Publisher's Synopsis
The Ballad of the White Horse by G. K. Chesterton
Chesterton begins his work with a note (in prose) stating that the poem is not historical. He says he chose to place the site of the Battle of Ethandune in the White Horse Valley, despite the lack of concrete evidence for this placement (many researchers now believe it was likely fought in Edington, Wiltshire). He says he chose to include legends about Alfred, even though they are historically unlikely.
Dedication The poem begins with a verse dedication to Chesterton's wife. He begins by commenting on Alfred and his legacy. Chesterton asks his wife to remember their travels together to research the poem and ends with a line that appears to be personally intended for him.
