Life of Alfred the Great
by Asser
'Life of Alfred the Great ' Summary
Introduction:
The book "Life of Alfred the Great" by Asser provides a historical account of the life and accomplishments of King Alfred, who ruled the Kingdom of Wessex in the 9th century. Asser, a Welsh monk and scholar, served as Alfred's biographer and provides valuable insights into the king's character and achievements.
Alfred's Early Life and Pursuit of Learning:
Asser's account begins by outlining Alfred's ancestry and early life, highlighting his education and interest in learning. It emphasizes Alfred's commitment to scholarship and his efforts to revive learning and culture in England during a time of Viking invasions and turmoil.
Alfred's Military Campaigns and Strategic Brilliance:
Asser describes Alfred's military campaigns against the Vikings, emphasizing his strategic brilliance and determination to defend his kingdom. The book portrays Alfred as a skilled leader who successfully combated Viking invasions, safeguarding Wessex and its people.
Government Reforms and Legal Code:
The book highlights Alfred's efforts to reform and strengthen his government, including the establishment of a legal code and the promotion of justice. Asser underscores Alfred's commitment to maintaining order and fairness within his kingdom.
Alfred's Commitment to Education and Scholarly Pursuits:
One of the significant contributions of Alfred was his focus on education. The book discusses his personal involvement in promoting learning and his patronage of scholars. Alfred's translation of important Latin texts into English is also emphasized, as it played a crucial role in preserving knowledge and making it accessible to the English-speaking population.
Alfred's Faith and Moral Character:
Asser paints a picture of Alfred as a pious and devout Christian, illustrating his religious beliefs and his desire to rule with justice and righteousness. The book portrays Alfred as a man of moral character, whose faith guided his actions and decisions.
Personal Struggles and Challenges:
The book also mentions Alfred's personal struggles, including his bouts of illness and the challenges he faced in maintaining peace and stability in his kingdom. Asser humanizes Alfred by highlighting the difficulties he encountered and his unwavering commitment to his people's well-being.
Conclusion:
In "Life of Alfred the Great," Asser provides an insightful account of King Alfred's life and achievements. Through his scholarship, military prowess, government reforms, and dedication to education, Alfred left an indelible mark on English history. Asser's work serves as a testament to Alfred's enduring legacy as a wise and just ruler, whose contributions to learning and governance continue to inspire generations.
Book Details
Language
EnglishOriginal Language
WelshPublished In
1904Genre/Category
Tags/Keywords
Author
Asser
United Kingdom
Asser was a Welsh monk from St David's, Dyfed, who became Bishop of Sherborne in the 890s. About 885 he was asked by Alfred the Great to leave St...
More on AsserDownload eBooks
Listen/Download Audiobook
- Select Speed
Related books
Summer Days in Shakespeare Land by Charles George Harper
"Some delights of the ancient town of Stratford-upon-Avon and the country round about, together with a sketch of the life of Mr. William Shakespeare,...
A Popular History of France from the Earliest Times, Vol 3 by Francois Guizot
François Pierre Guillaume Guizot was a French historian, orator, and statesman. Guizot was a dominant figure in French politics prior to the Revolutio...
Cape Coddities by Roger Livingston Scaife
It is a collection of humorous and charming stories about life in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, written by Roger Livingston Scaife. The book was first publ...
Celebrated Crimes, Vol. 2: The Massacres of the South by Alexandre Dumas
Dumas's 'Celebrated Crimes' was not written for children. The novelist has spared no language--has minced no words--to describe the violent scenes of...
The Confessions of a Poacher by John Watson
John Watson's "The Confessions of a Poacher" is a captivating and insightful look into the life of a man who has lived on the fringes of society, rely...
The Homilies of the Anglo-Saxon Church by Ælfric of Eynsham
It is an engaging and enlightening book suitable for young readers. This collection of homilies, written by Ælfric during the late 10th and early 11th...
More About Pixie by Mrs. George de Horne Vaizey
Pixie is back, and she's more adventurous than ever! In More About Pixie, Mrs. George de Horne Vaizey's sequel to her popular children's book Pixie,...
Daniel Boone, the pioneer of Kentucky by John Stevens Cabot Abbott
This is a detailed biography of the life and adventures of Daniel Boone. His accomplishments are brushed over in history classes these days and not gi...
Richard II (Makers of History Series) by Jacob Abbott
Chronicles the life of Richard II, born in 1367 in Bordeaux, France, who later wore the crown of King of England.
A Woman's Way Through Unknown Labrador by Mina Benson Hubbard
Mina Benson Hubbard set out in 1905 on a 576 mile canoe journey across the interior of Labrador with the assistance of four guides. Her husband Leonid...
Reviews for Life of Alfred the Great
No reviews posted or approved, yet...