THE LEGACY OF OLD ENGLISH LITERATURE IN MODERN ENGLISH CULTURE
Keywords:
Keywords: Old English literature, Beowulf, Anglo-Saxon culture, heroic narratives, linguistic influence, literary traditions, moral values, historical chronicles, modern English literature, cultural heritage.Abstract
Abstract
This study investigates the lasting impact of Old English literature on modern
English culture, emphasizing the ways in which early medieval texts continue to inform
contemporary literature, language, and cultural understanding. Texts from the Anglo-
Saxon period, including epic poems, religious compositions, and historical records,
preserved the moral values and heroic ideals of their society while establishing the
foundations for later English storytelling traditions. Through the analysis of works such
as Beowulf, The Dream of the Rood, and early chronicles, the research highlights how
themes like heroism, moral guidance, and stylistic features such as alliteration have
been adapted and reinterpreted in subsequent English literary works. Additionally, the
study examines the linguistic influence of Old English, including vocabulary, sentence
structure, and expressive techniques, which continue to shape modern English writing.
The research also underscores the importance of Old English literature in forming a
sense of cultural identity, historical awareness, and literary continuity. Recognizing
these contributions allows a deeper appreciation of the enduring legacy of early English
literature in shaping contemporary literary and cultural landscapes.
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