语言文学一章.ppt

Chapter Two
The Norman Period (1066 - 1350)
Background Knowledge
The Norman Period (1066-1350)
1) The Norman conquest in 1066 accelerated the development of feudalism in England.
King
Barons
church
knights
The all-prevailing influence of the Medieval church
1/3 land;
political power;
religious authority
Social Conflicts
serfs and the peasants
Vs.
feudal lords
(the king, the baron, the
church)
The Middle English
1. Latin, the language of the Roman Catholic Church;
2. French, the language used in literature and documentation;
3. English, spoken language of the majority of mon English people.
Religious Literature
The theme of most of the teachings are concerned with personal salvation, moral and spiritual responsibilities, repentance etc.
French Influence and Romance
the breeding ground: the aristocratic society in France , a type of narrative that developed in 12th-century France.
Typical features
1. a tale in verse, embodying the life and adventures of knights.
2. liberal use of the improbable, of ten of the supernatural;
3. romantic love;
4. easy and colloquial style.
Subject Matters
1. the Matter of Britain;
2. the Matter of Rome;
3. the Matter of France;
4. the Matter of England. Etc.
Representative Works of Romance
King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table;
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight《高文爵士和绿骑士》