History and Structure of the English Language

5th – 6th centuries Anglo-Saxons

English

Descendants of the German

Ruled England for 600+ years

9th century Normans invaded France

Took on French customs and language

1066 King Edward

(Edward the Confessor) died

Rightful heir (great-nephew Edgar) was too young to reign, so Harold II was appointed king by the Saxon Council of Elders.

William, Duke of Normandy

Cousin of Edward vowed Edward had promised him the throne.

WAR WAGED!! Battle of Hastings ends war between William

and Harold.

King William I

William wins

“William

the

Conqueror”

Anglo-Saxon England is dead

English Language changes

French words are introduced into English culture

Saxon

1154 Henry Plantagenet = Henry II

Able king with interestsin law and government

Conflict with the Church

Church of England – All powerful!

Corruption! Indulgences Excommunications Courts

Archbishop of Canterbury

Vacancy

Thomas á Becket Appointed

Friend of Henry II selected

Allegiances tested.

1170 Thomas á Becket murdered on the altar

stairs of Canterbury Cathedral!

Henry condemns their actions!

Takes pilgrimage to Canterbury

Annual pilgrimages begin