Anglo-Norman

Definition

Anglo-Norman refers to the variety of Norman French spoken in England after the Norman Conquest of 1066, which significantly influenced the English language and literature. This cultural and linguistic blend arose from the fusion of Old Norman and Old English, creating a unique dialect that was used by the English aristocracy and in literary works during the medieval period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Anglo-Norman served as the language of the English court and law for several centuries after the Norman Conquest, influencing legal terminology in modern English.
2. Many words borrowed from Anglo-Norman became part of everyday English, especially in areas such as law, art, literature, and government.
3. Literary works in Anglo-Norman included romance tales, fables, and histories, which helped establish a rich tradition of storytelling in England.
4. The decline of Anglo-Norman began in the late medieval period as English regained prominence, leading to a shift towards Middle English as the primary language of literature.
5. Chaucer's works reflect both Anglo-Norman influences and a transition to Middle English, showcasing the dynamic linguistic landscape of medieval England.

Review Questions

• How did Anglo-Norman influence the development of Middle English?
  • Anglo-Norman significantly shaped Middle English by introducing a wealth of vocabulary and phrases into the language. After the Norman Conquest, the ruling class primarily spoke Anglo-Norman, leading to its integration into everyday English. This blending resulted in a richer lexicon, especially in law and literature, paving the way for the evolution of Middle English.
• What role did Anglo-Norman play in the literary culture of medieval England?
  • Anglo-Norman played a crucial role in medieval England's literary culture by providing a means for writers to engage with both aristocratic audiences and traditional narratives. Literary forms such as romances and fables flourished in this language, allowing authors to draw from both French literary traditions and local themes. As a result, works produced during this time showcased a unique blend of cultural influences that contributed to England's evolving identity.
• Evaluate how Chaucer’s use of language reflects the transition from Anglo-Norman to Middle English in his works.
  • Chaucer's writing exemplifies the shift from Anglo-Norman to Middle English by incorporating elements from both languages while also emphasizing a distinctly English voice. His use of narrative forms and diverse characters reflects a growing accessibility of literature to broader audiences beyond the aristocracy. This transition not only illustrates Chaucer’s skill as a storyteller but also marks a significant cultural change, where English began to reclaim its place as a dominant literary language after centuries of Anglo-Norman influence.

Related terms

Norman Conquest: The 11th-century invasion and occupation of England by the Normans, led by William the Conqueror, which resulted in significant social and linguistic changes.

Middle English: The form of the English language spoken from about 1150 to 1500, which evolved from Old English and was heavily influenced by Anglo-Norman vocabulary and grammar.

Chanson de geste: A medieval narrative poem that celebrates heroic deeds, originating from the Old French literary tradition that influenced Anglo-Norman literature.