The poem uses alliteration.
The poem relies on a pattern of stressed syllables.
The language of the poem sounds very different from modern English.
Listen to an excerpt from Beowulf here.
Write two to three sentences explaining what you notice about the language of the poem.
In the excerpt from Beowulf, I notice the use of alliteration as a key feature of the Old English language. The repetition of initial consonant sounds creates a rhythmic and musical quality to the text. Additionally, the vocabulary and syntax are more archaic and complex compared to Modern English.
Sample Response: I can hear that Beowulf uses alliteration and a pattern of stressed syllables. The language of the poem does not sound much like modern English, likely because Old English is more closely related to Germanic languages.
What did you include in your response? Check all that apply.
The poem uses alliteration.
The poem relies on a pattern of stressed syllables.
There are pauses.
The language of the poem sounds very different from modern English.
1 answer