The Medieval Period

1066-1485

Historical Context

Normans conquer Anglo-Saxons

Feudalism - property for service

Normans imposed superiorityFrench influenceDomesday Book – census in 1085-

William the Conqueror Overlords, feudal manors, knights,

serfsIn later part - swords replaced with

guns; feudal order replaced with aristocratic code

Norman rule ends in 1154 when Henry II takes throne

Conflict with churchAppoints Becket who defies himBecket is killed at Canterbury by

knights loyal to Henry II during evening services

Shrine prompts CrusadesKing John - Magna Carta

Not to tax land without first meeting with Barons

Limit power of king 1215Parliament begins to represent

peopleCrusades – 11th century Turks take

over Jerusalem (Holy Land)Angers Christians

Pope Urban II calls for crusade to recover land in 1096

Starts war between Muslims and Christians

Town GrowthBlack Death (plague) 1348-49

Lancanster kings take over - Henry IV-VI

1381 revolt of feudalism failedChurch strengthens - heretics

prosecuted - Inquisition1453 - War of RosesHouse of York - white rose

House of Lancaster - red roseYork wins - Edward IV is kingRichard III takes over after

mysterious death of Edward’s children in tower of London

Richard III is killed by Henry Tudor

Robin Hood Legend

Literary MovementsRoger Bacon - father of English

philosophyLatin influenceRomance – verse, prose, chivalry,

courtly loveMovable type (Gutenberg) increased

literacy

Legend of ArthurChaucer - Canterbury TalesLyrics and BalladsMystery and Morality plays -

EverymanWizards, dragons, supernaturalFantasy, adventure, courtly loveReligion and Chivalry

Writer’s Techniques

Composed orallyPrinting pressPoetryProse near end of periodKenningsalliteration