Anglo-Saxon
Riddles
Literature 11th
A-B
Definition

What is a riddle?

Share a riddle you know.
The word riddle comes from an Old
English word that means “advice” or
“opinion”.
Definition
It is a puzzling question posed as a
problem.
They used them to teach kids the
language, but adults would join as
well.
Exeter Book

In this book you will find the oldest riddles
in the world.

Anglo-Saxon riddles used to personify the
common things being described.

Often the personified objects assumed the
first person and described themselves.

It can be found in the Exeter Cathedral.
Presence of both: Helpful and misleading
clues.
Characteristics
of riddles
All clues are connected to the object.
Some details may lead you on the wrong
direction when taken out of context.
Authors may use alliteration, similes,
personification or metaphors.
Activity

Read with your teacher Riddle 14 from the Exeter Book and
solve it.

Solve Riddle 32 on your own. You will get a Word document
with instructions to solve it.