Student Question
How did Christianity's spread and the Norman conquest influence English literature?
Quick answer:
The spread of Christianity and the Norman Conquest introduced new French and Biblical vocabulary to English literature, enriching its language. This period saw the development of a class system, inspiring authors like Chaucer to explore social dynamics, while poets like Spenser used Christian themes to convey moral lessons, as seen in works like "The Faerie Queen." These influences significantly shaped English literary themes and language.
Christianity and the Norman Conquest of 1066 by William the Conqueror introduced into the English language new French and Biblical words and phrases from which authors could draw upon and reference in their writing. A class system was developed in England where the Clergy and the French nobility were at the top and the English peasants were at the bottom. This led authors like Chaucer to write about the idiosyncrasies of the class system whereas poets like Spenser drew upon Christian teachings to teach lessons of life through heroic knights like the Redcrosse Knight in "The Faerie Queen." For a fun and interesting ten minutes about the subject, check out the YouTube link below from a video by The Open University (PG-13 FYI). :)
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.