The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle

Compiled at the behest of King Alfred the Great around 890 AD, this ancient record offers a window into the early English kingdom. Over the centuries successive anonymous scribes added entries, tracking battles, royal successions, natural events, and everyday life. The language evolves from Old English in its earliest sections to a Middle English tone in later notes, reflecting the shifting voice of a nation in formation.

The edition you’ll hear draws from all nine surviving manuscript versions, weaving together their differing readings into a single, readable translation. While the original footnotes belong to a 19th‑century scholar and may feel dated, they still provide useful clues for curious listeners. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply enjoy a vivid portrait of medieval England, this collection brings the Chronicle’s early centuries to life, inviting you to explore the foundations of the land that would become modern Britain.