian woman so he allowed St. Augustine to preach and attempt to convert the English, but he warned him that most people would not easily abandon their long held beliefs. (McCrum et al., 1993). It took the Christians seven years to convert the majority of Kent. In Origins of the English Language it is noted that, "By 700 [A.D.] England could be called a moderately Christian nation" (Williams, 1975). "
Abstract The paper compares and contrasts the various Anglo-Saxon characteristics in "Beowulf" and shows how they are critical to both the plot and the setting of Seamus Heaney's version of this epic. The paper reviews and analyzes traditional characteristics including the quest for fame, manliness and courage as well as the non-traditional characteristics of generosity and concern for others.
From the Paper "In Seamus Heaney's translation of Beowulf, many themes and motifs exist, including predominantly the values of the Anglo-Saxon culture. The theme of manliness and strength known to the Anglo-Saxon tradition and important to the development and characteristics of Beowulf can be identified in all three agons of the epic. However, Beowulf also presents non-traditional aspects opposite of the typical Anglo-Saxon warrior, weaving an intricate text to enliven the story. These two contrasting forces combine to create a poem that highlights the inextinguishable spirit of mankind as well as underlines the values of morality."
Abstract The paper examines the aspects of Anglo-Saxon culture that are prevalent in the tragedy "Macbeth", including religious implications, the unique interpretation of the idea of faith and the social customs which ruled over the people of early Britain after the departure of the Romans from the area. The paper shows how these elements help frame the tragic story of a man who rejected the normal behavior allotted to his status and let his ambition ruin an entire nation.
From the Paper "The tragedy of Macbeth took place in Scotland at the end of the medieval period of Europe. It was based on real accounts of a Scottish Thane who murdered his Lord. William Shakespeare was known for his poetic language, which helped framed the dramatic and tragic story of Macbeth, (Nostbakken 14). By highlighting elements of the Anglo-Saxon culture which existed in that area and later influenced future generations, Shakespeare creates a world torn by war and ruled by fate."
Abstract Both of these poems from ancient Anglo - Saxon origin, with no known authors, are examined in this paper. The following elements are compared tone, imagery, and theme. Even though the circumstances the main character faces within each poem is unique, many parallels can be drawn.
From the Paper "The tone of each poem begins with Pagan elements and is ended by interjections of Christianity. In ?The Seafarer,? the first third of the poem does not mention God and instead focuses on the isolation of the main character. Also, a Pagan funeral pyre is included in the poem (line 114), and the Pagan values of pride and glorification after death are praised during the beginning of the poem. Several Christian elements offset this Pagan tone. A clear Christian interjection occurs when the poet writes "A man must conquer pride, not kill it" (line 109) because this statement was against Anglo-Saxon belief. In addition, the lines "Fate is stronger and God mightier than any man's mind" (lines 115-116) and "Praise the Holy Grace of Him who honored us" (lines 122-123) do not fit well with the rest of the poem which focuses more on the glory of man and his individual accomplishments. A similar pattern in tone is evident in ?The Wanderer.? From the lines "He claspeth his dear lord again, head on knee, hand on knee, loyally laying, pledging his liege in days long past" (lines 36-38) it is clear to the reader that the main character feels much more of an allegiance to his lord than to God. The Pagan concept of fate (line 54) reinforces the lack of Christianity in the poem. However, in the last few lines of the poem, "And happy the man who seeketh for mercy from his heavenly Father, our fortress and strength" (lines 107-108), a Christian concept is introduced which disrupts the Pagan tone of the poem. "The Seafarer" and "The Wanderer" have similar shifts in tone which attempt to Christianize otherwise Pagan poems."
Abstract This paper compares the attempts of King Theoderic of the Ostrogoths to establish his kingdom out of the Goths and Romans in Italy with the less cohesive settlement of the Anglo-Saxons in England. The author begins by describing the Ostrogoths and the history of their contact with the Roman empire, and shows that the Goths' adoption of Roman culture was the main reason for their success at settling in Italy. However, it ultimately led to the disappearance of their own identity and culture, as they assimilated and ceased to be barbarians. On the other hand, the Anglo-Saxons took the opposite approach, keeping themselves mainly apart from the native Briton culture, and subsequently maintained their settlement for centuries. The author points out that the term 'Anglo-Saxon' is still used today, almost as a synonym for 'Caucasian.' The paper concludes that their ultimate success may have been due to their retention of their own culture and the eventual adoption of Catholicism, something which the Ostrogoths refused to do.
From the Paper "It has been said of the Ostrogoths that they were more Roman than the Romans, but how was this instituted and where did Theoderic get the inspiration from? The Ostrogoths as a people had had both indirect and direct contact with the Roman Empire for centuries. However, in 461, as the eight year old son of one of the Ostrogothic warrior leaders, Theoderic had been taken against his will to live in Byzantium for ten years. Living in the heart of what remained of the Roman Empire, Theoderic would have been exposed to Roman ways of living, perhaps more so than the ways of his own people. He would use this vital knowledge later in life when establishing his rule over two very different races, and create a kingdom unlike any of the other barbarian settlements."
Abstract This paper discusses the Alfred Jewel, its design, purpose and significance. It explains that this jewel was the first Anglo-Saxon artifact ever to be found on British territory and that it is one of the most renowned objects to remain intact from Anglo-Saxon England, and is typically linked with Alfred the Great, king of the West Saxons from 871-99. The paper looks at the various interpretations of the design in the enamel of the jewel. The paper also explores the different theories on the supposed purpose of the Jewel. The paper also explains how the Alfred Jewel landed up in the Ashmolean Museum in England.
From the Paper "Since the jewel was discovered, there has been much speculation as to what purpose it was meant to serve. One theory is that the jewel was a symbol of office, either of Alfred or of one of his officials (Roberts). Alfred wholeheartedly devoted himself to providing his people with a valuable understanding of many subjects. Many scholars believe that the image carved into the enamel of the Alfred Jewel is mean to portray Christ as the embodied form of Wisdom of god (Hinton 51). It is common for objects from the Anglo-Saxon period to be adorned with explicitly Christian objects. Alfred had aspirations to use his own virtue and wisdom to acquire authority. Given that Alfred perceived power in such a manner, he might have considered the Alfred Jewel to be representative of worldly office."
