Anglo-French/ Medieval English Literature (Handout)

Anglo-French and Medieval English Literature refers to the literary works produced during the period of
the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century until the end of the Middle Ages in the 15th century.
This era saw the blending of Anglo-Saxon and French cultures, resulting in a rich and diverse literary
tradition.

The Norman Conquest of England in 1066 brought about significant changes in the cultural and linguistic
landscape of the country. The Normans, led by William the Conqueror, were of French origin and
introduced the French language and customs to England. As a result, the court and the ruling elite started
speaking and writing in a hybrid language known as Anglo-Norman.

Anglo-Norman literature, written in a combination of Old French and Latin, flourished during this period.
It encompassed various genres such as chivalric romances, epic poetry, religious texts, and legal treatises.
One of the notable works of this time is the "Chanson de Roland," an epic poem that recounts the heroic
deeds of Roland, a knight of Charlemagne.

However, it is important to note that alongside Anglo-Norman literature, there was also a continuation of
Old English literature. Some of the famous works of Old English literature, such as "Beowulf" and "The
Dream of the Rood," were still studied and appreciated during this period.

As time passed, the influence of Anglo-Norman gradually declined, and Middle English emerged as the
dominant language of literature. Middle English literature encompasses a wide range of genres and
themes, reflecting the changing social and cultural landscape of England.

One of the most significant events in Medieval English literature was the emergence of Geoffrey Chaucer
as a prominent poet. Chaucer's masterpiece, "The Canterbury Tales," is a collection of stories told by a
diverse group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury. This work showcases Chaucer's skill in storytelling and
his keen observation of medieval society.

Another important literary figure of this period is Sir Thomas Malory, who wrote "Le Morte d'Arthur."
This work, based on the legends of King Arthur, became one of the most influential pieces of Arthurian
literature in English.

Religious literature also played a significant role during the Medieval period. The mystery plays,
performed by guilds, depicted biblical stories and moral lessons. These plays were a form of
entertainment as well as a means of conveying religious teachings to the masses.

Overall, Anglo-French and Medieval English literature offer a fascinating glimpse into the cultural,
linguistic, and literary developments of England during the Middle Ages. The blending of Anglo-Saxon
and French traditions resulted in a rich literary heritage that continues to inspire and captivate readers
today.