Anglo-Saxon England

Definition

Anglo-Saxon England refers to the period of English history from the 5th century until the Norman Conquest in 1066, characterized by the establishment of several kingdoms in England and a distinctive culture influenced by Germanic traditions. This era is significant for its contributions to English language, literature, law, and governance, as well as its rich archaeological finds that illuminate daily life during this transformative time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Anglo-Saxon period began with the arrival of Germanic tribes such as the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes in the 5th century, who displaced the Roman population.
2. Anglo-Saxon England was marked by the establishment of local governance through assemblies known as 'moots' where community leaders would meet to discuss laws and decisions.
3. The period saw a flourishing of art and literature, with notable works including 'Beowulf', which reflects the values and culture of the time.
4. Christianity spread throughout Anglo-Saxon England during this time, significantly influencing art, culture, and education, leading to the establishment of monastic centers.
5. Archaeological discoveries, particularly at sites like Sutton Hoo, provide critical insights into the wealth, trade networks, and burial practices of Anglo-Saxon society.

Review Questions

• How did the arrival of Germanic tribes shape the cultural landscape of Anglo-Saxon England?
  • The arrival of Germanic tribes like the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes significantly transformed the cultural landscape of Anglo-Saxon England. They brought with them their own customs, language, and social structures that influenced local governance and community life. Over time, these tribes merged their traditions with those of the existing Roman population, creating a unique cultural identity that laid the foundation for what would become medieval England.
• Discuss the significance of archaeological finds like Sutton Hoo in understanding Anglo-Saxon society.
  • Archaeological finds such as Sutton Hoo are crucial for understanding Anglo-Saxon society as they reveal aspects of daily life, beliefs, and social hierarchies. The burial mounds at Sutton Hoo contained richly adorned artifacts indicating a complex society with stratified classes. These discoveries also suggest that Anglo-Saxons had extensive trade networks and interactions with other cultures. The site provides invaluable evidence for historians to piece together social customs and rituals during this formative period in English history.
• Evaluate the impact of Christianity on Anglo-Saxon England's governance and culture.
  • Christianity had a profound impact on both governance and culture in Anglo-Saxon England. The conversion to Christianity led to the establishment of monastic communities that became centers for learning and literacy. This shift not only influenced legal codes but also promoted a sense of unity among different kingdoms under a shared faith. As Christian ideals merged with local customs, it paved the way for a more organized societal structure while fostering artistic expressions in literature and art that reflected religious themes.

Related terms

Heptarchy:

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

Old English: The early form of the English language spoken and written in Anglo-Saxon England, which is the ancestor of modern English.

Bede:

An influential Anglo-Saxon monk and historian who wrote 'Ecclesiastical History of the English People', providing a key source of information about early medieval England.