English Literature, Old English.

  

English Literature

Levis Leonardo Lozano Hoyos.

It has been said that the first English Literature goes back to the period between AD 410-1066. It was a time of war and invasion that the nation we know today as Great Britain had to face. Anyway, like all European Countries, all the struggles they suffered a long its history helped them to become the nation they are today.

The invasions made by Anglos, Saxons, Jutes, Vikings, Normans, French, Scandinavian, Romans, and others not just left many traces in English architecture, culture, and language. People also changed a lot because of the mixture. All invaders influenced the whole nation, but Latin was the language of the church.

Remember the power exercised by the Roman Empire throughout Europe.  Only until King Henry VIII broke relations with Rome established the Anglican church, headed by the king and not the pope. In such a way, Roma, the catholic church left to influence the English power in a certain way in 1534.

The topics of the first English Literature were Religious, it talked about heroes, battles, love, personal sadness, and happiness, as well, which allows me to say that the topics of Literature have always been the same due to literature's relation to humans’ feelings and the aspects that affect them. 

The language known as old English is the language of the first literature in English. The first stories and poems were spoken, there is no evidence of where they were told first.

The first English writers were the Christian monks, they were the only people who could read and write at that time. Therefore, for many centuries they were the guardians of the culture and learning in their monasteries.  However, today there are few fragments of their job. (Ronald Carter and Jhon McRae). 

The first text in English Literature is “Caedmon’s Hymn, a poem that was supposed to be inspired by God. It is a prayer of a cow herder whose name was Caedmon. “Caedmon's Hymn”

Nū scylun hergan     hefaenrīcaes Uard,
metudæs maecti     end his mōdgidanc,
uerc Uuldurfadur,     suē hē uundra gihwaes,
ēci dryctin     ōr āstelidæ
hē ǣrist scōp     aelda barnum
heben til hrōfe,     hāleg scepen.
Thā middungeard     moncynnæs Uard,
eci Dryctin,     æfter tīadæ
fīrum foldu,     Frēa allmectig.
[5]

Now [we] must honour the guardian of heaven,
the might of the architect, and his purpose,
the work of the father of glory
[a]
as he, the eternal lord, established the origin of every wonder;
he first created for the children of men
[b]
heaven as a roof, the holy creator.
Then the guardian of mankind,
the eternal lord, afterwards appointed the 
middle-enclosure,
the lands for men,
[c] the Lord almighty.

Taken from:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C%C3%A6dmon%27s_Hymn

See videos:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=049PnnCEYNs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lg4mg7q4bSQ


Another important poem is, Deor.  This poem expresses the suffering of a man who has lost a lot. It is believed that the poem could be written in the eighth century. Deor’s lament is one of the first texts whose topic is personal suffering.  

Deor

Writhing riposte in webs of winding arrange,
Wayland dragged in the dreary,
driven to win, wassailing his sorrows,
the longings that lingered him,
chilled cares his mates, once Nithhad
laid him up in the narrow, limb-lanced
the turnings of the true craftsman.

He got through much of that, maybe we will too.

Her brother’s death never perplexed her,
Beadohilde, so much as her own heartbreaks.
She knew it couldn’t deny it —
that she was pregnant,
yet could never design its outcome.

She got through much of that, maybe we will too.

Many things to learn & know
about Mæthhild’s reaping the results,
can you sound the deeps of this Geat’s love,
what steals the sleep from them all?

They got through much of that, maybe we will too.

Some Theodric or other kept clutch
on the princely keep on the borderlands
for thirty whole winters.
We know that at least —

Someone got through much of that, maybe we will too.

Better ask somebody about Eormanric,
his lycanthrope thinkings —
locking down his limitless realm,
out there in Gothic lands.
That was one grim lord, I tell you what.
There were many sitting sinew-bound,
sorrow-wound, weening their woes,
wisting atimes that the whole mess
should come crashing down.

Those guys got through much of that, maybe we will too.

One sits sorrow-cheered,
unmoored in space & time,
shadowing in selves, studying within —
our share of turbulence seems unending.
They can think it through in world,
the lord of craft can often change it.
To many a mind, the goodness is shown,
the crop of sagacity —
and to others some share of the dregs.

What would I say about myself?

Somewhat a time I shaped the singings
for the Heodenings, loved by my lord.
I used to be deor myself, now a beast.
I claimed the role & did it well
for many winters, holding to the bread-giver.
Until now — this Heorrenda, limbs lapped in verse,
crafty at both, took up my land-claims,
all that my sheltering lord granted me before.

They all got through much of that, maybe I will too.

 

 

 

Taken from: https://oldenglishpoetry.camden.rutgers.edu/deor/

See video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3ZvjTHpb1A

 

The Wanderer is a poem about a man who lost everything. He is expecting to have a better life. However, he is suffering as he can’t leave his past behind.  It was translated from the old English and annotated by Karl E. H. Seigfried. See it on: https://www.norsemyth.org/2016/02/the-wanderer-old-english-poem.html, as well as on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqMW2Ap0E54.

The Seafarer is a lament which describes the sorrow of an exile. It has been identified as an insular sailor’s lamentation. Read the whole poem on: https://www.hermitarypress.com/literature/seafarer.html and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QT0qSUURODY.

An important anonymous religious poem is The Dream of the Rood. It tried to attract to Anglo-Saxons from their pagan culture to Christianity. Eighteen lines of it were carved on the Rothwell Cross, a stone dating from the early 8th century. The complete poem was found in the "Vercelli Book" in 1822.  This poem is important due to its style.  Read it on  https://oldenglishpoetry.camden.rutgers.edu/dream-of-the-rood/ and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gySK1ie_Hx8.

To learn about the Rothwell Cross see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruthwell_Cross

 


  

References


Ronald Carter and Jhon McRae, (1996).  The penguin guide to English Literature. London: Penguin Books.

 

Wikipedia. (n.d).  “Caedmon's Hymn.  Retrieved January 6th, 2021 from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C%C3%A6dmon%27s_Hymn.

The University of Exeter, (n.d). The Exeter Book. Retrieved January 6th, 2021 from https://theexeterbook.exeter.ac.uk/




[1] Photo taken from https://pixabay.com/es/images/search/english%20flag/

Comentarios

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  4. Parting for the previous enlightening writing, I would like to share a personal reflection of it.

    Back in time to the begining of English as a language, the different pieces that played for rooths to the currenct language we know weren't even aware of what it would become in the future,; influenced by multiple cultures, believesband languages the resulting proof to that story remains guarded in literaturel. Different compositionsccreated throughout time are saving the life and sensibility of multiple, known and unknown by name, authors. Those poems and hymnshare the remainings of a long-lost society's that lived in pain and hardships for the sake ofohonoroand christian devotion, a way of living that evolved witg the passing centuries only keeping that intrinsic senceseof humanity.

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  5. Taking into account the content covered in classes, it is very interesting to learn about how the Old English language was born and everything that had to happen to be formed and, even after being formed, it continued to undergo modifications with each invasion.
    Britain was the place where Old English began to be spoken and written. This country was invaded by some tribes from Europe like the Angles, the Saxons, the Jutes, Vikings, and Normans. Thanks to the invading tribes that speak similar languages, what we now call the Old English language was born, which served as a bridge to transmit through writings, poems and songs of the time.

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  6. It is of great importance to know about Old English because it is one of the Germanic languages derived from a prehistoric Common Germanic originally spoken in southern Scandinavia and the northernmost parts of Germany. Also, it should be noted that Old English is also known as Anglo-Saxon, which is derived from the names of two Germanic tribes that invaded England during the fifth century. And finally, it is nice to know that the most famous work of Old English literature is the epic poem "Beowulf". This poem describes events that are part of the memory of the time: invasions and battles, some historical, some legendary.

    Thank you very much for sharing with us a brief overview of English literature in this short summary.

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  8. After having learned in class several important aspects of English literature, for me the most interesting were the experiences that tell their novels, stories, poems and also how the language has evolved to the present, it should be noted the importance of the authors at the time of contributing to this, such as William Shakespeare who was one of the most recognized authors in his time with the "Romeo and Juliet", I also want to highlight Samuel Beckett, Charles Dickens, among others, finally this was enriching, I hope to continue learning more about English literature and their respective authors.

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  9. Reading the comments of the classmates and what we heard in class, I think that the English language has now become one of the most important languages in the world. It’s considered the universal language, therefore many non-native people of this language have decided to learn it, learn its writing, pronunciation and even its origin. the writings that have survived to the present day represent above all the frequent literary register. The influences were also strong
    there were many influences on the English language and culture. This English literature has undergone a great process over the years, evolving and changing the ways of communicating.

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  10. I think the Old English literature was so interesting because the idea of mix literature with feelings of human being that they are so complicated, changing and a little hard to understand; because if you want to write about something you need to understand what you write so to write or create a relationship between literature and human being, the writers had to understand the feelings, the mind, the behavior of the human being and then writing about it, they had to get involved with the pain of the human being in order to capture it correctly in their poetry.

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  11. To summarize, it was a very important and productive reading because I read about many things that I did not know, such as the origin of American literature and Old English, the influence that other languages ​​such as French had in the construction of English as we know it today. day, also the few books and written records that exist of Old English because in those times only the monks knew how to read and write and they were the ones who left some writings such as poems of Old English I was able to know that the Exeter book I do not know if that is the Correct Pronunciation is one of the few extant Old English books that contains a wide variety of Old English poems and is listed as one of the most important books in American literature.

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  12. English literature as many things in the world has been influenced throughout the years by humans believes, specially when it comes to religion and christianity. This is to say that as Vikings invaded England and new lands; saxons used literature to praise their love and protection to God. The first stories included chants and songs about battles and warriors that were preserved between generations using storytelling. Thus, with the development of alphabets, oral stories and fables were transcribed into written short stories centuries later, many ancient oral stories and epic soap operas have been written down.

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  13. The history of Old English is an important fact that we need to know, and it was interesting to know its beginning, the setting where it was born, the topics of its first poems, the influence on culture, language and the other changes it brought with it.
    Personally, I can define old English literature as a mixture of feelings. Through poems, writers can express different emotions such as personal sadness, happiness, love. Mary Aguirre

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  14. I think that ancient English literature was very interesting and important for humanity to see how the mixture of cultures and traditions of many countries of the world influenced to have new advances and changes over time, also how English literature was an inspiration for many authors. , writers and poets who decided to capture their feelings and ideas from this language with experiences that tell their novels, stories, poems and this is something beautiful to know because today it is the most important language and being able to know how it came about has been very enriching
    Daniel López

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  15. English literature has been around for years and has been around forever. When it was born, it was a time full of wars and invasions that brought with them a series of changes in language, culture, thought and the social and political sphere and the fusion of this with others enriched the language and forms of transmitting messages of the time that included heroism and religion.
    On the other hand, old English was an inflected language with a lot of freedom in its syntax, unlike modern English. The writings that have survived to this day represent above all the anglo- Saxon literary record. Scandinavian influences were also strong and Latin was still the language of the church, as there were many influences on the English language and culture.
    Finally, this English literature has embarked on a great journey over the years, involving and changing the ways of communicating its vocabulary, syntax, and morphology. In addition, the work and the documents helped to better understand the beginning of this and all it has brought with it.

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  16. After reading about English literature, I learned many things, one of the things I learned was that there was an Old English, I really had no idea about it. On the other hand, English literature is very important because it allows us to know the structure of the language, its evolution, it also allows us to expand our vocabulary and get closer to the English society. To conclude, I can say that reading about literature was an enriching experience, because it gives us a new way of thinking about the world.

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  17. After having learned in class about English literature, I can highlight that it was a time of invasion where the invaders had a great influence on the enrichment of the language. What I find most curious is that at that time the most spoken themes were religious, heroes, battle, love and sadness which means that for people at that time feelings were important and also that at that time the first writers were Christian monks. and the oldest known text is the hymn of Caedmon. At that time oral tradition was very important and most of the literary works were written in order to be performed. Epic poems became very popular and some, such as Beowulf, have survived to the present day.

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  18. From my perspective, this information is essential if we want to have more contact with the language we are learning. Learning about the origin and the first texts that expressed many feelings from people of that time only makes us realize that we have always been linked with the necessity to express ourselves to the world and today that it can be translated is still being a great fortune.
    The fact that my partners through their words in class showed me that they have the same necessity as me to talk and know about how important is the origin and the evolution of the Universal Language is wonderful. It makes us feel ourselves more autonomous and ready to teach others, and also it is fundamental for our ethical and professional process as future teachers

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  19. Taking into consideration what I have learned from both classes regarding Old and middle English, it can be said that the old and middle English although they have their beginnings in ancient times, since The first literature in English goes back to the period between about AD 410 and 1066, it must be recognized that it had a lot of impact in its time; and in fact it can be reflected in our current times, perhaps due to the concordance of topics addressed that are still seen today, such as war, religion, sadness, happiness; etc., also by making use of currently well-known literary genres such as poems, songs, writings, elegies, orality, among others that captivate me and capture my attention greatly by being able to recognize such resources; On the other hand, it should also be noted that despite how the English literature was developing at that time, it should be mentioned that it had a good group of characters, authors, interpreters, kings, as some were named; among others, that made it possible to shape and leave an important legacy that served, and has served as a guide or road map in the English language as such, without forgetting the feeling incorporated by the authors in each of their works. some of the works were anonymous, but I would like the ones I could highlight from classes; Caedmon's Hymn, Anglo-Saxon poem " Deor", Beowulf and long poems, Cynewulf, The Dream of the Rood, The Battle of Maldon, new version of The Beowulf story, among others. Finally, what I deeply realised and admire is how from literature, in different ways, the languague that we know today was created; so, every single thing thath happened in the past influenced everything materialized related to language.

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  20. I think that Old English was a very important scenario for today's literature, thanks to it we know the essential studies of the humanities because it interpret the human experience for us. To the extent that we have knowledge about these issues, we will be able to communicate better with each other, and understand a little about the medieval age and its importance. The text tells us a little, that there were cultural changes at that time, which was therefore one of the reasons why Old English developed and became more relevant in literature.
    As a result, English has become a universal language and has the priority of being studied after the mother tongue. In the labor field English is fundamental, because it is a universal language of commerce, communication, etc. and it is the only language where people have the most knowledge about it, excluding their mother tongue.

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  21. English literature refers to the study of texts from around the world, written in the English language. By studying a degree in English literature, you will learn how to analyze a multitude of texts and write clearly using several different styles.
    English literature is an inexhaustible source of linguistic knowledge, not only because of the experiences narrated in its novels, stories and poems, but also because they allow us to understand the structure of the language, evolution, expansion of vocabulary and close to the history of English society.

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  22. English literature was born in the early Middle Ages. Then people start writing in the British Isles using an Anglo-Saxon dialect that later became known as "Old English". English literature is all that written in the English language, regardless of the origin of its authors.
    Literature teaches you to detect and use the subtleties of language, it opens our minds to exasperated and delicious ambiguities. Puns, double meanings and other little nuances give the language infinite possibilities.

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  24. I think the topics exposed in this document are of great importance. They facilitate a better understanding of English Literature, since it was born to the changes it brought in the social, cultural, political, linguistic...etc, this makes us better understand the history of humanity. In addition, it offers a look at the foundations of English literature that allows the reader to understand in depth how much literature can evolve due to the historical and social context of the place from which it arises. Likewise, it allows identifying the relevant issues of the time and, through it, recognizing the interests and characteristics of ancient societies.

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  25. English Literature is composed of a series of historical and social contexts that were necessary to illustrate how religion, war, heroism, morality and epic stories were expressed, allowing us the understanding of traditions and beliefs in those times. Some of the main characteristics of old english literature are:
    The invasions plays an important role
    The majority of Old English authors were anonymous, christian monks were the only population able to write and read.
    Poetry was traditionally spoken rather than written.
    From Cædmon's Hymn I was inspired to elaborate a poem, called “A sorrow wind”

    My existence was coming to its end
    ‘It’s your turn’ the angel of death said
    On that day my soul grew alarming
    Loved ones in a rainy yard gathering
    Tearing up crying towards my darkness grave
    Throwing warm flowers in a cold cave
    but grateful to the Lord for putting them in my path
    I will speak to him for my family’s behalf
    also for living a life that I will always remember
    despite my flaws and bad temper
    when I thought about God
    I awake in a kingdom full of heavens
    and a single glance of him was enough
    to make worthy and rough
    Dust we are and to dust we shall return
    this divine commandment fulfilled by his servant
    The lord is calling me and my sentence chooses
    unnoticed I left my mother behind with bruises
    I loss my other little sky
    where my heaven is in my mom’s arms






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  26. If you ask me about Old English literature I could say that it is quite an interesting subject, to know where some things come from that I had not paid attention to before, to know how the language has gone through several changes, to know who were the first writers and pioneers of literature is something that had not crossed my mind before, but now, it is curious the fact that I want to know much more beyond what we already know.
    From my point of view, I think that knowing some of the most important aspects and all this information is important because it is the language that we as future teachers will teach and knowing about its origins and history is a very important part of our job.

    Jessica Conde

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  28. It was very interesting and important to read about all this, in addition to reading another article about it, what struck me the most was about da development, hat Old English was not static, and its usage covered a period of approximately 700 years from the Anglo-Saxon migrations that created England in the fifth century to some time after the Norman invasion of 1066, when the language underwent a major and dramatic transition. During this early period it assimilated some aspects of the languages with which it came in contact, such as the Celtic languages and the two dialects of Old Norse from the invading Vikings, who were occupying and controlling large tracts of land in northern and eastern England, which came to be known as the Danelaw.

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  29. It is rather shocking seeing how far English Literature has advanced. It started centuries ago but you can see how it has influenced the texts of many recognized authors, setting traditions and expectations in writing that have only increased through the years. English Literature as it is explained, at the very least its beginnings, shows knowledge and facts of history, tells the stories of what happened back in the ages of men and wars, kingdoms and the fall or triumph of their kings accompanied by the chronological steps of what became literature, from being spoken to written. Through the reading, you can tell that literature is not only made-up stories, myths or imagination but is also the source of information and knowledge needed to solve or learn more about cultures and their languages, how they communicated and how it is used nowadays as a form of self-expression.

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  30. English Literature began with the very beginning of English people, it portrayed the history in different ways, all the struggles suffered through war and invasion, all the developments reached, the unknown stories of heroes and God, after all the influence church had over these social and cultural developments was huge. Written or spoken, we can have an idea of what that time was like. English Literature did not stop there but continues to keep on developing as the nation did and still does.

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  31. I think it is really important know about the history English literature because allows us to understand the philosophical movements and ideas that permeated a particular culture at a particular time, since by analyzing the stories presented through English literature, it is possible to understand how contemporary Western culture has become what it is currently. Likewise, English literature gives us a new way of thinking about the world since, in addition to being an art form; is capable of eliciting divergent emotions.

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  32. Considering the two classes given, I can see how important it is to know the history about the English language, to know what old English was like or how it worked, to know how it came about is very important for me as a language learner. It is surprising to see the changes that have been made as time passes, and as society progresses, language acquires a different perspective, a different dialect, but with the same functionality that is communicating. At the same time, it is very moving to read the literature of Old English, to feel the poems written by different authors and the transcendental message they want to execute, of course also to read history texts, which all they do is educate, so for me it is really relevant to study about the literature of English. Besides that, it is very fundamental to see that before in English literature, the main themes were religions, about God, and all that He can do for us as human beings.

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  33. By: Naidys Farina López Anaya

    taking into account the two classes seen in this course, for me personally it has been fascinating to learn in more detail the history of the language that we have studied throughout our lives, to recognize the abysmal changes it has undergone, that it is almost unrecognizable, when listening to how it sounded the Old English seemed to me to be listening to German, only with that you can tell the difference, it made me appreciate a lot the history and development of this language, additionally, speaking of English literature, it is of supreme importance for today's world, perhaps without all those poems and those texts from the past we would not have the current literature, which took inspiration from the great classics of the past that became literary works of great importance for all humanity, which also help us understand the historical events of the past, that it is not a direct narrative and there may be a bit of fiction in them but they transport us to the time and tell us what life and thought of the time. In short, I find it very interesting to learn about this.

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  34. By: Maria Angélica Saleme. Around the two classes that we have had, I find it quite interesting to know the changes that English literature has had over time, those poems or writings that address topics such as the deity of God, sadness, pain and the suffering as well as how the language has changed in terms of grammar, vocabulary and in every way. English literature has undergone many changes that have led it to advance to the times we know today.

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  35. The first English literature was written in the language known as Old English. However, it took a very long time for it to be written. The topics discussed were the first stories and poems, although there is no exact certainty when these stories were told for the first time. During the Anglo-Saxon epoch, there were two distinct cultures, the Christian culture, which Saint Augustine brought to England in 597, and the heroic culture, which was characterized by leaders and heroes who defended their homelands against invaders.
    Considering the Anglo-Saxon poem “Deor” can inspire me and write something related:

    My dilemma
    Of course I know, I am the one who does not fit in at all
    That is my place, alone and barren
    Where full of loneliness, I find myself
    I don not mind not fitting in, I am used to it
    Is it vain to be different?
    Is it vain to think differently?
    Is it vain to have a different mentality?
    Is it be vain not to fit in?
    Is it be vain?
    I live in privilege, I live from a unique perspective
    In my day to day I discover I do not expect approval from society
    Only mine, because I am the one who must put my expectations first
    I am not selfish, I just want to achieve happiness
    But I am sure, that is up to me
    It does not depend on what society expects of me
    It is me against the current
    It is me against the world
    It is me against the standards
    It is me
    At the same time, the biggest obstacle is me
    I am the one who does not trust myself
    I am the one who does not show feeling
    I am the one who does not like to lose

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  36. English literature from the earliest times represents the culture and identity of those who could express their ideas, thoughts and opinions through poems, songs, and texts. The earliest literature in English dates back to the period between AD410 and 1066. These were difficult times, and the themes that inspired writing were battles, wars, personal sadness, religion, etc. To this day these themes have been an inspiration for writers. In this case I wrote a poem based on a personal sadness:

    One dark night you decided to leave.
    Your pain was strong, and the process was slow, disoriented and with no way out you made the decision that would change the course of your life and with immediate effect, mine.

    And although I would try,
    I did not understand the exact reasons why
    and so I lived every day asking myself over and over again
    what I could have done and didn't know,
    what I did and shouldn't have done.
    When, how and why?

    Without a clear answer and with blurred vision
    now your pain became mine.
    Without you, with nostalgia and suffering I live my life
    but with the hope of embracing again to never ever let you go.


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  37. By. Adriana Palacios:
    Considering the topics worked on during the class I can affirm that it is important that we can recognize the history of literature and that we recognize how Old English arises and who were the first people to use it. During the classes and the development of this work I was allowed to recognize that it occurred in a difficult period in which normally wars and the church and mainly God took much prominence for everything that was happening, giving me to understand that the human being from the first times has sought to cling to something bigger, to something divine that allowed him to cope with the different difficulties of life, as was happening at that time with the signs of violence. Probably if he had not been able to develop this work, he would have been unaware of these important facts.
    In addition to that, I consider that it was very enriching for my concepts to be able to analyze different texts that led me to better understand the differences and complexity between Old and modern English, also for me really wonderful as I could see the evolution in literature, writing and language over the years.
    Finally, I conclude that these analyses really help you to deepen the learning and understanding of texts.

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  38. After having read and heard a little about English literature, I can say that it is important to know where it comes from and how the language evolves, in order to make sense of what we are learning. I am impressed by the impact that the great invasions that took place in the Middle Ages had on the evolution of language, culture and architecture. However, this was a time that was also notable for its poems, which are the history of Old English. Poems that told stories of pain, heroic, religious, wars and that mostly used to be expressed orally rather than written, such as 'Deor', 'Caedmon’s Hymn'. Finally, it is important to know the history of English literature to understand the literature of today.

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  39. After reading the document, we can summarize that from the beginning, writers of literature have tried to capture their experiences; it has been a way of venting, a refuge and a way of telling and remembering their experiences. Caedmon's poem, for example, is an invitation to honor God as creator and father of all that surrounds us and also as protector of humanity and, from the feelings that it transmitted to me, I was able to get some inspiration and write the following words:

    your voice
    is a lullaby
    in nightmares' nights
    what is there to calm me down
    in my doubt times

    when your love
    and my unbreakable faith
    are the same
    the light always emerge

    Closely
    i've experienced your mysterious ways
    now i understand
    you're always there

    I see you in the boy who smiles
    I feel you in the beach breeze
    I need you like air to breathe
    you're in the little things

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  40. First of all, it was important for me to do the first written work about the history of English literature because I had no previous knowledge about its background, the battles and the period of wars that were fought in the Anglo-Saxon period that gave birth to a new language known as "Old English" which was based on the mixture of other languages such as French and English, and that basically all that time period served for the emergence of great authors who felt compelled to capture in their works the different feelings and emotions that were usually living because of the war or the great stories of heroes and battles that today have allowed people like me, to be informed about all that journey of English literature and the great impact it continues to have today.

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  41. The subject matter of Old English literature allows for a more pronounced emphasis of its literary traits. Old English poetry is usually always a glorification of warrior attitudes and epic stories, battles, and the winners of wars. This literature had a significant impact on contemporary literature as well as the narrative and culture of today's and tomorrow's society.
    One of the poems of this period, that I enjoyed reading the most was "Deor", which is a lament about showing the suffering and exile of a minstrel who was replaced by another minstrel after years of service to his lord, being deprived of his lands and his lord’s favour, which transmit extreme melancholy, touching personal feelings of the readers.
    I like this one also because I have felt like Ermanaric (in the fifth stanza of the poem), the king of Ostrogoths, who suffered misfortune being separated from his people, because in some occasions when I lost important members of my family, is extremely hurting, heartsick and inconsolable.

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  42. After reading about English literature, I can say that the society in English literature allows us to opens up to a world full of inspiration, creativity. And it leads us to discover feelings, emotions and other things through poems, novels, stories.
    And also to know how important it is in many areas of life.

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  43. English literature and the evolution of the English language is a topic that we as learners of the language must know. Reading about English literature help us to know and understand about the history of England, all the changes that happened in those times, the context in which people lived and all the feelings that they represented through literature. Feelings that are still popular in current literature. Something that I found surprising is how different was the Old English, language that evolved as a mix of many cultures to become the language in which we communicate now.

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  44. During the lessons and after reading the document, I realise the influence and importance of the different events that led to the English we know today. It is interesting to know how the language was spoken, passing on stories of heroes, warriors, invasions and as time went by it was written down on paper and remembered. English language is a mix and its literature plays an important role in culture.

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  45. old English, its rise, its impact and its enrichment in terms of language was a complete dialect, that when you come into contact with it you intuitively feel immersed in a language that comes from sensations, feelings expressed in the form of poems, some short some long, although for any learner of the English language it seems difficult and a bit boring, this same one teaches you how much people adored other people or also a God, otherwise they also express contempt or bad taste. These writers were normally monks, so it was very common to read writings referring to the Almighty.

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  46. In my view, English literature has been a very important point throughout literary times. It has allowed us to know more about the history of the United Kingdom and how literature influenced this historical point. I think that what can be highlighted the most are the different authors that it contains and the great writers that they have promoted, writers like Shakespeare, Dickens, George Orwell, among others. They have shown through poems, canticles, songs, etc.

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  47. The English language, like any other language, has had an important background and development to become what it is today. Its development in aspects such as poetry and songs, a cascade of changes, a highway to express feelings and emotions that beset man. Knowing these aspects as a student of the language gives us an in-depth understanding of the language, how to see it and how to teach it.

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  48. Taking into account the topics that have been seen in class, I could really know the history of literature and those important characters in that time, it has also been interesting to know how the English language was in ancient times. The history tells us many things about that time of literature, they were very difficult times, that even the people were looking for a divine approach in the church. The texts are a bit complex, but interesting to enrich our knowledge and analytical skills in my training process as a future teacher.

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  49. It was really exciting to know that there was an old English before the common one that we all know, how it impacted in the development of the language and Literature; Even though it is old English, for me it doesn't sound like English, however it can be related yo the modern English.

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  50. It is fantastic to learn how language has evolved over time and to see that even wars and invasions played a role in the evolution of what is now English as a universal language. It is important to know each of the important characters that played a role in the development of English literature. This revision of the old English has been very useful for me, I have learned a lot about the main characters, the first literary productions in the language, the first books, and how they have built what the language is today.

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  51. It is interesting the evolution of English throughout the centuries. From my perspective, it is disappointing thinking about the very beginning of the language when it was quite influenced by religion. Although it is cool that society at the time took such a role to have content to talk about. Moreover, all these things about occupation and conquests are determinants to building humans' life conditions and mindset.

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  52. Based on the text I would say that the origins of English Literature and its early development are important nowadays for several reasons: First, cultural heritage: Understanding the roots of English Literature helps to preserve and appreciate the cultural heritage of English-speaking countries. Second, literary analysis: Studying the early works of English Literature provides a foundation for literary analysis and critical thinking. Third, identity and diversity: The early literature of any language reflects the identity and diversity of its people. Fourth, contemporary literature: The themes and topics that were prevalent in early English Literature, such as love, heroism, battles, and personal emotions, continue to be relevant in contemporary literature. Finally, the historical context of early English Literature, including the influence of the Roman Empire, the role of the church, and the impact of invasions and cultural interactions, has shaped the development of English language, literature, and culture.

    In summary, understanding the origins and early development of English Literature is important nowadays for preserving cultural heritage, facilitating literary analysis, exploring identity and diversity, understanding contemporary literature, and providing historical context. It allows for a deeper appreciation and understanding of literature and its relevance in contemporary society.

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  53. Despite the changes that English has undergone over the years, it is important to remember where it all came from. Even if the first words in Old English are still more difficult to pronounce.
    Old English had a relatively small vocabulary compared to modern English, but it made up for this by using complex compounds and inflections to express shades of meaning. Many of the words in Old English are no longer used in modern English, and some have been replaced by their Old Norse counterparts.

    The most famous work in Old English literature is Beowulf, an epic poem that tells the story of a hero who battles monsters and dragons. Other important works include The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, a history of England, and The Dream of the Rood, a religious poem.

    To know about this has incredibly helped to understand more where English come from.

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  54. Learn and now know about old English and the begginig of the literature we can reflect how important is study this topic to have the knowledge of recognize those first writes, poems, to know the history of English. This can help us to understand how English people begin and have been develop. And as future English teacher is necessary know about the history of the language that we are going to teach. Those first text show the history, the specific moment and topics in English history, likes wars, religion, invasion and the kind of writings that English men started.
    Also I want to add that is really interesting compare the style of writing and the vocabulary used for those first writers and the currently writers. The style and way to write changed and study this help us to learn the evolution of that.

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  55. Understanding English literature is important for several reasons. Firstly, it provides insights into the cultural, historical, and societal contexts of the English-speaking world. Literature reflects the thoughts, values, and beliefs of different time periods, offering a window into the past and how people lived, thought, and expressed themselves. English literature also fosters critical thinking and empathy. It presents diverse characters and situations, encouraging readers to analyze complex moral and ethical dilemmas. By empathizing with literary characters, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of human nature, different perspectives, and the complexities of the human experience.

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  56. It is fascinating to know the origins of English literature, tracing its roots to a difficult period in British history marked by invasions and cultural influences from various groups. It is interesting how these historical events not only shaped the architecture, culture and language of Great Britain, but also had a profound impact on its people and their literary expressions. Also, works like Caedmon's Hymn, Deor, The Wanderer, The Seafarer, and The Dream of the Rood, show the diverse range of topics covered, from religious themes to personal suffering and the longing for a better life.

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  57. It is interesting to know a little about the history of other places. In this case, it is striking that Old English literature stands out for the history it contains in the form of battles, love, happiness, religion, etc. which was what was experienced at the time, being part of ancient nations, their culture, and what they became today; mainly due to the great influence of religion in the different writings of these times thanks to the exclusivity of writing that the monks had. Likewise, it is interesting how the arrival of different cultures created their own and that not only altered architecture and customs but also speech.

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  58. It's intriguing to observe how historical cultural fusion and outside influences have affected English literature and culture. The fact that literature has explored themes like heroes, battles, love, and a range of emotions is more evidence of the timeless subjects that literature has investigated.

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  59. The wording above provides a well-rounded and informative perspective on the early history of English literature and the factors that shaped it.
    It is important to know about Old English because it gives us a better understanding of the development of English literature. By understanding the historical context in which different works were written, we can better appreciate their meaning and significance.
    For instance, knowing that the first English literature was written in Old English helps us to understand why the language of these works is so different from modern English. It also helps us to understand the influence of the Christian church on early English literature.
    Similarly, knowing about the different invasions and assimilations that occurred in England helps us to understand the cultural diversity of English literature. It also helps us to understand the different influences that have shaped the English language.

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  60. The importance of the origins of Old English in today's context can be summarized in two key aspects. Firstly, Old English serves as a crucial linguistic and cultural heritage, allowing us to trace the linguistic roots of the English language and comprehend how it has evolved over centuries. It provides insights into the cultural and historical foundations of English-speaking societies, offering a window into the values, beliefs, and traditions of early English communities. Additionally, Old English literature, including iconic works like "Beowulf" and religious texts, helps us appreciate the development of English literature.

    Furthermore, Old English plays a pivotal role in comparative linguistics, facilitating the analysis of language evolution and connections between different languages. As a subject of academic study, Old English is essential for scholars, aiding them in deciphering ancient texts and deepening their understanding of language history, literature, and culture. Despite no longer being a spoken language, Old English's significance lies in its foundational role in shaping modern English and enriching our understanding of that linguistic and cultural heritage.

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    Respuestas
    1. he period known as Old and Middle English (c. 450-1500) was a time of great change and upheaval in England. The Anglo-Saxon invasion, the Norman Conquest, and the Black Death all had a profound impact on English society, and these changes are reflected in the literature of the period.

      In terms of social justice, the texts of Old and Middle English offer a mixed bag. On the one hand, there are many examples of prejudice and discrimination. For example, in the poem "Deor," the speaker is exiled from his home because of his lord's jealousy. In "Beowulf," the hero is called upon to slay a monster that is terrorizing the kingdom, but he is only able to do so with the help of a slave.

      On the other hand, there are also some examples of social justice in the texts of Old and Middle English. For example, in the poem "The Wanderer," the speaker expresses sympathy for the poor and the oppressed. In "The Wife of Bath's Tale," the speaker argues that women should be treated equally to men.

      Overall, the texts of Old and Middle English offer a complex and nuanced view of social justice. There are both examples of prejudice and discrimination, as well as examples of compassion and equality. This reflects the fact that the period was a time of great change and upheaval, and that people were still grappling with the meaning of social justice.

      Here are some specific examples of how social justice issues are addressed in the poems "Deor" and "Beowulf":

      In "Deor," the speaker is exiled from his home because of his lord's jealousy. This is an example of how social justice can be undermined by prejudice and discrimination.
      In "Beowulf," the hero is called upon to slay a monster that is terrorizing the kingdom, but he is only able to do so with the help of a slave. This is an example of how social justice can be achieved through the cooperation of people from different social backgrounds.

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  61. Between AD 410 and AD 1066, a time marked by battle and invasions that influenced what is now known as Great Britain, your investigation digs into the foundations of English literature. It illustrates in vivid detail how several invaders—from the Anglo-Saxons and Saxons to the Vikings and Normans—left enduring imprints on English culture, language, and architecture, adding to the country's diverse range of influences. Latin's continued use, especially inside the church up to King Henry VIII's historic break with Rome in 1534, highlights the complex web of historical processes.
    Moreover, your exploration highlights the diverse themes that permeated early English literature, from religious narratives and tales of heroism to personal emotions and love stories. This observation reaffirms the enduring relevance of these themes throughout literary history, as they continue to resonate with human experiences. Your discussion also sheds light on the linguistic aspect, noting that Old English served as the language of the earliest English literature, and Christian monks played a pivotal role as the first English writers, safeguarding culture and knowledge within their monasteries. The inclusion of "Caedmon's Hymn" and "Deor" as seminal texts from this era adds depth to your analysis, painting a comprehensive picture of this critical period in the development of English literature.

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  63. It's fascinating to see how literature has evolved over time, and how it has always been a reflection of human emotions and experiences. The influence of historical events on literature is also intriguing, as it shows how literature can be shaped by the world around it. Overall, the text provides an informative overview of the origins of English literature and its development over time.

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  64. During the Old and Middle English period, literature reflects a society deeply rooted in norms and values that, although different from current ones, addressed social justice issues both implicitly and explicitly. In texts like "Beowulf," themes related to discrimination and equity in various aspects of life can be discerned. The narrative, set in a tribal and heroic context, reflects social dynamics addressing issues of racism, primarily in the perception of "other" peoples and cultures, as well as in the valuation of ethnic purity. Additionally, gender considerations are glimpsed, with women occupying secondary roles and being subordinate to men, although they are occasionally granted certain influence and power. Age also plays a crucial role, as youth and vitality are exalted, while old age may be seen as a symbol of wisdom but also of fragility and decline. Although themes of sexual orientation, religion, nationality, education, and mental or physical abilities are not explicitly addressed in these texts, the mindset of the time may have influenced the perception of these issues. Together, these elements reveal a reflection of social justice in the context of the time, with its prejudices and inequalities, but also with glimpses of inclusion and empathy

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  65. During the periods of Old and Middle English, social justice issues were often reflected in the literature of the time. Texts from this era shed light on various aspects of society, including perceptions of justice based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, education, and mental or physical ability. In these texts, we see examples of discrimination, inequality, and marginalization based on these factors. For instance, in some texts, racism is evident through the portrayal of minority groups as inferior or deserving of mistreatment. Gender roles and expectations are often rigidly enforced, limiting the opportunities and freedoms of women. Additionally, ageism may be depicted through the marginalization of the elderly or the disregard for their wisdom and experience. Issues related to sexual orientation, religion, nationality, education, and ability are also addressed, highlighting the disparities and injustices experienced by marginalized communities. Through the lens of literature, we gain insight into the societal norms and attitudes of the time, as well as the struggles faced by those advocating for social justice and equality.

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  67. The Old and Middle English periods (c.450-1500), present a complex theme of social norms, values, and perceptions of social justice. In these eras, the concept of justice was often intertwined with notions of honor, loyalty, and divine punishment. In Old English society, the concept of justice was deeply intertwined with notions of kinship, loyalty, and honor. Laws were often based on customary practices rather than written statutes and the rights and freedoms of commoners, especially women and serfs, were limited, and justice was often skewed in favor of the ruling classes. This is evident in texts such as "Beowulf," an epic poem that reflects the warrior culture and hierarchical social structure of the time. In these stories, courage and prowess often determine a person's status and worth, relegating marginalized voices to the shadows. Thus, while Old and Middle English literature may seem distant and inaccessible, it serves as a mirror reflecting timeless questions about fairness, equity, and the pursuit of a just society.

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  68. In the Old and Middle English period, different events were experienced that directly impacted the development and perspective of different social, political, and religious aspects, facts that, to this day, persist in modern culture, whether in the language, religion, customs, etc. One of the most important legacies that this period left was literature, which in one way or another helps us now, in the present, to better interpret and project the way in which the people of that time lived, and even They help us understand the impact that religion and social conflicts affected people. In these texts, the consequences of different social problems were also expressed, such as segregation, racism, the few beliefs that were accepted, social barriers, etc. Several poems such as the one that was cited "The Seafarer". It shows the perspective of a citizen who was banished from his land and expresses with anguish all the terrible moments he has had to live because of this, thus demonstrating that many people could also have gone through this situation of poverty, hunger and humiliation. as well as all the discomforts that people of lower social class had to or could face. Old and Middle English literature provide valuable insights into the social, political, and moral concerns of their time. By examining these works through a critical lens, readers can uncover themes and perspectives that resonate with modern discussions of social justice.

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  69. Having in mind that this age goes from 410 to 1066 AD, the main issues were the religion, wars, gender and mental or physical ability. The reason why we can assert this, it is because of the masterpieces were written in this age, "Beowulf", "Deor", "Caedmon's Hymn” and so forth. Nevertheless, the most important one was the religious issue, English fought against many Vikings. Vikings believed in Odin, Loki, Thor, Valhalla, and Valkirias. Meanwhile, English believed in God, so when wars were taking place, some Vikings were captured and taught to believe in God by English monks. Therefore, English were the ones who spread their beliefs in God. We can see how Beowulf was modified by English monks because it talks about a Viking, and the poem says that Gendel is a representation of Cain and they have to look for help with the catholic God. Nowadays, we can see how this religion is in the whole world, modifying everything for its own convenience. Manuel Vergara Diaz

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  70. The texts from the Old and Middle English periods provide valuable insights into life during that time. Poems and writings from this era help us understand the evolution of the English language. They also shed light on social issues such as nonconformity, social inequality, and the hardships faced by the less privileged. Authors frequently addressed themes like religion, beliefs, nationality, education, sexual orientation, age, and gender. These aspects influenced so much the growth of the language today so that we can still study them and compare them with current situations, with the conflicts that arise in the world, and even with what we live in our daily lives.

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  71. During the period known as Old and Middle English, which spans from about 450 to 1500, literature reflected the complex social justice dynamics and situations of the time. The poems and texts of this period offer an epic vision of the importance of the struggles, honor, loyalty and courage that should characterize nations, as well as address the historical context, customs and traditions of the time and a view of injustices related to racism, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, education and mental or physical ability. These writings reveal the ingrained inequalities in society, where the difference between social classes and discriminatory attitudes towards different groups were evident. Racism and religious intolerance could be seen in the treatment of minorities and dissidents, while there were also gender expectations limiting the freedom and opinion of women. Social class distinctions and educational opportunities also contributed to perpetuating social inequalities. Through these texts, one can see how concerns for social justice were an integral part of everyday life and how writers of the time addressed these issues in their literary works.

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  72. Understanding and being involved in the English literature is crucial for gaining insights into the cultural, historical, and societal contexts of the world. Literature reflects the values and beliefs of different eras, offering a glimpse into the past and diverse perspectives. It also fosters critical thinking and empathy by presenting complex moral dilemmas and diverse characters in the poetry. English literature has evolved significantly over the centuries, influencing renowned authors and setting traditions in writing. This can provide us knowledge of history, cultures, and languages, serving as a source of information and self-expression for us as students. That is to say that exploring the evolution of language in one way or another reveals the impact of wars and invasions on English as a universal language. Knowing the key figures in the development of English literature helps understand its origins and evolution through time.

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  74. During the Old and Middle English period, the notion of social justice was marked by inequality and discrimination in areas such as racism, sexual orientation, religion, and education. Society was structured so that certain groups, such as nobles, had privileges and power over others, such as serfs and peasants. The poem "Deor", although it does not directly address these contemporary problems, does reflect on adversity and injustice in human life. The poem presents the experience of suffering and personal improvement in the midst of difficult circumstances, which can be related to social struggles and resistance against injustice. Both in the context of Old and Middle English and in the poem "Deor", themes and reflections can be identified that have relevance to social justice issues, as they address inequality, discrimination and the fight against adversity in different ways and contexts.

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  75. During the Old English and Middle English period the topics related to racism, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, and others, were extremely taboo. “The first English writers were the Christian monks, they were the only people who could read and write at that time” (Lozano, 2022) This led religious themes to dominate the written word in that decade, such as Caedmon's hymn which is a poem in honor to God. However, some pieces of writing, such as Beowulf included other topics such as heroism, loyalty, and love but used Catholic influence as the origin of Grendel. In terms of gender the role of the women was mainly represented as a mother or a wife. Most of texts of that period time had male protagonist. Over the years, men have lost prominence to give way to women in stories outside of the roles of wife or mother. Understanding gender roles helps us comprehend historical societal structures, and analyzing this type of text helps us have a clearer vision of our past and the direction we should take.

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  76. The period of Old and Middle English (roughly the 5th to 15th centuries) has been a time of dramatic transformation for the English language and the society that used it. The linguistic evolution of Old English, powerfully influenced by the Germanic languages, sounded quite different from what we know today. Middle English, through the Norman Conquest and exposure to French, began to develop into a more recognizable form, as well as a social hierarchy in which society was rigidly hierarchical, with the nobility and clergy holding the greatest power. . The concepts of social justice in the same way that we understand them today were not fully formed, however, in literature issues of gender roles, age and experience, and social order are explored. However, the role of religion in which Christianity has become a dominant force, shaping social constructs and cultural expression. Religious conversion and persecution are prominent themes in several works. The literary landscape of this period produced a rich literary tradition, including epic poems such as "Beowulf" and the rise of figures such as Geoffrey Chaucer in Middle English. Studying these works gives insight into the values ​​and concerns of the era.

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  77. The Old and Middle English periods (5th to 15th centuries) were marked by complex social justice. At the time, the Angles held the positions of power and wealth, women also had fewer rights and opportunities than men. They were excluded from formal education and political participation. Society valued the experience and wisdom of the elders. The Christian religion was dominant and enforced through law and culture. Education was the privilege of the upper classes, so the majority of the population was illiterate, and only the nobility could write all the texts we know today. All of these social injustices that existed at the time are reflected in literature, and knowing the context and everything that was going on at the time helps us to understand this kind of text. For example, The Wanderer shows us that foreigners were considered inferior and could be discriminated against.

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  78. All the Old English history reminds me an anime episode from Vinland Saga. During this episode, Askeladd reflects on the ruins of the Roman Empire, noting how even the most powerful civilizations can be overcome, as the Romans were by the Saxons. This reflection echoes in the history of Old English, a language that also witnessed the transition of power and cultural influence. Old English emerged from the Germanic languages brought to Great Britain by the Anglo-Saxon invaders and evolved significantly over the centuries. Just like the Roman ruins in the series, Old English is a reminder of a distant past, marking the transformation of language and culture on the island.

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  79. In Old English and Middle English literature, social justice was conceptualized within the framework of religious beliefs and social norms, and that literature reflected the influence of Christian doctrine on moral values ​​and social hierarchies.
    There are often Religious institutions played an important role in shaping perceptions of justice, often emphasizing themes such as divine order, virtue, and sin.
    Attitudes toward sexuality were also heavily influenced by religious teachings that promoted the ideals of chastity, monogamy, and reproduction within marriage.
    Some texts affirmed conservative values ​​and social norms, while others challenged prevailing attitudes and offered alternative perspectives on gender roles and sexual mores.
    Overall, social justice in Old English and Middle English literature was closely intertwined with religious beliefs and reflected ongoing debates about morality, justice, and the human condition.

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  80. VALERIA CUARTAS' COMMENT
    During the Old and Middle English periods, social justice was shaped by perceptions of mental and physical abilities. In the texts of that time, people who were seen as mentally or physically strong were often favored, while those considered weaker were marginalized. This created a clear divide in society, where privilege was often determined by one's perceived capabilities. Therefore, Old and Middle English literature reflects a society where fairness was often based on biased views of mental and physical prowess.
    Written by Valeria Cuartas

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  81. Old and Middle English literature reflects a society deeply rooted in its Anglo-Saxon traditions. It was an era where religion permeated every aspect of life, with Christianity dominating literary and cultural narratives because most of the people were illiterate and education was limited to the clergy and the nobles, severely restricting access based on social status. In these pieces of art, we can infer that terms such as “social justice” were linked to religious beliefs and moral order, being the church the one that shaped social norms and what was to be followed and accepted or rejected and judged. Therefore, the ones in power (feudal system) had an actual education and human rights, meanwhile the poor and marginalized suffered just because of their nature and living in such a strict society.

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  82. Yaireth Cabrales’ comment
    In old English culture, social justice was essentially dictated by hierarchies of social status, with rigid class boundaries impacting all aspects of daily life. The main sources of power and privilege were ancestry and inheritance, and nobles and clergy maintained significant influence over social affairs. But this system also kept inequality alive by exploiting and marginalizing slaves, commoners, and serfs. While there were clear disparities based on tribal sympathies and roots that often led to conflict and suffering.
    Regarding Middle English, there were some changes in perceptions of social justice. Gender roles remained deeply entrenched, with women confined to domestic work and subject to patriarchal norms. About Religious beliefs, it continued to strongly influence social attitudes, and the Church played a central role in changing moral codes.

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  83. During the Old and Middle English periods, there was a notable evolution in the perception of social justice. This era was characterized by profound changes in societal norms, governance structures, and power dynamics, all of which influenced how justice was perceived and implemented. In literature and philosophical discourse of the time, there is a discernible focus on issues such as fairness, equality, and the ethical responsibilities of leaders towards their communities.

    The transition from Old to Middle English coincided with shifts in societal values and the emergence of new ideas about justice and equity. Works from this period, such as the writings of Geoffrey Chaucer and the Arthurian legends, often delve into themes of social hierarchy, moral conduct, and the pursuit of a just society. These literary expressions not only reflect the evolving understanding of social justice but also contribute to shaping cultural perceptions and aspirations regarding fairness and equality.

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  84. During the Old and Middle English period, the perception of social justice was linked to the structure of power, to the cultural norms of the time, and to the influence of the church. In this era, society was highly stratified, with a clear division between nobles, clergy and peasants. Justice was administered unequally, reflecting the social status of each individual. At this time, issues such as racism, gender discrimination, sexual orientation, religion, etc., played significant roles in the structure of society, The series "Seven Kings Must Die" vividly illustrates these tensions, offering a glimpse of the injustice rooted in those turbulent times. From the marginalization of ethnic and religious groups to oppression based on gender identity and sexual orientation, the narrative reflects the constant struggle for equality and justice in a historical context marked by inequality and violence.

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  85. GABRIELA BUELVAS' COMMENT:
    In Old and Middle English literature, social justice was often perceived through the lens of divine and moral order. Texts such as "Caedmon's Hymn," "Deor," and "Beowulf" reflect a society where the concept of justice was closely tied to one's adherence to religious virtues and social roles. "Caedmon's Hymn" praises the glory of God as the creator and protector of mankind, emphasizing the importance of faith and obedience to the creator of everything. "Deor," a poem that expresses personal suffering and loss, suggests a belief in a higher power's ultimate justice despite earthly adversities. "Beowulf," with its heroic narrative, underscores the importance of honor, loyalty, and the protection of one's community to the maintenance of justice. These texts reveal a complex understanding of social justice, where individuals actions are seen as part of a larger divine plan, and where the maintenance of order is most important for a harmonious society.

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  86. In the Old and Middle English period, Social injustices were something that happened so regularly at that time that people perceived these problems as something “normal” or “common” and it was reflected in the literature of the time. There was an inequality between the lords who had the power to do whatever they wanted and vassals who were seen as weak, so it can be said that there was an oppression of the weak by the most powerful. Those issues were vividly manifested in literary works such as “Deor’s lament”, “Beowulf'' and “Caedmon's Hymn". the first one refers to battle between suffering and injustice for people being displace of their positions and possessions which is definitely what they lived in that tumultuous period, while the second one explore tension between warriors and their lords where loyalty and betrayal were recurring themes of everyday, and finally the third one shows a glimpse of the power of religion over the people, as at that time the clergyman was the only one who had the power to control the community through the information that they only shared among themselves. These poems highlight the various forms of social injustice embedded in the very fabric of medieval society.

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  87. During the Old and Middle English periods, the perception of social justice in literary texts was influenced by a combination of cultural, religious, and moral values of the time, as well as by power structures and the concept of divine order. In poems such as "Deor," a fatalistic view of justice can be observed, where the characters accept their fate without question, suggesting a resignation to social injustice. In contrast, "Beowulf" highlights the importance of loyalty and honor, where just leaders are those who keep the peace and protect their people. However, this justice is often limited to certain groups, such as warriors or nobles, while others, such as outcasts or enemies, are viewed with distrust or even contempt. Taken together, these texts offer a complex look at social justice at the time, revealing different perspectives on the role of the divine, the human, and the heroic in the search for social balance.

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  88. In literary texts such as "Beowulf," "Deor," and "Caedmon Hymn" the perception of social justice is reflected through power structures and relationships between characters. In "Beowulf," for example, a world governed by strength and honor is portrayed, where acts of bravery and loyalty are rewarded, while betrayal and injustice are punished. This reflects a notion of justice based on merit and adherence to established social codes. In "Deor" and "Caedmon," injustice and suffering are recurring themes reflecting the fragility of the human condition and the lack of equity in society. Through these poems, divine justice is questioned, and the idea that social justice may be elusive and unattainable for those who are marginalized or disadvantaged is explored.

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  90. The Old and Middle English period (approximately between the 5th and 15th centuries), in which the racism racial prejudice in the new sense was not a fundamental issue because most communities were homogeneous. However, tensions between Anglo-Saxons and Vikings, or later Normans, are evident in certain texts. In regard to gender roles were strictly defined. Ladies were mainly subordinate to men, although several held positions of power (queens, noble ladies). Works such as "The Wife of Bath's Prologue" to Chaucer's Canterbury Tales challenge these rules to some extent. Also, age and experience were quite respected in these hierarchical communities. "Beowulf" exemplifies the toll placed on a warrior's strength and intelligence acquired through age. On another hand the sexual orientation in which homosexuality has not been a fundamental focus, however there are provisions for collaborations between individuals of the same sex in legal codes, always with attached punishments. The religion was a unifying force, and Christianity shaped the social order. Religious persecution and conversion are themes in several works, especially after the Norman conquest in 1066. The nationality, national identity was not fully realized, however conflicts between different peoples (Anglo-Saxons against Vikings) are represented. In education the Formal education was limited to the nobility and the clergy. In addition to this, the cost of understanding and intelligence is a frequent theme in many works, such as “The Wanderer” or “Beowulf.” Lastly the mental or physical ability in there is no deep focus on disability in such texts, physical strength and agility were highly valued, which could marginalize those with restrictions.

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  91. During the period known as Old and Middle English, the perception of social justice was influenced by a complex interaction of political, religious, and social factors. It's worth adding that society was permeated with profound inequities and inequalities in terms of social justice. Racism was an omnipresent reality, with discrimination and segregation deeply rooted in the social and legal structures of the time. Age was also a determining factor, with both the young and the elderly facing unique challenges and often being marginalized from full participation in society. Similarly, gender differences imposed significant restrictions on women, limiting their opportunities and rights compared to men. Sexual orientation, religion, and nationality were also grounds for discrimination and persecution, while education and mental or physical capacity influenced the available opportunities and access to basic resources and services. Finally, through these stories, universal themes related to the human condition are explored, such as honor, courage, loyalty, and resilience in the face of injustice, providing a deeper insight into human experiences in a world marked by inequality and injustice.

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  92. During the period known as Old and Middle English, works such as "Beowulf" and "Hymn of Cædmon" offer a rich exploration of how social justice, religion, gender and oppression were perceived at the time. "Beowulf" celebrates warrior culture and values masculine virtues, while portraying a nuanced understanding of justice intertwined with loyalty and honor; this poem reflects the coexistence of Christian and pagan beliefs, indicative of the transient nature of the era. On the other hand,"Cædmon's Hymn" emphasizes divine inspiration and creation, underscoring the importance of religious faith and communal identity. Both texts offer insight into the gender norms and power dynamics of their time, illustrating the challenges faced by individuals within hierarchical societies. Through the study of these works, we gain valuable insights into the diverse perceptions of social justice in Old and Middle English literature.

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  93. According to Iñaqui Iriondo Saez (2006) by studying the relationship between language and society, sociolinguistics provides valuable insight as to why languages change. Consequently, events such as the spread of Christianity, the extensive settlement over great areas of Britain by Scandinavians, and the Norman Conquest during the Old and Middle English periods, led to huge social changes which were to considerably affect the structure and use of the English language.

    The Old English period was a time marked by the establishment of the Church, as well as by political fragmentation, a hiatus in city life, a lack of major learned centers and the Viking invasions. Naturally, all these circumstances were to have a profound effect on the development of Old English.

    As can be seen in the poem And Wilt thou Leave me Thus by Sir Thomas Wyatt, Under Henry VIII, social justice was influenced by factors such as the consolidation of monarchical power, religious conflicts, and political tensions. On the one hand, legal reforms and the centralization of royal power could be interpreted as attempts to establish a more equitable and uniform justice in the kingdom. On the other hand, changes in the economy, including the expansion of capitalism and the consolidation of land ownership in the hands of the aristocracy and the bourgeoisie, could have exacerbated social and economic inequalities.

    In conclusion, it is important to note that perceptions of social justice during Henry VIII's reign varied according to the social position and political views of everyone and that these perceptions were varied and often reflected the inequalities of power and status that characterized the society of the time.

    Maria fernanda vega

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  94. During the period of Old English literature, literary works deeply reflected the social injustices prevalent in the society of the time. Issues such as racism, sexual discrimination, religion, and education were intertwined with the social structure marked by inequalities. The literature of the time, while not directly addressing these contemporary issues, did offer insight into adversity and injustice in human life. For example, in works such as "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight" or "The Knight's Tale" by Geoffrey Chaucer, one can observe how social class and position in the feudal hierarchy influence the actions and perceptions of the characters. Nobles enjoy privilege and power, while peasants and servants are relegated to a lower status, subject to abuse and exploitation. Even in more abstract works such as the epic poems, like "Beowulf," elements suggesting social tensions and inequalities can be traced. Heroes are often figures fighting monsters and evil forces, but they can also represent the struggle against social injustices and oppression.

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  95. When examining Old English literature, we immerse ourselves in a world that reflects the realities and concerns of Anglo-Saxon society during the period spanning from the 5th to the 11th centuries. This era is characterized by a rich diversity of works, among which epic poems like "Beowulf" and laments like "Deor" stand out. Through these works, we can glimpse the values, social structures, and tensions of the time.

    Old English literature often focuses on heroic figures and legendary exploits, as seen in "Beowulf," where the bravery, loyalty, and honor of warriors and kings are exalted. These narratives not only celebrate heroic feats but also reinforce the ideals of leadership and the importance of family and tribal bonds.

    On the other hand, works like "Deor" offer a more intimate and reflective perspective, exploring themes of loss, suffering, and resilience. These laments give voice to the individual experiences of those facing adversity and pain, providing an emotional counterpoint to the heroic epics. Through lyrical poetry, feelings of alienation, despair, and the transience of earthly happiness are expressed.

    Together, Old English literature offers a multifaceted view of the society and culture of the time, from the glories and challenges of life at court to the struggles and sorrows of the marginalized and dispossessed. Through the study of these works, we can appreciate the richness and complexity of medieval life, as well as the depth of wit and creativity of the writers who shaped the literary landscape of ancient England.

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  96. The period known as Old and Middle English, reflects various aspects related to the perception of social justice in its literary texts.for example, in "Beowulf", conflicts related to age and bravery are raised, where the exploits of the younger warriors are valued over the older ones, reflecting a perception of justice based on strength and physical courage. In "Deor", themes of injustice and inequality are addressed, especially in the sphere of social and labor relations, where the struggle for fairness and recognition of merit is reflected. On the other hand, the "Caedmon Hymn" can be interpreted as an expression of religious inclusion and diversity by focusing on praising God in a context that embraces different spiritual beliefs and practices.
    It is important to reflect on how these themes continue to be relevant in our society today. Although we have advanced in many aspects of social justice, we still face challenges in terms of discrimination based on age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, and other factors. Ancient literature reminds us that the struggle for social justice is an ongoing journey and that each generation has a responsibility to work toward a more equitable and compassionate society. Furthermore, by examining these ancient texts, we can appreciate the richness and diversity of human experiences over time. Although the historical contexts may differ, the fundamental concerns about justice, equality, and respect for diversity are universal and timeless. Thus, reflection on ancient literature invites us to look back to better understand our present and build a more just and humane future.

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  97. In the Old and Middle English period, represented in works such as "Beowulf", "Deor" and "Caedmon Hymn", a particular perspective of the social justice of the time is observed. "Beowulf" shows a society in which loyalty and honor are valued, in which justice is achieved by following the code of conduct imposed by leaders and heroes. In contrast, "Deor" presents a darker perspective by highlighting the suffering and inequality that can affect even the most virtuous people. In the same vein, "Caedmon's Hymn" conveys a sense of acceptance and optimism, indicating that social equity can be found not only in the actions of individuals, but also in divine generosity. These works paint a complicated picture of social justice in ancient and medieval England, where honor, fate and faith are key elements in the perception and pursuit of equality in society.

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  99. Due to the impact in Old and Middle English era, the social issues had been throughout history. Different events has been confronted direct and indirectly. Those type of life’s are representing how people is living today; expressing themselves in every way possible. A good example of this, it is the Caedmon‘a hymn. It is well known the Christianism and the church prevalence at that time, but nowadays how controversial is. The consequences of following only one dictum. Moreover, literature is an important factor to evolve the critical thinking, as being a tremendous source to help those barriers. Such as poetry, songs, architecture, drawing, and among others. Not only being an issue for religion, algo in nationalities and education as well. To sum up, the various and wisdom forms of social injustices are explored providing a deeper understanding of human experiences and thoughts.

    María Elisa Guerra

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  100. In my opinion, it is been really interesting to learn more about the history of the language we have been studying. It is amazing to see how much it's changed over time. Old English sounded a little bit weird for me, which was surprising. Learning about the history and development of English has made me appreciate it even more. English literature is also really important because it inspires modern literature and helps us understand the past. Even though some stories might have fictional parts, they still give us a sight into the past. Overall, I think it's fascinating to learn about all of this.

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  101. During the Old English and Middle English period, literature reflected a society marked by norms and values that influenced the perception of social justice. The literature of this century frequently addresses issues of identity, belonging, and the fight against oppression, reflecting the moral and social concerns of the society of the time. In texts such as the Caedmon hymn, the religious context is implied, and how society is strongly governed by those beliefs. Furthermore, the texts represent the tensions and prejudices that existed in the society of the time, although they do not explicitly address these issues. Perceptions of justice were affected by factors such as class, origin, and social justice was seen through a cultural and religious prism, which was common in a society where identity was strongly tied to faith and loyalty. to the community.

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  102. The period known as Old and Middle English covers a time of profound social and cultural changes in Europe, reflected in the literature of the time. In works such as "Deor's Lament," "Beowulf," and "Caedmon's Hymn," there is a vision of social justice rooted in concepts of loyalty, honor, and destiny. These texts reflect a society structured around the figure of the leader or king, where social justice is understood in terms of equity and protection of the community, but is also influenced by the idea that destiny plays a crucial role in the life of the people. Through the literature of this time, you can see how social justice was conceived in a context marked by war, religion and the search for a divine order in the earthly world.

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  103. Because Old English interprets the human experience for us, I believe it was a very crucial setting for today's literature. Because of it, we know the fundamentals of the humanities. We shall be able to speak more effectively with one another and gain a basic understanding of the significance of the medieval era to the extent that we possess knowledge regarding these matters. The text hints at the existence of cultural shifts during that period, which may have contributed to the evolution of Old English and its increased literary significance.
    Consequently, English has emerged as a universal language and should be mastered above native speech. English is essential in the workplace since it is a

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  104. The so-called social justice that is shown in the Old and Middle English periods, based on the lyrical texts already seen ("Caedmon's Hymn", "Deor" and "Beowulf") greatly influenced something that we perhaps overlooked at first, which It appears so explicit that it is downplayed, perceptions of physical and mental ability deeply rooted in religious and social norms. For example, "Caedmon's Hymn" portrays abilities as divine gifts, coming from an uncertain past but focusing on a dogmatic belief in a hierarchical order where talents are granted by a higher power rather than earned through individual effort. "Deor" explores the resilience of people facing adversity, as compared to the present times, showing abandonment as evidence that marginalized members of society may have faced, highlighting the human ability to persevere in the face of hardship. incontinence, a section more rooted in the physical is what we are taught in "Beowulf" The idea of a hero is exalted, a society that values physical prowess where heroism is measured by one's ability to conquer enemies in battle, reinforcing a hierarchical structure that favors those with exceptional physical skills.

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  105. During the Old and Middle English periods, racism was different from how we understand it today. Although modern notions of race and racism had not fully evolved, there were ethnic prejudices and xenophobia reflected in society and literature at the time.

    In the Old English period (approximately from the 5th to the 11th century), England was primarily inhabited by Anglo-Saxons, who considered their culture superior to that of the peoples who lived in the British Isles before their arrival, such as the Britons and Celts. These "others" were often depicted as barbarians or enemies in the literature of the time.

    During the Middle English period (from the 11th to the 15th century), after the Norman Conquest in 1066, tensions arose between the Normans (who spoke French) and the Anglo-Saxons (who spoke Old English). Although these tensions were not primarily based on race but on culture and language, they could be considered early forms of ethnic discrimination and xenophobia.
    It is important to note that the modern conception of race as a biological and determinant factor did not exist at that time. The concept of race as we understand it today developed later, during the era of European colonization and the transatlantic slave trade. Therefore, while there were forms of ethnic prejudice and discrimination in ancient and medieval England, it cannot be directly equated with modern racism.

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  106. English literature has a tumultuous historical backdrop of war, invasion, and cultural assimilation that shaped the early English identity. It cleverly highlights the profound influence of various invading forces on English society, language, and culture, while also noting the essential role of religion, particularly Christianity. The establishment of the Anglican church under King Henry VIII is recognized as a significant turning point, signaling a shift away from the authority of the Catholic Church and towards greater national autonomy. The thematic diversity of early English literature, including religious themes, heroes, battles, love, and personal experiences, allows a more nuanced exploration of the linguistic evolution of English literature, and the specific contributions of early Christian monks as writers and custodians of culture and learning. A deeper analysis of surviving literary fragments and their significance enriches our understanding of the development of English literature during this formative period.

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  107. Early English literature exhibited remarkably diverse, surrounding religious themes, tales of heroism, battles, explorations of love, and personal experiences. These varied themes served as a reflection of the societal and cultural context in which they were produced, providing insight into the concerns, values, and beliefs of the time. Moreover, they laid the groundwork for the linguistic evolution of English literature, as writers grappled with the challenges of expressing themselves in a language that was still in change. The contributions of early Christian monks to English literature cannot be forgotten, they were primary literate members of society during this period and played a crucial role in both the creation and preservation of literary works. Many of these early literary works have been lost to history, fragments that have survived offer tantalizing glimpses into the rich tapestry of early English literary traditions. A deeper analysis of surviving literary fragments and their significance can greatly enrich our understanding of the development of English literature by exploring the themes, styles, and influences that shaped early English literature, we gain valuable insights into the cultural, intellectual, and linguistic evolution.

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Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare