Characteristics of Old English

Periods of English

• Old English 449—1066• Middle English 1100—1500• Modern English 1500 forward

Influences on OE

• Celtic

Meager influence. Celtic preserved primarily in place names. Two main groups of words:

• 1. Popular words Anglo-Saxons learned through everyday contact with Celtic natives,

2. Words introduced through Irish missionaries in the North.

Influences on OE

• Latin—3 periods First Period--occurred on continent

before Germanic tribes penetrated reached England. reflected early contact between Germanic tribes and Roman Empire

Second Period--acquired from Celts after invading England

Influences on OE

• Third Period--Roman missionaries introduced Christianity

EARLY: 597, St. Augustine sent to Christianize Anglo-Saxons; conversion gradual; many

churches & monasteries builtLATE: Benedictine Reform caused by Danish invasions at end of 8th

century

Influences on OE

• Scandinavian Influence• Three main attack periods:

1. Period of early raids: recorded in Anglo-Saxon Chronicle in 787 and intermittently until 850

Influences on OE

Large armies; widespread plundering. In 850--Danish fleet arrives, captures Canterbury London, & countryside. West Saxon army defeats them, but attacks resume. Shortly after Alfred's accession, Wessex attacked; Alfred hides in marshes, regathers troops, attacks and defeats Guthrum and Danish army. Danes then sign Treaty of Wedmore (878), defining line; foreigners to remain east of line; east land known as Danelaw.

Influences on OE

• 878-1042--period of political adjustment & assimilation; Guthrum frequently broke treaty, but situations improved under Alfred's son, Edgar (900-25) & grandson Athelstan (925-39)

Influences on OE

• More invasions• Vikings–Battle of Maldon–Olaf, King of Norway–Aethelred the Unready–Cnut--OE period ends