The Fortress Kingdom - The Wars of Aethelflaed and Edward the Elder, 899–927
written by Paul Hill and published by Pen & Sword Books - £25 - Hardback -
Pages 248
In this the second part of his four-volume military and political history of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom, Paul Hill follows the careers of Æthelflæd, Alfred the Great’s eldest daughter, and Edward the Elder, Alfred’s eldest son, as they campaigned to expand their rule after Alfred’s death. They faced, as Alfred had done, the full force of Danish hostility during the early years of the tenth century, a period of unrelenting turbulence and open warfare. But through their military strength, in particular their strategy of fortress building, they retained their hold on the kingdom and conquered lands which had been under Danish lords for generations.
Æthelflæd’s forces captured Derby and Leicester by both force and diplomacy. Edward’s power was always immense. How each of them used forts (burhs) to hold territory, is explored. Fortifications across central England became key. These included Bridgnorth, Tamworth, Stafford, Warwick, Chirbury and Runcorn (Æthelflæd) and also Hertford, Witham, Buckingham, Bedford and Maldon (Edward), to name a few.
Paul Hill’s absorbing narrative incorporates the latest theories and evidence for the military organization and capabilities of the Anglo-Saxons and their Danish adversaries. His book gives the reader a detailed and dramatic insight into a very sophisticated Anglo-Saxon kingdom.
This is an incredibly well written and researched book about early British history involving
Aethelflaed, Alfred the Great’s daugther & Edward the Elder. This is the time around
Aethelflaed’s emergence and chance to expand the kingdom, during a period in which
she had to contend with the Saxon’s being present. The book looks at her dominance
politically and militarily, and I enjoyed learning about how influence played a big part
with how the emergence of wanting a strategic presence in various towns around
England to gain a presence and influence with the local population through the
building of burghs. This book is the second part of 4 books and this book has been
a brilliant read and has been thoroughly enjoyable and learn from. Most certainly
recommended.
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