The court of Alfred the Great was Christian, deferring to
the Pope in Rome for religious guidance. King Alfred rigorously enforced the
Church’s mandates from fasting during Lent to Almsgiving throughout the year, and
not just at Christmastime.
There was merrymaking and feasting, but it was also a solemn
occasion; prayer and attending Mass was foremost since the holiday celebrates
the birth of Christ.
During the twelve days of Christmas, the Christian community
prayed at daily Mass, attended vigils, and participated in almsgiving, donating
to the poor and the religious communities.
One must not forget the food. Meats included beef, pork,
turkey, and boar. Available vegetables were carrots, onions, parsnips, and
cabbage. Bread warmed on the hearth, and everything was washed down with wine,
mead, and ale. Yes, there was always room for dessert with a variety of tasty
pies or fruit, such as apples, plums, and cherries. And, like today, a great
chef was worth their weight in gold.
Minstrels would play festive tunes, and guests would dance; gift-giving
was also practiced.
Over the centuries, customs have come and gone, but the main
reason for the celebration remains, celebrating the birth of Christ.
The Briton and the Dane series transports the reader to ninth-century
Anglo-Saxon England, a tumultuous period in history when the feared Vikings
ravaged all of Christendom. Click HERE to learn more.
About the Author
Mary Ann Bernal
Mary Ann Bernal
attended Mercy College, Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she received a degree in
Business Administration. Her literary aspirations were ultimately realized when
the first book of The Briton and the Dane novels was published in 2009. In
addition to writing historical fiction, Mary Ann has also authored a collection
of contemporary short stories in the Scribbler Tales series and a science
fiction/fantasy novel entitled Planetary Wars Rise of an Empire. Her recent work
includes Crusader’s Path, a redemption story set against the backdrop of the
First Crusade, and Forgiving Nero, a novel of Ancient Rome.
Since Operation
Desert Storm, Mary Ann has been a passionate supporter of the United States
military, having been involved with letter-writing campaigns and other support
programs. She appeared on The Morning Blend television show hosted by KMTV, the
CBS television affiliate in Omaha, and was interviewed by the Omaha
World-Herald for her volunteer work. She has been a featured author on various
reader blogs and promotional sites.
Mary Ann
currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska.
Connect with Mary Ann
Website Publisher Amazon Author Page BookBub Instagram Linked-in Blog Pinterest
