why was King Alfred called 'the great"

defeated the Danes
1. He made the Treaty of Wedmore with Guthrum
  1. Guthrum said he would leave Wessex because of Alfred keep some of the important Vikings as the hostage
2. Guthrum was made a Christian. Danelaw was established
3. Alfred was now the real ruler of England outside Danish lands.
Defending the kingdoms
1. Burhs- fortified towns (espec. around Wessex, Roman walls used if poss.)
2. Army- (fyrd) reorganized and always ready for action
3. Navy- A new fleet built to counter the Vikings at sea.
"Englands schoolmaster"
1. Alfred learned to read and write, in English and latin at aged nearly 40
2. Set up schools for sons and nobles
3. Translated books from Latin to 'Englic' (the Anglo Saxon which was mainly a spoken language) including Beds History
A keen historian
1. Started the Anglo Saxon Chronicle, a kind of a diary in years rather than days. From Alfreds time onwards it is very detailed; before his time it is rather sketchy. The A-S C was kept by monks in monasteries around England. (One goes up to 1154)
2. He wanted his people to know who they were and where they came from.
Lawgiver
1. Alfred the lawgiver is remembered through his book of Doom (law)
2. He took the most Laws from the other kingdoms and used them for Wessex for the Protection of his people
Alfred is thought of as a hero of the christian church
1. Built many fine buildings churches, monasteries and royal halls. Led well through his Christian example

Resource summary

	Created by Arianna Bellusci over 6 years ago