Angles

Definition

In the context of Anglo-Saxon England, 'angles' refers to the Anglo-Saxons, a group of tribes that migrated to England from what is now Denmark and Germany during the early medieval period. This term is pivotal in understanding the cultural, social, and political structures that defined early English history, as these tribes contributed significantly to the formation of English identity, language, and governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Angles were one of the three main tribes, along with the Saxons and Jutes, that migrated to Britain in the 5th and 6th centuries.
2. The term 'Angle-land' eventually evolved into 'England', reflecting the significant influence of the Angles on British culture and identity.
3. The Anglo-Saxons established a complex society with a rich tradition of art, literature, and law that laid the foundations for modern English culture.
4. Christianity was introduced to Anglo-Saxon England through missionaries like Augustine of Canterbury, leading to significant cultural changes in their pagan society.
5. The legal system in Anglo-Saxon England was highly developed, featuring practices like local courts and a focus on community responsibility for maintaining order.

Review Questions

• How did the migration of the Angles influence the development of early English society?
  • The migration of the Angles played a crucial role in shaping early English society by establishing new settlements that became integral to the formation of England. They brought with them cultural practices, social structures, and a unique form of governance that blended with existing Celtic traditions. This fusion laid the groundwork for what would become a distinct English identity over time.
• What were some key cultural contributions made by the Angles during their settlement in Britain?
  • The Angles contributed significantly to various aspects of culture in Britain, including language, art, and literature. They helped develop Old English as a distinct language through their dialects. Additionally, their craftsmanship led to unique artistic styles in metalwork and textiles, while oral traditions evolved into written works that are foundational to English literature today.
• Evaluate the impact of Christianity on Anglo-Saxon culture following the arrival of missionaries. How did this transformation affect social norms?
  • The arrival of Christianity through missionaries had a profound impact on Anglo-Saxon culture by introducing new religious beliefs and practices that challenged existing pagan customs. This shift promoted literacy as Latin texts became more accessible, influencing education and governance. Social norms also transformed as Christian values emphasized community responsibility and ethical behavior, leading to changes in laws and interpersonal relationships within Anglo-Saxon society.

Related terms

Anglo-Saxon Chronicle: A collection of annals in Old English chronicling the history of the Anglo-Saxons from the earliest times to the 12th century.

Heptarchy:

The term used to describe the seven kingdoms of England during the early Anglo-Saxon period: Northumbria, Mercia, East Anglia, Essex, Kent, Sussex, and Wessex.

Old English:

The early form of the English language spoken and written by the Anglo-Saxons, which evolved from Germanic dialects.