From reading to Reading

SHANTHI SIVARAMAN

One of the greatest kings who ruled England in its early years was King Alfred. His father King Ethelwolf was also reputed to be a good ruler. Alfred, even as a boy, was bright and thoughtful. He longed for books which were a rarity in those days. Printing presses did not exist and books were written and illustrated by hand. His stepmother, Judith, used to read aloud for all the children of the household and promised to give the book to the boy who should first learn to read. While his younger brothers did not care, Alfred learned to read and won the prize.

Alfred, when he grew up proved his prowess in war also. England was attacked by the Danes who came from the north and there were constant battles between the English and the Danes. Alfred fought bravely and defeated the Danes in a battle at Reading. Thus the boy who was fond of reading also won a victory at Reading.

Later on when Alfred became king after his brother's death, the battle with the Danes continued and Alfred had a tough time. He had to move from place to place to fight the Danes who had spread all over the country. There was a time when he had to go into hiding.. He lived with a cowherd and his wife. Not realising that it was the king who was staying with them she asked him to take care of the cakes in the oven.

Alfred, preoccupied with thoughts of the war, forgot and the cakes were badly burnt. He was given a severe scolding by the cowherd's wife.

He was kind to a beggar who came begging to the camp where he stayed. He gave away half a cake altough there was only one with him. He had faith in God and in himself and he knew that the difficulties he faced would pass. A thirst for knowledge, courage, patience and faith in himself and God, were the characteristics which gave this king the name "Alfred the Great".

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