Characteristics of

Anglo-Saxon Poetry
(applies to riddles,
Beowulf, The Seafarer,
etc.)
 Facts
Originally oral, not written
Employs alliteration (repetition
of initial consonant sounds)
Employs kennings
(descriptive, metaphorical
phrases of 2-4 words)
 Kennings
Beowulf
Grendel
Grendels mother
Hrothgar
Higlac
Wealtheow
Ocean
Sun
dragon
Repetition (of words, entire
phrases, stories)
Understatement (saying less
than is meant)
Gory details
References to God/wyrd/fate
 Beliefs and Traditions
WYRD or fate controls life
Honor requires
revenge/compensation for
injury or death (WERGILD)
Love of war and violence
Love of treasure, wealth and
prosperity (results of bravery)
Loyalty to family/tribe
Love of stories, especially hero
stories
Belief that nothing good ever lasts
Love of rituals: feasting, burial,
etc.
Unwritten contract between king
and warrior: generosity for loyalty
(COMITATUS)
 Qualities of Anglo-
Saxon Warrior Hero
(and a life of honor)
Excellence, competence, skill
In battle
In sailing
In riding
Great strength (even
superhuman strength)
Loyalty (especially to the king)
Devotion to duty, eagerness
to fight
Generosity
Love of fame, glory, boasts
 Characteristics of Epic
Literature
(such as Beowulf)
Reveals the traditions,
customs of the people
Grand/large in its scope:
geography, time
Lofty/formal language
Employs the supernatural
Battle between good and evil
Illustrates man in a hostile
environment, the sacrifice of
the hero
Generally concerns the noble
deeds of a warrior-hero and
his companions