The First King of England: Æthelstan and the birth of the kingdom

David Woodman, a Professor of History at Cambridge University, has written a detailed study of the life of Æthelstan, the grandson of King Alfred the Great and son of King Edward the Elder, who became the first king of all of England in 927.  

The author has studied the limited number of original sources covering this historical period including versions of the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, works of William of Malmesbury and Æthelstan's surviving diplomas (official documents recording decisions from royal meetings, particularly detailing grants made by the king and his dealings with the church) along with an extensive list of historical works about this time in England's history in order to compile his study about the life of Æthelstan.

The book looks at the history of England at the time of Æthelstan's grandfather and father when the country was divided initially into seven kingdoms and later four before becoming a united country. The book then examines the life of Æthelstan and how he endeavoured to keep the country as one. Chapters provide information about Æthelstan's interest in learning as well as supporting religious establishments in the country. As well as ruling England Æthelstan worked with leaders of parts of Wales and also Scotland. In at the Battle of Brunanburh in 937 Æthelstan's army had a decisive victory resulting in him ruling much of Britain, not just England. Æthelstan was well know as a leader throughout Europe. Æthelstan ruled England from 924 until 939.

The First King of England is a comprehensive work about the life of an important but not well-known king. The author suggests that he would have had a more prominent reputation if he had had a biographer recording his story as his grandfather, Alfred the Great, had done. Following the death of Æthelstan there was unrest again in parts of England, especially in the north with Vikings once again asserting themselves. But the creation of the country of England that evolved during the rule of Æthelstan became the foundation of England today.

At the end  of the book is a glossary of technical terms, list of historical figures appearing in the book, chronology of main events, two appendices, notes, bibliography and index.