Anglo Saxon Writing Project

  • Write a short research paper (2 pages) related to Anglo Saxon life and create a related project.
  • Correct MLA format is to be used in the paper. At least 2 scholarly resources are required.
  • Papers are written individually. DO NOT SHARE YOUR RESEARCH WITH ANYONE! Paper will be uploaded to Turnitin.com. However, projects may be done with a partner or a small group.
  • Present your findings and visual to the class.Reference Beowulf as it relates to your project.
  • Due Monday, October 3, 2011

Projects:

  1. Research Anglo-Saxon architecture and construct a model of a mead hall (Herot) or house. The Sutton Hoo wesbite may be a good place to start. (Suggested projects: map, floor plan, 3-D model, poster).
  2. Research Viking ships (similar to the Anglo-Saxons) and create a representation (drawing, painting, or model).
  3. Research - Anglo Saxon art and jewelry – (create a visual or 3-d model )
  4. Research Anglo-Saxon women and their role in society, including their fashion. (Create a poster, clothing article, model, doll, etc.)
  5. Research Anglo Saxon games and sports. (Create a visual or 3-D model)
  1. In the Middle Ages, before the invention of the printing press, books were rare and extremely valuable. Each book had to be hand copied. Imagine how long it would take to re-copy all of Beowulf. Many books were “illuminated.” That means that the books had beautiful artwork to accompany the text. Even books that were not illuminated throughout often had a “versal” which is an illuminated first letter. Research what some of these versals looked like and their use. (Create a versal for two pages of Beowulf or 2 Anglo Saxon poems). Besides creating the versals, illuminate the entire page. See teacher for advice).

7. Beowulf’s sword was of great importance and value to him. In fact, weapons were important in the warrior society of the Anglo-Saxons. Research what these weapons looked like and how they were used. Create a presentation for the class, which explains who had the weapons, how they were used, and what they looked like.

8. When it was presented in the mead hall Beowulfwas sung by a scop who accompanied himself on the harp. Choose a section of the epic and set it to music. Then, perform for the class. (Note: The following websites give an overview of music and music styles of the Anglo-Saxon period.)

(Projects 6.7.8 – courtesy of Chesterfield, VA school district)