Lesson 1.01: The Pre-Anglo-Saxon Period

Introduction
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Task

Following successful completion of this lesson, students will be able to:

Connect historical development to a piece of literature from that time period
Determine how a sequence of chronological events creates subject matter for literature
Research the etymology of his/her surname

The above objectives correspond with the following Alabama Course of Study Objectives: CCRS 10Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text leaves matters uncertain., CCRS 16Integrate and evaluate multiple sources of information presented in different media or formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively) as well as in words in order to address a question or solve a problem., CCRS 20Write informative or explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content. and CCRS 25Conduct short research projects to answer a question, including a self-generated question, or solve a problem;

Introduction

Welcome, Students, to British Literature! I hope you find your ACCESS English 12 class to be exciting and adventurous. We will take quests throughout Europe to meet lots of courageous people and fascinating places.

In this unit, you will read the first known epic poem Beowulf. The poem was written before the development of the English language about a tale that has survived centuries. You will also complete several assignments on our journey that are creative, thought-provoking, and rigorous. It will help you at the end of the unit if you will complete the graphic organizers during each of your readings.

Epic Poetry

1. The protagonist, or main character, is the hero.

2. He goes on a long journey or quest.

3. The setting is wide-spread.

4. He completes heroic deeds of great valour.

5. He has superhuman strength.

6. He battles monsters and supernatural forces.

Open the Beowulf, the Epic Hero Word document. As you read the epic poem Beowulf, complete the chart for each of the three important conflicts: Beowulf vs. Grendel, Beowulf vs. Grendel’s Mother, Beowulf vs. the Dragon.