Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Great Beards of History: Alfred the Great


Alfred the Great, King of Wessex, Anglo-Saxon defender, leader in education and culture, and bearer of a mighty beard.

King Alfred is one of England's most beloved heroes, standing among King Arthur and Richard the Lionheart. He staved off the Vikings from overtaking his land, through much struggle and ingenuity. A well learned man himself, he initiated a renaissance of education and culture during his days of peace. The English Navy had its beginnings with King Alfred. Alfred the Great was a man of might, courage, wisdom, and intellect. He wielded his sword as well as his mind with a strong arm.

It is on this basis, therefore, that we look to Alfred as a model of a responsible and worthy bearer of the beard. Notice in the 19th century portrait below the full and forked style.


Behold, King Alfred the Great. Behold, a spectacular beard.