Viking Literature

     This 4-week unit is designed to introduce students to the effect that Norse literature had on early British literature and to phase into Beowulf with the use of the Lord of the Rings films and the Old English Elegies. Particular attention is paid to the Norse myths and their cultural significance. Students wil also be able to select novels to read as ancillary literature. Students will discuss the significance of the choice novel with the instructor. Finally, the culminating activity for the unit will be a cultural presentation and feast where students bring dishes, both traditional and non, and give miniature presentations on their findings concerning Viking society.

Required Materials:

The Norse Myths Kevin Crossley-Holland

Myth and Knowing: An Introduction to World Mythology Scott Leonard and Michael McClure

NorthSeamus Heany

The Broadview Anthology of British Literature: The Medieval Period

The Lord of the Rings