Introduction to Church Literature: The Spread of Christianity
What institution was central to the production of early English literature?
The Church.
What type of themes did Cynewulf write about?
Christian
What was Caedmon’s occupation before he became a poet?
Herdsman
What is Bede best known for writing?
Ecclesiastical History of the English People.
What was Alfred the Great's title?
King of Wessex.
What language did Christianity introduce into English literary culture?
Latin
In what century did Cynewulf write his poetry?
9th century.
What miraculous event led Caedmon to compose poetry?
A dream
In what language did Bede write his works?
Latin
What language did Alfred translate Latin texts into?
Old English.
Where were religious manuscripts typically copied?
Monasteries
What poetic device is Cynewulf known for using to sign his name?
Runes
What is Caedmon’s most famous poem?
Caedmon’s Hymn.
What system did Bede popularize for dating historical events?
Anno Domini (AD).
Name one Latin work Alfred translated.
Pastoral Care.
What religion influenced Anglo-Saxon literature after conversion?
Christianity
Name one of Cynewulf's most famous works.
Christ II.
In what language did Caedmon compose his poetry?
Old English
Where did Bede spend most of his life?
Monastery of Jarrow.
What did Alfred promote among his people?
Education.
Which Christian teaching greatly shaped early English texts?
The Bible.
What is a key focus of Cynewulf’s poems?
Salvation
Who recorded the story of Caedmon’s life?
Bede
What is Bede often called due to his historical work?
"The Father of English History."
How is Alfred often remembered in English history?
"The Great."