Old English

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Historical Background

In B.C. the introduction of literary civilization was introduced to Britain. The first settler on this island was Caesar. It was then invaded by the Romans and the Britons. The invasion lasted until A.D., when Emperor Claudius took rule. That’s when Britain became under Roman rule, both politically and militarily. With the Romans ruling, change was constant. Education and schooling became a key factor, with the church playing a major role. Britain was then invaded by the Anglo-Saxon and the Jutes. The result of these invasions was four main nations, English, British, Picts and Scots. Each of which carried their own language and culture. One common unit was the Latin language. Another language that became was the Celtic, but that didn’t survive.

Later the English drove out the Britons, which communication didn’t last. Slowly, the English became more developed which made them more powerful. In 739 the English civilization was threatened by the Norwegian sea-raiders. In 870 they attacked and were defeated by King Alfred. During the Anglo-Saxon period, church was the most powerful force. Scriptural writing was used in that time.

The Norman Conquest and Later

The Norman Conquest took place in 1066, which were the descendants of Scandinavians. Through French the Normans invaded Britain. This resulted in the French language and culture, which made it as important as the English. Language was divided, Latin for learning, old English for speaking and writing. Whereas law and government was in French. In the Middle Ages French entered the literature. This changed the grammar of English. The French created one kingdom from many.

William the conqueror’s method of asserting his power was orderly, simple, autocratic and novel to the English. He declared everything the king’s. by the fourteenth century the English kingdom was at it’s height of political strength and economic growth. Education was a...