Alfred the Great: The Accurate Norse Seaman and Villain of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

Introduction to the Viking Era

The Norse seamen across the shore are accurately depicted in the trailer for Assassin's Creed Valhalla. Albeit, when Alfred talks about them, he portrays a people often shrouded in mystery due to the lack of information from their own accounts.[1] Historically, the Vikings are often remembered as raiders and conquerors, but their true nature is far more complex.

The Negative Perception of the Vikings

The reputation of the Vikings has predominantly been negative, with reports of bloodthirsty savages and looters. However, these portrayals are based on the experiences of the peoples they encountered, primarily in Northern and Eastern England during the 9th century. The natives predominantly experienced their harsher side due to the raids carried out by the Vikings.

Alfred the Great: The Iconic Saxon King

Alfred the Great is famously known as the great vanquisher of the Vikings, who was the king of Wessex, the last of the free Saxon kingdoms. He wasn't exactly known for his gentle approach towards the Vikings. His famous epithet can be attributed to the significant reforms he implemented in his military and territorial organization.

Reforming Wessex: The Legacy of Alfred

Alfred's reorganization of Wessex's forces, his victory over Norse raiders, and his comprehensive redrawing of his realm were all crucial aspects of his legacy. According to historical records, his reforms were pivotal in transforming Wessex into a formidable kingdom. However, as with many historical figures, there's a possibility that some aspects of his reforms might have been exaggerated for the sake of narrative.

The Complexity of Alfred's Reforms

The Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, including Wessex, were loosely organized, which made them vulnerable to invasions. The decentralized nature of the fyrd system made a quick response to raiders by the state challenging.[2] Moreover, Alfred implemented new taxation systems to pay for his war efforts, as residing fortified towns were not cheap. Therefore, the process of centralizing a confederacy and implementing new financial strategies involved some level of exaggeration for political and narrative purposes.

The Legacy of Alfred the Great

Alfred's legacy is often colored by his accomplishments in uniting Wessex with Angles and Welsh. However, as a character in Assassin's Creed Valhalla, the perspective has shifted. Alfred is portrayed as the main villain based on his efforts to expel the Vikings, who were viewed as ruthless and barbaric during his time. It is this legacy that defines his place in the narrative of the game.

The Diplomatic and Strategical Prodigy

Beyond his military exploits, Alfred was also a strategic figure who appreciated interaction with other nations. He corresponded with Carolingian kings in Italy and the Pope of Rome to align his military reforms with those of the broader Christian world. Such extensive diplomatic contacts suggest that Alfred was a foreign policy mastermind and a key figure in the formation of alliances.

The Character Eivor – A Viking Legends

For the main character, Eivor, of Assassin's Creed Valhalla, it is essential to navigate a world where Alfred’s actions are seen through the lens of a powerful and feared adversary. Eivor finds himself entangled in a narrative where the depiction of Vikings is based on the perceptions of those they encountered, rather than their own accounts. This creates a complex and nuanced portrayal of both historical figures and the societies they interacted with.

Conclusion

Understanding Alfred the Great requires a balanced view – acknowledging his military successes and the reshaping of Wessex, while also recognizing the darker impulses that drove his actions against the Vikings. Whether he is seen as a hero or villain, his role in the Viking era and the narrative of Assassin's Creed Valhalla contribute to a rich and nuanced exploration of the medieval period.

[1] Modern historical research has begun to reinterpret the Viking age, shedding light on their cultural practices and societal norms. [2]