Primary sourceDocumentc. 890 (Common Stock)
Anglo-Saxon Chronicle
c. 890 (Common Stock)
A set of Old English year-by-year annals, first compiled around Alfred's court, recording his wars with the Vikings and his reign.
Compiled in Alfred's own circle, the Chronicle records and promotes his wars, rule and dynasty.
About this source
What it is
The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle is a collection of annals in Old English tracing the history of the Anglo-Saxons. Its earliest version, known as the Common Stock, was put together around 890 in Wessex, during the reign of Alfred the Great, drawing on older sources. Copies were later sent to monasteries and continued independently; nine manuscripts survive, including the one shown here, from Peterborough Abbey.
Why it matters
The Chronicle is one of the most important sources for early English history, recording events such as Alfred's wars with Viking invaders, his flight to Athelney and his victory at Edington. Historians note that the Common Stock systematically promotes Alfred's dynasty, so while it preserves unique information, it also reflects how Alfred's circle wanted his reign to be remembered.
Look closer
- Why might a king's own court want a written history of his reign?
- What does it mean for historians that the Chronicle may present a one-sided view of events?
- How can comparing different copies of the Chronicle help us spot bias?
This document is part of the curated material that grounds the AI version of Alfred the Great and Aethelstan on Humy.ai — when students ask about related events, the AI can quote it and cite it.
More Alfred the Great sources
Meet the AI Alfred the Great →
Ready when you are
Start chatting with Alfred the Great now.
20 messages free · No credit card · Available in 50+ languages.