Exeter Book

Definition

The Exeter Book is a 10th-century anthology of Old English poetry, considered one of the most important surviving collections from the Anglo-Saxon period. It contains a wide variety of works, including religious poems, elegies, and riddles, showcasing the richness of Old English language and poetic forms. The collection reflects cultural, historical, and literary traditions, serving as a vital resource for understanding early medieval literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Exeter Book is housed in Exeter Cathedral and is one of the four major Old English poetic manuscripts that survive today.
2. It contains approximately 95 poems, covering themes such as faith, mortality, and the human experience.
3. The manuscript is notable for its unique mix of genres, including religious verse, secular poetry, and especially riddles that demonstrate linguistic playfulness.
4. The poems are written in alliterative verse, a hallmark of Old English poetry that relies on the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words.
5. Scholars consider the Exeter Book vital for understanding Old English literature and its role in shaping medieval English identity.

Review Questions

• How does the Exeter Book exemplify the characteristics of Old English poetry?
  • The Exeter Book exemplifies Old English poetry through its use of alliterative verse, which is a key feature of this literary tradition. It showcases various themes such as heroism, faith, and mortality, typical of Anglo-Saxon culture. The collection includes different genres like elegies and riddles, which further highlight the range of poetic expression in this period.
• Discuss the significance of riddles in the Exeter Book and what they reveal about Anglo-Saxon society.
  • Riddles in the Exeter Book are significant not only as a form of entertainment but also as reflections of Anglo-Saxon thought and culture. They often incorporate everyday objects and experiences, allowing insight into the daily lives and values of the people during that time. The playful nature of riddles also indicates a cultural appreciation for language and intellectual challenge within society.
• Evaluate the impact of the Exeter Book on our understanding of medieval literature and its historical context.
  • The Exeter Book has had a profound impact on our understanding of medieval literature by providing access to a diverse range of Old English poetic forms and themes. Its preservation allows scholars to analyze linguistic development and cultural shifts during the Anglo-Saxon period. Furthermore, studying its contents helps illuminate broader historical contexts such as religious beliefs and social dynamics that shaped early medieval England.

Related terms

Anglo-Saxon: Refers to the early inhabitants of England, their culture, language, and the period from around 410 AD to 1066 AD.

Riddles: A specific genre of poetry found in the Exeter Book, characterized by enigmatic descriptions that challenge the reader to solve them.

Elegy: A mournful poem reflecting on loss or lamentation, several examples of which are included in the Exeter Book.