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What Is A Kenning In Beowulf?

Category: Literature
Explanation:

A kenning in Beowulf is a literary device often used in Old English poetry, particularly in the epic poem "Beowulf." It is a figurative expression or compound word that replaces a single noun, usually a common noun, with a creative and often metaphorical description. Kennings serve to add depth, imagery, and poetic ornamentation to the text, enhancing the listener's or reader's understanding and engagement with the narrative. For example, "whale-road" is a kenning for the sea, and "battle-sweat" is a kenning for blood. These poetic expressions contribute to the rich and vivid imagery of the poem while also reflecting the cultural and linguistic complexities of the time.

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What Is A Kenning In Beowulf?. (2023, Aug 11). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/qa/literature/what-is-a-kenning-in-beowulf

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