Final answer:
The Anglo-Saxons transferred their poetic forms, such as alliteration and kennings, to the English language, with their literary practices deeply influencing Old English literature exemplified by the epic poem Beowulf. They also brought their cultural values and oral traditions, helping shape the English identity. Architectural contributions like flying buttresses, however, are not attributed to them but to later influences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Anglo-Saxons Influence on English
The Anglo-Saxons were instrumental in shaping modern English culture in many ways. One of their notable contributions was the transferral of their literary traditions to the English language. The Anglo-Saxons were known for their use of poetic forms such as alliteration and kennings, elements pervasive in Old English literature. An example of this is the epic poem Beowulf, which makes extensive use of such poetic devices.
Despite the influence of later invaders like the Vikings and the Normans, much of the Anglo-Saxon literary and cultural imprint remained. Apart from the literary realm, they also brought with them their own culture, language, and societal norms, which laid the groundwork for the English identity. However, it is important to clarify that the use of architectural techniques such as flying buttresses is attributed to the later Gothic style of the Normans, not the Anglo-Saxons.
Their oral tradition was rich and comprised a number of sagas and tales, some of which were later transcribed into written form. This transition from an oral to a written culture played a pivotal role in preserving these narratives for future generations. The Germanic oral culture, valuing stories of warriors and heroes, set the tone for English storytelling traditions.