The History of English Podcast: Episode 47 - "The Man Who Saved English"

Host: Kevin Stroud
Release Date: August 4, 2014
Description: The Spoken History of a Global Language

Introduction to Episode

In Episode 47 of The History of English Podcast, Kevin Stroud delves into the life and legacy of Alfred the Great, the 9th-century King of Wessex, and examines his pivotal role in preserving the English language amidst Viking invasions. Stroud sets the stage by recounting the transition of Vikings from raiders to settlers and conquerors during the second half of the 9th century, highlighting how Alfred managed to stem the tide of Viking conquest and secure Anglo-Saxon culture and language.

Corrections from the Previous Episode

Stroud begins by correcting a previous statement about King Ecgberht, clarifying that Ecgberht was Alfred the Great’s grandfather and actually the 34th great-grandfather of Queen Elizabeth II, not the 14th as previously mentioned.

“[00:09]...I should have said he was her 34th great grandfather.” – Kevin Stroud

Early Life of Alfred

Alfred, the youngest of five sons of King Athelwulf, was initially not expected to inherit the throne due to his health issues, likely suffering from Crohn’s disease. However, his lack of warrior training allowed him to pursue education, developing a deep love for books despite limited access to formal learning.

“[00:09]...he went back to his mother and recited the poems in the book, so the book became his.” – Kevin Stroud

Viking Invasions: First and Second Phases

The episode outlines the first phase of Viking invasions characterized by raids and temporary settlements, which destabilized the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. Stroud then transitions to the second phase beginning around 850 AD, marked by the establishment of permanent Viking bases, such as the Siege of Canterbury and London, leading to the formation of the Danelaw.

The Great Heathen Army and Establishment of Danelaw

In 865 AD, the arrival of the Great Heathen Army, led by the sons of Ragnar Lodbrok, signaled a significant escalation in Viking efforts to conquer and colonize England. Their swift conquests led to the fall of Northumbria and East Anglia, consolidating Danish control over large parts of eastern England.

“[00:09]...this invasion of 865 is just that, an invasion. This wasn't simply a raiding party...” – Kevin Stroud

Rise of Alfred as King of Wessex

After a series of battles and the eventual death of his brother Athelred, Alfred ascends to the throne of Wessex at age 21. Despite initial setbacks, including nine battles against the Danes in his first year, Alfred's perseverance begins to turn the tide against the Viking invaders.

Battle of Eddington and Peace Treaty with Guthrum

The climax of the episode covers the Battle of Eddington in 878 AD, where Alfred decisively defeats Guthrum’s forces. This victory leads to a peace treaty that partitions England between Alfred’s Wessex and the Danelaw, ensuring the survival of Anglo-Saxon culture and language.

“[00:09]...it was a huge victory for the West Saxons and it secured the ultimate survival of the Anglo Saxon culture and language.” – Kevin Stroud

Alfred's Administrative and Military Reforms

Post-victory, Alfred implements significant reforms to strengthen Wessex and protect it from future Viking threats:

1. Creation of Burhs: Fortified towns strategically placed to ensure that no part of Wessex was more than 20 miles from a burh, facilitating rapid defense and fostering trade.

   “[00:09]...these fortified towns or burrs began to grow, and they became centers of trade and commerce...” – Kevin Stroud

2. Development of Shires: Replacement of the traditional hundreds with shires centered around burhs, each governed by an ealdorman and overseen by a reeve (eventually becoming the modern sheriff).

3. Formation of a Standing Army: Introduction of a rotating military service system to maintain a permanent force without neglecting agricultural duties.

4. Establishment of the English Navy: Commissioning the construction of uniquely designed Anglo-Saxon ships to challenge Viking dominance at sea, though initial naval engagements were fraught with difficulties.

Linguistic Insights from the Episode

Stroud explores the linguistic interplay between Old English and Old Norse, illustrated through stories like "Alfred and the Burning Cakes," highlighting the deep Norse influence on the English language. He explains how words such as "cake" and "quagmire" have roots in Old Norse, demonstrating the extensive cultural and linguistic integration resulting from Viking settlement.

“[00:09]...the current English words were either taken directly from Old Norse or were heavily influenced by Old Norse.” – Kevin Stroud

Conclusion and Setup for Next Episode

The episode concludes by emphasizing Alfred's role in unifying the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms and fostering a sense of English identity through language and culture. Stroud teases the next episode, which will focus on Alfred’s educational and literary reforms, including his efforts to revive Anglo-Saxon education and promote English as the primary written language.

“[00:09]...next time, we'll look at how Alfred promoted the English language in a way that had never occurred before.” – Kevin Stroud

Key Takeaways:

• Alfred the Great’s Leadership: Alfred’s strategic military and administrative reforms were crucial in preserving Anglo-Saxon England against Viking conquest.

• Cultural Preservation: By establishing fortified towns, a standing army, and promoting the English language, Alfred ensured the survival and flourishing of English culture and language.

• Linguistic Legacy: The integration of Old Norse into Old English laid the foundation for modern English, a theme that continues to influence the language today.

Notable Quotes:

• “[00:09]...Alfred was pretty much the last person anyone would have considered for a future king.” – Kevin Stroud
• “[00:09]...it was a huge victory for the West Saxons and it secured the ultimate survival of the Anglo Saxon culture and language.” – Kevin Stroud
• “[00:09]...the current English words were either taken directly from Old Norse or were heavily influenced by Old Norse.” – Kevin Stroud

For those interested in the intricate history of the English language and the figures who shaped it, Episode 47 offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Alfred the Great’s enduring legacy.