Alfred the Great: The Hero in Modern English Memory
Alfred the Great, a king of Wessex from 871 to 899, is widely recognized as a national hero in England. His reign and legacy are celebrated for multiple reasons, including his defense against Viking invasions, his contributions to education and law, and his efforts in unifying Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. However, his prominence in modern English popular culture is often overshadowed by other historically significant figures.
Widespread Recognition
Alfred the Great's reputation as a national hero is firmly rooted in his military successes and his commitment to education and literacy. One of his most significant military victories occurred at the Battle of Edington in 878, where he decisively defeated the Viking army. His promotion of learning and literacy laid the foundation for future English culture and governance. These achievements have had a lasting impact on the perception of Alfred in English society.
Fading Memory in Modern Times
However, in modern times, Alfred's memory has obscured somewhat, particularly when compared to other figures from England's past. Andrew Whyte notes that Alfred is not a particularly prominent figure in contemporary English popular memory. This is further reinforced by the observation that Anglo-Saxon history is no longer as fashionable as it once was.
During the Victorian era and well into the first half of the 20th century, Anglo-Saxon history was a popular subject of study and celebration. Alfred held a particularly high place in these discussions. Names like Edward, Edmund, Harold, and of course Alfred, were all popular at the time. Even during World War II, there were references to Alfred's strength, particularly in the context of his leadership during a time of crisis.
Historical Context and Legacy
During the imperial age of the British Empire, Alfred was celebrated as a founder of national greatness. However, with the decline of the empire and the perceived loss of national self-confidence post-World War II, Alfred's relevance has diminished. Today, he is often relegated to academic circles and is rarely mentioned in modern school curricula, beyond the well-known story of him burning cakes while studying.
Challenges in Perceiving Alfred Today
The scarcity of reliable sources about Alfred's life and actions poses a significant challenge in fully understanding and assessing his legacy. Many of the contemporary sources are often considered biased, leading to a lack of a complete picture of his character and achievements. This, combined with the passage of time, has made it difficult for modern generations to connect with him as a living figure.
When it comes to the rankings of English national heroes, Alfred falls far down the list compared to figures like Churchill, Shakespeare, and King Arthur. The Anglo-Saxon era, during which Alfred lived, does not currently resonate in the same way the Tudor era does, despite its historical significance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Alfred the Great remains an important figure in English history, his resonance in the modern era is limited. Despite multiple significant contributions, his image and legacy are often overshadowed by other historical figures and the changing cultural and political landscape of the United Kingdom.