Anglo-Saxon England

Three Royal Brothers

Jan 4, 2023

This podcast explores the complex relationship between four royal brothers in early Anglo-Saxon England. It delves into the reigns of Æthelwulf's three older sons, highlighting key factors such as the transition from raiding to conquest by the Scandinavians and the alliance with Mercia. The podcast discusses the controversial marriage of Æthelbald, the unity of Wessex and Kent under Athelbert, and the challenges faced by Wessex due to the Great Heathen Army. It emphasizes the dire situation of Wessex and England and the important role of Alfred in protecting the kingdom.

29:39

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Quick takeaways

The reign of Æthelbald saw the transition from Scandinavian raiding to Scandinavian conquest in Wessex.

Æthelbert's rule was characterized by good relations among his siblings and an alliance with Mercia, leading to shared coinage and economic cooperation.

Deep dives

Athelbold's reign and his marriage to Judith

Athelbold succeeded Athelwolf as king of Wessex in 858. In an effort to secure his prestige, Athelbold married his father's widow, Judith, a daughter-in-law to Emperor Charles the Bald. While historical accounts differ on how this marriage was portrayed, it is suggested that it was not seen as particularly dishonorable. Athelbold's reign was brief, and little is known about his rule.

Introduction

3min

The Reign of Athelbold and his Controversial Marriage

6min

Views on Divine Rites of Kings and Women in History

2min

The Reign of Athlebert and the Unity of Wessex and Kent

2min

Athlebert's Reign and Relations with Siblings

6min

The Reign of Ethel Red and the Great Heathen Army

8min

The Dire Situation of Wessex and England

3min

Æthelwulf’s will attests to his desire that upon his death Wessex would pass into the hands of his sons. This desire was fulfilled when his eldest surviving son Æthelbald became king following his father’s death in 858. The years that passed between this accession and the rise of the youngest son, Alfred, to the throne in 871 would see a complex detente form between the four brothers as Wessex rapidly passed from one to another. Histories of Wessex tend to overlook the years between Æthelwulf and Alfred, preferring to focus instead of Alfred, his father, and his grandfather to give the sense of a simple progression of a united Wessex developing into a united kingdom of England. However the reigns of Alfred’s three older brothers deserve to be discussed in detail since it is under them that several key factors in Alfred’s reign fully emerge into West Saxon history such as the transition from Scandinavian raiding into Scandinavian conquest and the alliance with Mercia, both of which would bear fruit in Alfred’s reign and shape the earliest form of the kingdom of England.

Credits –

Music: 'Wælheall' by Hrōðmund Wōdening

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQfdqIyqJ4g&list=LL&index=5&ab_channel=Hr%C5%8D%C3%B0mundW%C5%8Ddening

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