Question

read \literary focus: the medieval period.\ after you read, complete the think questions below. think questions 1. what specific themes, characters, and plot points might audiences of medieval literature find in a typical epic poem or medieval romance? cite evidence from the text as support. 2. what were the expectations of knights in medieval times? why do you think they were expected to behave this way? explain, citing textual evidence to support your response. 3. how did the fact that anglo - saxon society was largely illiterate affect entertainment during this time period? explain. 4. use context clues to determine the meaning of the word chivalry as it is used in this text. write your definition here, along with the words and phrases that were most helpful in coming to your conclusion. finally, consult a dictionary to confirm your understanding. 5. the word exploit has multiple meanings. use a print or digital resource to clarify and validate which meaning is used in this text. cite any context clues that were helpful in determining the word’s meaning.

Explanation:

1. For the first question, medieval epic poems and romances often had themes like heroism, honor, and the struggle between good and evil. Characters such as knights and damsels in distress were common, and plot - points included quests and battles. Evidence would come from the text's descriptions of these elements.
2. Knights in medieval times were expected to be brave, loyal, and chivalrous. This was due to the feudal system and the code of chivalry which emphasized moral and martial virtues. Textual evidence could be descriptions of knights' oaths or their actions in battles and quests.
3. In an illiterate Anglo - Saxon society, entertainment was mainly oral, such as through bards who told stories and sang songs. This was because written literature was not widely accessible.
4. To determine the meaning of "chivalry", look for words and phrases in the text that describe knights' behavior, like courage, courtesy, and protection of the weak. Then, confirm with a dictionary.
5. For the word "exploit", analyze the context in the text, such as whether it refers to heroic deeds (noun) or taking advantage of something (verb), and use context clues like the actions of characters or the overall situation in the text. Then, use a print or digital resource to validate.

Answer:

1. Themes: Heroism, honor. Characters: Knights, damsels in distress. Plot - points: Quests, battles. Evidence would vary based on the text.
2. Expectations: Brave, loyal, chivalrous. Reason: Feudal system and code of chivalry. Textual evidence varies.
3. Entertainment was mainly oral, through bards, as written literature was not accessible.
4. Definition based on context clues in text, with helpful words/phrases noted, then confirmed with dictionary.
5. Meaning determined by context clues in text, with clues cited, then validated with a resource.