KENNINGSA kenning is a figurative, compound expression used in place of a name or noun, especi
or Old Norse poetry; for example, storm of swords is a kenning for battle. Early kennings were basically synonyms that scop
at they could maintain the alliteration of a line of poetry. [Alliteration requires that at least two words begin with the same c
H.] Kennings became so popular in their early stages that about one-third of the text of Beowulf is composed of them. Some
me so common that they became clichés, such as ring-giver for every prince, but in the best kennings one element of the p
striking, unexpected comparison. In Beowulf, kennings provide imagery that would help the audience focus on the words of
telling the story, and allow the scop some variety so that words don't become
Activity #1: Listed below are some modern kennings. Can you find examples of alliteration and/or imagery
among them? Identify the object each represents:
1. gas guzzler:
2. cancer stick:
3. muffin top:
4. Couch Potato:
5. land line:
6. eye candy: