I. Historical Context

A. Centuries of Invasion

1. Early Britain (55 B.C. – 449 A.D)

a. Julius Caesar claimed victory over Britain, but went back to Rome

b. the Britons, Picts, and Gaels were left in peace

c. the Romans returned a century later and Britain became a province of Rome

d. Romans introduced “technology,” education, and Christianity to the Britons

2. Anglo-Saxons (449 A.D. – 790 A.D.)

a. Germanic tribes (Angles & Saxons) helped fight off the Romans

b. The Angles & Saxons eventually conquered the Britons, and Britain was re-named “Angle-land” (England)

c. Anglo-Saxon culture and language took over

3. Vikings (790 A.D. – 871 A.D.) a. Danish invaders who began

with “hit and run” strategy, but liked England’s climate better than their own.

b. defeated by Anglo-Saxon king Alfred the Great

B. The Norman Conquest

1. Edward the Confessor dies without an heir.

2. William, duke of Normandy, claims that Edward made him the heir

3. a council made Harold the king after Edward died

4. William conquers Harold in The Battle of Hastings and becomes William the Conqueror (and king).

It cannot be seen, cannot be felt,Cannot be heard, cannot be

smelt.It lies behind stars and under

hills,And empty holes it fills.

It comes first and follows afterEnds life, kills laughter.

Answer: darkness

Alive without breath,As cold as death;

Never thirsty, ever drinking,All in mail never clinking.

Answer: a fish

On earth this warrior is strangely bornOf two dumb creatures, drawn

gleamingInto the world, bright and useful to

men.It is tended, kept, covered by women

—Strong and savage, it serves well,

A gentle slave to firm mastersWho mind its measure and feed it

fairlyWith a careful hand. To these it brings

Warm blessings; to those who let it run

Wild it brings a grim reward.

Answer: fire