Old English literature or Anglo-Saxon literature,

encompasses literature written in Old English,

in Anglo-Saxon England from the 7th century to the
decades after the Norman Conquest of 1066.

Examples:
1. Beowulf
Beowulf is an Old English epic poem consisting
of 3,182 alliterative lines. It is one of the most
important works of Old English literature. The date of
composition is a matter of contention among scholars;
the only certain dating pertains to the manuscript,
which was produced between 975 and 1025. 
It is written in the alliterative verse style, which
is common for Old English poetry as well as
works written in languages such as Old High
German, Old Saxon, and Old Norse.

What is the story of BEOWULF?

The story is set in Scandinavia. Beowulf, a hero of

the Geats, comes to the aid of Hrothgar, the king
of the Danes, whose mead hall in Heorot has been
under attack by a monster known as Grendel.
After Beowulf slays him, Grendel's mother attacks the
hall and is then also defeated.

Author

The author was an anonymous Anglo-Saxon poet,

referred to by scholars as the "Beowulf poet".

Theme

One of the central themes of Beowulf, embodied by

its title character, is loyalty. At every step of his career,
loyalty is Beowulf's guiding virtue.

Moral Lesson

The moral of Beowulf is that it is better to die young

with heroism and virtue than to grow to a ripe old age
being cowardly and avoiding your responsibilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Beowulf had all of the great qualities of

an epic hero. Beowulf preformed many brave deeds,
risks his life for the greater good of society, and is very
significant and glorified by all people. Beowulf never
had a problem with putting himself in danger for
the good of others

Other poems in Anglo-Saxon period:

The Wanderer
The Seafarer

CAROLINGIAN RENAISSANCE
The Carolingian Renaissance was the first of
three medieval renaissances, a period of cultural
activity in the Carolingian Empire. It occurred
from the late 8th century to the 9th century,
which took inspiration from the Christian Roman
Empire of the fourth century. During this period,
there was an increase of literature, writing,
the arts, architecture, jurisprudence, liturgical reforms,
and scriptural studies.
(Carolingian minuscule, one of the products of
Carolingian Renaissance)

VIKING SAGAS

Sagas are stories mostly about ancient Nordic and

Germanic history, early Viking voyages, the battles
that took place during the voyages, and migration
to Iceland and of feuds between Icelandic families.
They were written in the Old Norse language,
mainly in Iceland. 

(Excerpt from Njáls saga in the Möðruvallabók)

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