Ep 2. Awesome Alfred the Great

In season 6 episode 2 of Horrible Histories titled "Awesome Alfred the Great," we are taken on a journey through time to learn about one of England's most revered kings. Alfred the Great was a warrior king who fought against Viking invaders and played a pivotal role in shaping the country we know today.

The episode is hosted by a group of young actors who use music, skits, and humor to make history come alive. They take the audience on a journey through Alfred's life, from his early days as a young prince to his time as the king of Wessex.

We learn about Alfred's struggles as a young boy when his father, King Aethelwulf, died and his older brothers took the throne. They constantly underestimated Alfred and saw him as weak and unfit to rule. However, when his brothers died, Alfred was thrust into the spotlight and forced to prove himself as a leader. He did just that, and the people of Wessex grew to love and respect him.

The episode also delves into Alfred's battles against the Vikings, who constantly raided the shores of England. The young actors portray Vikings with exaggerated accents and characteristics, making us laugh while still learning about the brutality of the raids. Alfred is shown to be a cunning and strategic leader who used his knowledge of the land to outmaneuver the Vikings. He also established a system of forts and watchtowers to keep his kingdom safe from future attacks.

Despite his military successes, Alfred is most remembered for his efforts to educate his people. He realized that many of his subjects were illiterate, and he strongly believed that education was important for a thriving society. He even translated books from Latin into English so that more people could benefit from them.

The episode also explores Alfred's personal life, including his relationship with his wife, Ealhswith. They had a happy marriage and several children, but her position as a queen was not without challenges. Women of the time had very little power, and she had to navigate the politics of the court while still supporting her husband.

Throughout the episode, we are reminded that Alfred's legacy lives on today. His efforts to promote education and unify the country helped pave the way for England to become the powerful nation it is today. The young actors also mention that Alfred's leadership qualities are still studied by modern-day politicians and military leaders.

The episode ends with a catchy song about Alfred's life, complete with humorous lyrics and a dance routine. It's a fun way to wrap up the episode, and it reinforces the idea that history can be entertaining and educational at the same time.

Overall, "Awesome Alfred the Great" is an engaging and informative episode of Horrible Histories. The young actors do a great job of bringing history to life, and the humor and music make it fun to watch. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for an entertaining way to learn, this episode is definitely worth checking out.