Important Anglo-Saxon Words
Here is a collection of some of the more important and widely known Anglo Saxon words-
- Comitatus
- The agreement between the king and his warriors which stipulates that, in return for shelter, food, and gifts, the warriors will protect the king in battle with their lives.
- Boast
- A rash promise or pledge to perform an act, usually made in the meadhall due to intoxication. Originally, this simply meant a pledge
- Blood vengeance
- Belief that a family is honor bound to retaliate against another tribe that has offended or attacked a member of their clan.
- Wergild
- The alternative to blood vengeance or the man price or payment to the opposing tribe as a peaceful way to end disputes.
- Thanes
- The name for the warriors, which represented their elevated status over the common man.
- Geats
- Name of the tribe to which the hero Beowulf belonged.
- Peace-weaver
- The name given to women who are married off to the men from opposing tribes as way to bring about peace.
- Mead
- Alcoholic beverage that was staple during Anglo Saxon times. The mead-hall evolved around the drink and became the center of the community.
- Ring-giver
- Name for the king, who gave gifts of gold rings and other treasures as prizes to deserving warriors.
- Valhalla
- The afterlife for the Anglo-Saxon people. In Valhalla, warriors battle all day and feast all night.
- Runes
- Word meaning secret; early form of writing used during the Anglo Saxon period. These symbols were usually inscribed on weapons and armor and included magical charms.
- Standard
- War banner given to a hero after a great victory or buried with a great king as a tribute into the Afterlife.
Beowulf the King
Created By Judith Mathieu, JM86812n@pace.edu
Nancy Azcona, DaNana31@aol.com
Last Modified: March 21, 2004