Alfred the Great by G.K. Chesterton
Alfred the Great is a biography of Alfred the Great written by G.K. Chesterton. The book covers Alfred's life from his childhood to his death, including his struggles against Viking invaders and his efforts to unite England under one rule. It also discusses Alfred's contributions to education, law, and culture during his reign as king.
By G.K. Chesterton · First published 1904 · Genre: Historical Biography, Historical Analysis, Philosophical Reflection · 1,568 words
First lines
The celebrations in connection with the millenary of King Alfred struck a note of sympathy in the midst of much that was unsympathetic, because, altogether apart from any peculiar historical opinions, all men feel the sanctifying character of that which is at once strong and remote; the ancient thing is always the most homely, and the distant thing the most near. The only possible peacemaker is a dead man, ever since by the sublime religious story a dead man only could reconcile heaven and earth. In a certain sense we always feel the past ages as human, and our own age as strangely and even weirdly dehumanised. In our own time the details overpower us; men's badges and buttons seem to grow larger and larger as in a horrible dream. To study humanity in the present is like studying a mountain with a magnifying glass; to study it in the past is like studying it through a telescope.
What this Textopian page supports
Alfred the Great is listed on Textopian as an essay by G.K. Chesterton, dated 1904 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: G.K. Chesterton
- Date: 1904 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Biography, Historical Analysis, Philosophical Reflection, Cultural Commentary, Literary Criticism
- Length: 1,568 words
- Structure: 1 section, 15 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Historical Biography — The book focuses on the life and legacy of King Alfred, exploring his historical significance and personal attributes.
- Historical Analysis — It provides an analysis of historical events and figures, discussing the impact of Alfred's reign on England.
- Philosophical Reflection — The text delves into philosophical musings on history, heroism, and the nature of truth and legend.
- Cultural Commentary — The book comments on English national identity and cultural values through the lens of Alfred's character and legacy.
Tags
historical fiction · biography · medieval history · English history · leadership · kingship · warfare · Christianity · philosophy · cultural identity · heroism · wisdom