Fostering and Political Alliances in King Athelstan's Court

This chapter explores the concept of fostering in ancient kingdoms and focuses on King Athelstan's role as a guardian of his younger half-brothers and other children in his court. It discusses the various noble children who were raised in his court, highlighting Athelstan's personal affection for them and his willingness to offer them military support. The chapter also reflects on the possibility of girls being present in Athelstan's court and concludes that he was a good father figure to the next generation of monarchs.