Arecurring theme in literature is the transient nature of the world and life. provide two ways in which this theme is expressed in anglo-saxon and medieval literature.

Anglo-saxon and medieval literature are highly influential upon germanic cultural traditions and customs as well as christianity - both being dominating aspects of life in the middle ages. anglo-saxon is rooted from germanic tribe migrations.  the transient nature of world and life in the mythological personifications of germanic culture involves themes of seeking fame, fortune, success, and epic tales since there no mention of a promised afterlife. christianity dominated medieval religion and daily life, and strongly came to influence literature with promises of eternal life that made the world and life feel transient.