The Political Thought of King Alfred the Great (Cambridge Studies in Medieval Life and Thought: Fourth Series, Series Number 67) - Hardcover

Pratt, David

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521803500 ISBN 13: 9780521803502

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2007

Synopsis

This book is a comprehensive study of political thought at the court of King Alfred the Great (871-99). It explains the extraordinary burst of royal learned activity focused on inventive translations from Latin into Old English attributed to Alfred's own authorship. A full exploration of context establishes these texts as part of a single discourse which placed Alfred himself at the heart of all rightful power and authority. A major theme is the relevance of Frankish and other European experiences, as sources of expertise and shared concerns, and for important contrasts with Alfredian thought and behaviour. Part I assesses Alfred's rule against West Saxon structures, showing the centrality of the royal household in the operation of power. Part II offers an intimate analysis of the royal texts, developing far-reaching implications for Alfredian kingship, communication and court culture. Comparative in approach, the book places Alfred's reign at the forefront of wider European trends in aristocratic life.

About this title

Book Description:

Explores five learned translations generally accepted as being the work of one of the key figures in British history, Alfred the Great. Its comprehensive analysis of the texts, placing them in their historical context, will appeal to Anglo-Saxon historians and to students of Carolingian renaissance and court culture.

About the Author:

Dr David Pratt is Fellow and Director of Studies in History at Downing College, Cambridge.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2007
• ISBN 10: 0521803500
• ISBN 13: 9780521803502
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 436