The early Middle Ages saw the rise of epic poetry from "summary" of A Short History of English Literature by Benjamin Ifor Evans
In the early Middle Ages, epic poetry emerged as a dominant literary form in English literature. This period, also known as the Dark Ages, was characterized by a lack of centralized authority and stability, leading to the rise of oral traditions as a means of preserving cultural and historical narratives. Epic poems were passed down through generations by word of mouth, often recited by bards or storytellers in communal gatherings. One of the most notable examples of epic poetry from this period is Beowulf, an Old English poem that tells the story of a hero who battles monsters and dragons to protect his people. Beowulf is a prime example of the values and ideals of the early Middle Ages, such as loyalty, bravery, and honor. The poem also reflects the pagan...Similar Posts
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