This poem summarizes the many changes experienced by the Anglo-Saxons over time, from their migration to England after the Romans left, through the various kingdoms that arose, invasions by Vikings and Normans, and the ultimate decline of Anglo-Saxon culture with the Norman conquest of 1066. The poem touches on influences like Christianity, the writing of Beowulf, battles between kings, and how William the Conqueror forced the crown upon himself, ushering in a new era that led to the decline of Anglo-Saxon people and culture.

1. Ben Nelson<br />Period 1<br />November 15, 2010<br />Where I’m From TT Poem<br />I am from Many Great Changes<br />I’m from the exhaustion and hunger<br />Of migration to England after the Romans moved out.<br />From having our own culture,<br />Not a Roman one.<br />I am from Old English,<br />Used to write the epic poem of Beowulf.<br />I’m from influences that have impacted modern society<br />And from being influenced by St. Augustine, which changed our religion.<br />The political changes we went through from small tribes<br />To the large kingdoms of Northumbria, Mercia, East Anglia and Wessex.<br />From the sorrow of the death and bloodshed following Viking invasions,<br />But also from the joy of King Edred defeating the Viking foes<br />And establishing a great new kingdom.<br />As well as Alfred the Great rising up to defeat the Danes,<br />He and his ancestors giving back land to our people.<br />I’m from the Danes taking back land,<br />As well as them taking the throne.<br />I am from the political struggles<br />Over the heir to the throne<br />Of King Edward the Confessor.<br />From Duke William’s army storming Harold’s castle,<br />Forcing the crown upon his own head<br />Making him King Edward the Conqueror.<br />I’m from the many great changes that happened<br />As Edward ushered in a new era,<br />Which led to our decline.<br />Oh, I am from the many great changes<br />In all shapes and forms,<br />From language to laws, Edward the Conqueror changed us.<br />I am from the Anglo-Saxons,<br />From the joy of our beginning, to the sorrow of our end.<br />