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Exodus : A Culturally Blended Anglo Saxon Britain

Decent Essays

Brenna Hubschman
Professor Jones
English 4513
24 September 2017

“Exodus” in a Culturally Blended, Anglo Saxon Britain

The Old English poem “Exodus” exemplifies the complex mixture of influencing forces within Anglo Saxon culture at the time of its writing. As discussed in class, sixth and seventh century (the time leading up to the creation of “Exodus”) Britain were periods of increased Christian missionary work. It is important to note, however, that while Christian missionaries began to greatly influence and shape Anglo Saxon Britain, the conversion of its people was not achieved quickly or all at once. “Cultural blending” is a term discussed in class in regards to the mode of conversion utilized by Christian missionaries in Anglo …show more content…

The poem begins immediately by introducing a major theme within epic poetry: the journey home. Instead of a physical journey to one’s homeland, (though the Israelites to make such a journey in Exodus) the authors makes reference to the reward of “the heart’s homeland” at the end of the travel. This statement not only exercises an awareness of the Old English poetic tool of alliteration, but also utilizes twist on the epic literary themes that would have likely been more easily received by an audience likely familiar with epic storytelling through Greco-Roman influence during the Roman occupation of Britain, and/or through Germanic heroic writing such as that found in the story Beowulf, written around the same time as “Exodus.” Like the “Exodus”, Beowulf “belongs metrically, stylistically, and thematically to a heroic tradition grounded in Germanic religion and mythology. It is also part of the broader tradition of heroic poetry (Encyclopedia Britannica).” Further evidence of the varying influences behind “Exodus” can be seen with the victory of the Israelites as they are given freedom from their enemies as well as favor by God, and they make their way toward the promised land of both Heaven and Israel.
“The trumpets of victory
Sang a beautiful song of bright victory,
And the banners were raised. All of the Israelites
Were home free on

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