King Alfred: was he really all that 'great'? Artwork

'tis but a scratch: fact and fiction about the Middle Ages

Talking about popular conceptions of the Middle Ages and their historical realities. Join Richard Abels to learn about Vikings, knights and chivalry, movies set in the Middle Ages, and much more about the medieval world.

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'tis but a scratch: fact and fiction about the Middle Ages

King Alfred: was he really all that 'great'?

September 28, 2023 • Richard Abels • Season 2 • Episode 27

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After a hiatus we are back with the long promised episode about King Alfred of Wessex (871-899), the only English king to be called "the great." In this episode, Richard gives an overview of Alfred's reign and accomplishments and explains why the Victorians thought he was great--and why Richard does as well.

The musical introduction is the opening of "Rule Britannia" from the masque "Alfred," performed by Jamie MacDougall, Jennifer Smith, Philharmonia Chorale, Nicholas McGegan & Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra
From the album "The Last Night of the Proms: The Ultimate Collection"

The exit music (as always) is by Alexander Nakarada

Listen on Podurama https://podurama.com

Intro and exit music are by Alexander Nakarada

If you have questions, feel free to contact me at richard.abels54@gmail.com

People on this episode

Richard Abels

Host

ellen H Abels

Co-host