However before he came to power Alfred was unfortunately remembered for burning the cakes. King Alfred had a lot on his mind. In fact the fate of the country. Whilst in disguise and on the run he stopped briefly at an old woman’s humble abode. While she went out for a while Alfred was entrusted with watching over supper only to be scolded by her when culinary duties had been neglected whilst Alfred was devising his tactical strategies. Nonetheless King Alfred’s host apologized profusely when his true identity was revealed.
King Alfred's Government
King Alfred was a devoted scholar and greatly encouraged literacy amongst the nation, making reading material more widespread and accessible. He utilised the candle clock and devised a day into three compartments. Eight hours were for sleeping, eight for working and the remaining hours were for other activities of which Alfred spent a substantial part reading.
King Alfred was bold and brave, though measured and forward thinking as opposed to arrogant and brash. Alfred’s time devoted to study made him an able linguist. As a spy he managed to enter the Danish encampment and acting as a bard was able to win their praise and admiration gaining vital information concerning their plans to conquer his armies.
King Alfred greatly developed England’s infrastructure and efficiency of government. He also vastly increased the production of ships that would be able to counter strikes from sea faring nations, in particular the Vikings. In 897 AD the Danes attacked the South Coast of Wessex, which was the last remaining kingdom. Nevertheless Alfred’s competency in shipbuilding meant that they were able to capture two out of nine of the attacking Danish ships and though the Saxons were more numerous it is noteworthy that were approximately twice the number of casualties from the Danish fleet.
King Alfred's Legacy
In addition King Alfred established no less than thirty fortified towns across Wessex that were fortified and garrisoned and a field force that was patrolling on horseback.
King Alfred was a deeply committed Christian man and implemented and applied biblical principles to his governing of England. Alfred wrote a law code that was a practical application of the Ten Commandments. Alfred understood that the greatest two laws that Jesus commanded were to love the Lord your God with all your heart soul strength and mind and to love your neighbour as yourself (c.f. Matt:22:37-38) and that Christ did not come to do away with the Law but to fulfil it! (See Matt 5:17-18)
King Alfred’s title ‘Great’ remains with him and is an exception for English rulers. Various institutions have been named after him even today, such as King Alfred’s College in Winchester, though more than a thousand years has elapsed since he died. He is still renowned for his bravery and success in military victories, particularly with respect of the Navy.
References
Du Garde Peach & Kenny, J. King Alfred the Great (Ladybird Series 561)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfred_the_Great
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