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How did one biography shape the legend of Alfred the Great?

Asser wrote a biography of Alfred, the ninth-century king of Wessex, that helped shape the ruler's reputation. Its accounts of adversity and religious explanations invite readers to admire him. Explore what this near-contemporary source reveals, and which claims require evidence beyond the biographer's portrayal.

3–7 min

Questions you could explore

  • Which words invite admiration?
  • What other evidence would you want before accepting the account’s explanation of success?

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5–7 min

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