The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle

Definition

The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle is a collection of annals in Old English that records the history of the Anglo-Saxons from their arrival in Britain up to the 12th century. It serves as a vital primary source for understanding early medieval England and reflects the culture, politics, and societal norms of that era, making it essential for studying Old English language and literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle was commissioned by King Alfred the Great in the late 9th century to promote literacy and record historical events.
2. There are several versions of the Chronicle, with some entries varying between them, highlighting regional differences in historical interpretation.
3. The Chronicle is written in Old English and utilizes alliterative verse, which is a characteristic feature of much Anglo-Saxon poetry.
4. It includes not only historical facts but also folklore, legends, and cultural observations, providing insight into the life and times of the Anglo-Saxons.
5. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle was continuously updated until the 12th century, making it one of the longest-running historical records of its kind.

Review Questions

• How does The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle reflect the culture and values of early medieval England?
  • The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle reflects early medieval England's culture by recording significant events, societal norms, and cultural beliefs of the time. It showcases the importance of lineage, warfare, and religion in Anglo-Saxon society while also revealing how these factors influenced political decisions. Additionally, its use of Old English demonstrates a commitment to preserving the vernacular language at a time when Latin was dominant in written records.
• Discuss how The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle differs from other historical texts of its time in terms of its purpose and style.
  • The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle differs from other historical texts of its time due to its focus on local events and figures rather than just significant national occurrences. Its purpose was not only to document history but also to provide a sense of identity and continuity for the Anglo-Saxon people. Stylistically, it incorporates elements of oral tradition, such as alliteration and rhythm, which makes it accessible to a broader audience compared to more formal Latin chronicles.
• Evaluate the impact of The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle on our understanding of Old English literature and language.
  • The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle significantly impacts our understanding of Old English literature and language by providing a rich source for linguistic study and showcasing the narrative style prevalent during that era. Through its preservation of dialects and vocabulary, scholars gain insights into language evolution. Additionally, its blend of prose with poetic elements highlights the interplay between oral tradition and written records in shaping Old English literary forms, influencing future generations of writers.

Related terms

Old English:

A Germanic language spoken and written in parts of what are now England and southern Scotland between the mid-5th century and the mid-12th century.

Chronicle: A historical account of events in chronological order, often used as a source for historical research.

Beowulf:

An epic poem considered one of the most important works of Old English literature, telling the story of a hero's battles against monsters and dragons.