Aside from repelling the Danes, Alfred was known for trying to widen literacy in, and within, his Kingdom. According to a website called Britannica.com, the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle began during his reign, circa 890.
Unknown about Alfred, was his earlier interests in scholarly activity. Being that he was 5th in line to power (with 4 older brothers), Alfred was believed to have said he would not desire power. His mother was an influence on him, she aroused an interest in English poetry, and from a young age he had an interest in Latin learning (possibly arising from his visits to Rome in 853 and 855) (Britannica.com). The irony is that Alfred would not acquire much of the information and knowledge he sought, until later in his life. He did, however, promote literacy throughout his Kingdom, eventually trying to transcribe parts of the Bible into English.
Alfred could seem great in many ways, possibly due-to his humbleness and willingness to learn. A promotion of knowledge is always a sure-fire way to assure that the scholars of the future see you as great. What historian wouldn’t think he was great? He left a fair amount of info to research, which is any scholar’s dream; no matter what century we are talking about.
Source: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Alfred-king-of-Wessex
Alfred The Great 