The Intervention of Our Lady in Chesterton's "The Ballad of the White Horse" Sara Aragona College

In The Ballad of the White Horse, an epic poem by author G.K.Chesterton, a fallen King Alfred fights the Danes in an attempt to preserve the last remnants of civilization in England. Initially, the future of Wessex men appears bleak, as Alfred is in utter despair and the pagan armies have threatened England with their swords and their dangerous ideologies. However, Alfred, his chiefs, and his armies are changed by the intervention of Mary through a twofold vision on the Isle of Athelney and the plains of Ethandune, the setting of their climactic battle. Our Lady’s message of Christian joy and courage inspires Alfred and his chiefs to continue their battle with the Danes against all odds, and her final appearance on the battlefield strengthens Alfred and his armies and leads them to victory.

Our Lady's appearance to Alfred in Athelney saves him from despair and reminds him of his need for reliance on God, and her message of Christian courage in the face of uncertainty strengthens his will to fight the Danes. Alfred bemoans the loss of his kingdom and the apparent fate of his subjects. Alone in Athelney and hiding from the enemy, he fears that he has been abandoned. He longs for comfort and reassurance, but only sees fit to...