Survey of British History

From the Anglo-Saxons to today

The Anglo-Saxons, 449–1066

From the fall of Roman rule to

William the Conqueror

Britain’s “Dark Ages”5th century – Many Germanic elements

had already settled in Britain.5th & 6th centuries – Roman legions

withdraw from the island. Germanic mercenaries are increasingly hired for city protection.

English presupposed Celtic as the dominant language.

Individual cities strive to survive and subdue potential threats: tribalism.

7th – 9th centuriesAnglo-Saxon (Germanic and

Scandinavian) Britain forms multiple smaller kingdoms.

Constant in-fighting keeps the island separated into these smaller kingdoms.

Vikings continually invade and sack British towns. 100 years of invasions.

King Alfred the Great unites and defends the island from the Danish Vikings, 878.

10th and 11th centuriesAlfred’s defense against the Danes

secured southern England from the pagan invaders.

Danes settled northern England.Britons show signs of nationalism

through stories, art, and religion.Alfred’s use of the common tongue,

English, promoted education to all.The consolidated kingdom brought

stability and safety.

Religions of the Anglo-SaxonsAnimism – spirits live everywhere and

control everything. Mystery and the unknown dominate thought, actions, and art.

Christianity – Pope-centered; most British kings were converted along with their subjects. Unifying force for England against outside pagans.

Social ConsiderationsTribalism and Animism propagate fear,

but make for fascinating myths and legends. Stories remain today.

Christianity, brought by Augustine, helps develop literacy, although much of it is in Latin. Also brings the Bible and other works of literature to England.

Women held property even after marriage; they were considered equals by most men.

Literary ContributionsEnglish language, Old English, written

using Latin letters in phonetic style;Beowulf and “The Seafarer”;Celtic myths and legends;Monastic life: both women and men

contributed significantly to education and literary development;

Libraries in the monasteries.

Questions for ConsiderationLiving in this environment, what would

be some of your primary daily concerns?

What were some of the motivations for art? How do we know?

Why was development and general progress slow during this period?

What, would you say, was the biggest advancement during this age? Why?