Asser and the ASC - Sources

What was the name of Alfred's biographer?

What is a chronicle?

• A factual written account of important historical events in the order of their occurrence.
• A written life of a saint.
• A collection of factual texts produced on a regular basis.
• A text written to systematically lay out an argument on an issue.

When, approximately, was the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle first produced?

• 892
• 894
• 878
• 865

What was probably the purpose of the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle? Select all that apply.

• To boost Anglo-Saxon morale in the face of Viking attacks.
• To unite the Anglo-Saxon peoples into one - the 'English'.
• To persuade the Welsh to submit to Alfred's kingship.
• To support Alfred's claim to the throne against his brother.

MS A is the earliest version of the Chronicle still surviving. Where was this produced?

• Winchester, Wessex
• Abingdon, Mercia
• Wearmouth, Northumbria
• Peterborough, Mercia

What does 'corroborate' mean?

• 'Back up'; to support or confirm something else.
• Dispute; to challenge or undermine something else.
• To add detail to an argument.
• An early medieval form of execution.

Where did Asser come from?

• Dyfed, Wales
• Gwynedd, Wales
• York, Northumbria
• Brycheinog, Wales

What is one STRENGTH of Asser's Life of King Alfred, when used as a primary source?

• Asser knew Alfred very well; he was present at his court for a number of years.
• It is extremely well-preserved.
• It is highly accurate as its contents were peer-reviewed by fellow historians at the time.
• Asser was a foreigner and therefore had no relationship with Alfred, and was impartial.

Where did Alfred make Asser bishop of in 892, as a reward for his service?

• Sherborne
• London
• Worcester
• Exeter

Roughly when was the Life of King Alfred completed?

• 893
• 865
• 894
• 871