To analyze the cultural conflict between the Greeks and Anglo-Saxons we chose Sermo Lupi ad Anglos. Written around 1010-1016 AD by Wulfstan II, this text is fitting for observing the conflict because Wulfstan’s criticisms regarding the actions of the Anglo-Saxons reflect their culture before the end of this era. From this we can infer the differences between the two societies using our previous knowledge of the Greeks. One major difference was their religion: The Anglo-Saxons converted to Christianity while the Greeks believed in a polytheistic religion. It can also be inferred that the Anglo-Saxons didn’t take their religion very seriously during this time; Wulfstan complains: “… but here we have stripped the Church and her servants of honor and of wealth”. The Greeks though paid hefty tributes to their gods and built many temples for them. In addition to the level of devotion, the methods of salvation varied, the Anglo-Saxon religion stressed repentance as the resolution to sin while upon angering the Greek gods…death might be preferable as shown in Oedipus. Another issue would be each society’s approach to pride. The sermon criticizes the tendency of the Anglo-Saxons to be prideful as shown in the quote “On account of pride no one repents of their sins…”. Although this is human nature, the Greeks were more cautious towards their arrogance as shown through stories like Oedipus where pride is the downfall of many heroes. There are still other cultural differences that can be explored, but this sermon generally lists some main aspects of Anglo-Saxon society that contrasts sharply with Greek society.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Asher.p4.t9 Anglo-Saxon Synthesis Question
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The Anglo-Saxons were a very religious people. Not only were they part of Christianity, but before their conversion they practiced the pagan religion, which is the worship of multiple gods. The Greeks similarly worshiped multiple gods, also known as polytheism which has been addressed previously. The point about Anglo-Saxons and how "religion stressed repentance as the resolution to sin" is quite well written. As Christianity was a major part of their culture, repentance comes along with Christianity as its companion so to speak. Also, the point on how it is easier to perish than to suffer the wrath of Greek gods is well put. Like Oedipus, he had suffered his own "moira", or fate, and felt nothing but shame and how he wanted to die. His embarrassment led him to forfeit the throne and to die alone. The Anglo-Saxons believed, however, that God would take them up to Heaven when their time had come to an end, and that there would be no wrath. As stated, Greeks were cautious about their arrogance and sense of humility, where as the Anglo-Saxons were proud: about themselves, their villages and their triumphs in battle. The Greeks and the Anglo-Saxons, although different societies, had similarities when it came to religion and how they went about their daily lives, which is an influence upon the success and how closely they are related to past history. Although the two eras ran simultaneously for a brief period, their similarities and differences make them a family of cultures, submerged in the mysteries of life and pride for one’s nation.
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