Understanding British History

A body of expressive culture, including stories, music, dance, legends, oral history, etc.

Folklore helps us better understand cultures from the past and present

In studying the folklore, we can better understand the history we’ve covered in class

•The legend of King Arthur begins around the time of the “fall of Rome”

•At this time, Britain was being invaded by the Anglo-Saxons.

•Today, nobody is sure of the true origins of King Arthur, but many believe he originated from Celtic legend.

•Through the stories of King Arthur, we can see the values from Celtic, Roman, and Medieval (Feudalism) culture

There are many versions of the King Arthur legend, but many of the ideas are similar

From the period of Celtic and Roman Britain There is the threat of the Anglo-Saxons Through the stories the values of honor, loyalty,

hospitality, honesty, justice and courage. In Welsh language Arthur means “bear”- The bear was

considered a god in Celtic culture From the period of feudalism

The Knights of the Round Table-represents equality Chivalry- the values of bravery, courtesy, honor and

courtesy towards women. Later stories involve Christianity (religion)

•Beowulf is often considered one of the most important works in British literature

•Takes place in Scandinavia

•Originally told orally, but first written in Britain

King Hrothgar and his people are terrorized by the monster Grendel.

Beowulf comes to help fight the monster, and defeats him.

Beowulf becomes famous and is given gifts (gold, jewels, etc.), but the people are soon threatened by Grendel’s mother.

Grendel’s mother and Beowulf have an underwater battle in which Beowulf kills her.

Beowulf becomes a great king and rules for fifty years.

Then, a large dragon begins to kill many of Beowulf’s men. Beowulf prepares for his last battle.

Beowulf dies in this final battle. His body is burned and his people bury him with lots of treasure.

The story reveals a “heroic code of honor”

“The Warrior Culture”- Kings are meant to protect their people. The kings demand loyalty and bravery from their subjects.

The mead hall-A gathering place to drink, tell stories, and receive gifts. It is considered a sacred and safe place.

Grendel and the dragon, represent a time of constant invasion.

•A popular hero in British culture.

•His story originates in the 12th and 13th centuries

•“Robs from the rich and gives to the poor.”

•Constant conflict with nobles (suppress the people)

•Prince John- A greedy man who wants to become king. Many peasants suffer under his rule with his taxes and laws.

Taxes and harsh laws (remember when we discussed the Magna Carta or The Great Charter?)

The system of feudalism cannot work if power is abused.

Through the stories of Robin Hood (There are many tales!), one can see the class struggles found in period of feudalism.

•Wallace is considered one of Scotland’s greatest heroes.

•Helped start a revolt against British rule.

•Eventually captured by the British. He was tortured and executed (killed).

•Robert the Bruce (we have seen him in the movie Braveheart) we eventually lead Scotland to independence.

Oliver Twist was a novel written by Charles Dickens

Oliver is a young orphan who is forced into labor, becomes a thief and is constantly abused.

Oliver finally escapes and moves to the countryside.

The horrible life of poor people in large cities

The exploitation of children

The crowded cities are a dark placeThe countryside is ideal