King Alfred and the Anglo Saxons

King Alfred and the Anglo Saxons is a remarkable historical documentary series produced by BBC in 2013. Told in three engaging parts, the series brings to life the substantial and compelling tale of King Alfred the Great and his descendants, while also unraveling the significant chapters of Anglo-Saxon history. This is achieved through a combination of dramatic reenactments, scholarly insights, and expert comments, providing both entertainment and education.

Each of the three episodes is centred around a significant individual from the timeline of the Anglo-Saxons, Examining not only their life but also the wider historical impacts they made. King Alfred the Great, his daughter Aethelflaed, Lady of the Mercians, and his grandson Athelstan all come under the lens, allowing viewers to understand the political, social, and personal decisions that have undeniably shaped British history.

The first episode delves into the captivating life of King Alfred the Great, the only English monarch who has the title 'the Great'. His influence, decisions, and resistance to 'The Great Heathen Army' of the Viking invasion are outlined with vivid and gripping detail. This part elucidates how he laid down the foundation for the birth of England (Englaland), demonstrating Alfred's striking balance between statesmanship and military prowess.

In the second part of the series, viewers are given a long-overdue introduction to Aethelflaed, Alfred's daughter. Her significant contributions to defending and expanding Mercia have often been overlooked by mainstream historical narratives. This episode hails her as one of the greatest warrior queens in history and elucidates how Aethelflaed played a crucial role against Viking aggression and helped shape the destiny of England.

The final episode focuses on Athelstan, the grandson of Alfred the Great. He is presented as a unifying force, the first king of a united England, who ruled in a golden age of culture, law, and learning, setting the groundwork for the England we know today.

Presenting this comprehensive narrative is Michael Wood, an eminent historian who brings immense knowledge and warmth to the series. His passion and understanding of the subject matter is infectious, bringing to life the angst, struggles, triumphs, and eventual legacy of these significant historical figures. Wood's presentation style brings a deeply personal touch to the series.

Another commendable aspect of the series is its intelligent use of locations. From the rolling fields of Wessex to the historical depths of Winchester, the series takes its viewers on a journey through landscapes that have borne witness to the unfolding saga of the Anglo Saxons. It embeds the historical narrative into the geographical fabric of the land, showcasing how the specific topography influenced strategic decisions.

The series benefits immensely from the rich academic insights of various experts. These experts provide additional context and depth to the discussion, supporting the historical portrayals with evidence from archaeology, genealogical studies, ancient records, and folklore. This results in a comprehensive and multi-perspective exploration of the Anglo Saxon period.

Going beyond the political narrative, the series also explores the cultural aspects of the time. It reviews how the English language was shaped during this era and the influence it still has on the language spoken today. It touches upon the significant advancements in law, governance, art, and spirituality seen during this period, forming connections between the past and the modern world.

King Alfred and the Anglo-Saxons is more than just a history lesson: it's an experience. It paints a vivid picture of a bygone era, filled with bravery, intellect, innovation, and tenacity. It brings to life legendary characters who have indelibly etched themselves into the history of Britain and the world. It offers each viewer a chance to travel back in time and witness how the collective efforts of Alfred the Great, Aethelflaed, and Athelstan shaped the destiny of a nation, leaving legacies that persist to this day. Without a doubt, this series is a must-watch for any history enthusiast. The endearing storytelling and masterful presentation ensure that it's just as enjoyable for the casual viewer.