Asser Flashcards
Facts about Asser
What did Asser write and when?
Life of King Alfred in 893
What was significant about the ‘Life of King Alfred’?
It was the first known biography of an English King and a primary source with a comprehensive narrative based account of war and peace
What was the relationship between Asser and Alfred?
Asser knew Alfred personally and met with him often, and had admiration for him, likely prompting him to write the book
What was the purpose of the ‘Life of King Alfred’?
Perhaps to make a possible alliance with Wales and make Wessex look good for alliances, as there was a renewed threat from the Vikings.
Who was Asser competing with, and why?
He was competing with other scholars from Mercia, due to rivalry between Kingdoms, but overall trying to make scholars look good to continue patronage.
What was Asser’s role as an ambassador?
He was an ambassador for the English and the Welsh.
What was Asser’s special position within the Church?
He was made the Bishop of Sherborne in 892
Which monasteries did Asser have jurisdiction over?
Bamwell and Crogress.
What was Asser’s work based off?
The Anglo Saxon Chronicle
Why is Asser’s work considered unoriginal?
It was greatly influenced by Grimbald and Einhard’s Life of Charlemagne - perhaps just copying the achievements of famous and
successful continental Kings
