The scene was set: it is Spring 878 and Guthrum the Dane is leading a great army towards Winchester. The inhabitants of Winchester are fearful, uncertain as to whether their king, Alfred, will be able to defend them…
A packed house at The Arc, Winchester on 20th June enjoyed an interactive evening exploring life in Winchester in the late ninth century learning how this period has shaped England and the English language today and why 878AD.
Infact, as the eager audience discovered, events turned in Alfred’s favour at the ensuing Battle of Eddington, cementing both his reputation and a key date in our local history.
The event brought together experts from the University of Winchester, Hampshire Cultural Trust, The English Project and Winchester’s latest visitor attraction, 875AD. Those present enjoyed the opportunity to hear from and to question some of the key designers of the 875AD experience: Prof Ryan Lavelle, Prof Bill Lucas, Prof Christopher Mulvey and Jaane Rowehl.
