What are some challenges faced b a king/leader in Anglo-Saxon society?

Which kings/leaders are you referring to?

According to the movies, stay alive. But looking at the reigns of the kings, a few were deposed or killed soon after assuming the crown, but many ruled decades. So I am not so keen on what the movies present.

I suspect since these were pagan societies, and the king was really a king-priest (of divine origin), was just ruling in the face of everyday problems: food, shelter, climate.

In Anglo-Saxon society, kings or leaders faced several challenges. Some of these challenges included:

1. Maintaining Stability: One of the primary challenges faced by kings in Anglo-Saxon society was to maintain the stability of their kingdom. This involved managing internal conflicts and ensuring a fair distribution of power among nobles and regional leaders.

2. Defending the Kingdom: Kings had the responsibility of defending their kingdom against external threats, such as Viking invasions. This required building and maintaining strong armies and fortifications to protect the borders of the kingdom.

3. Balancing Power: Kings had to navigate the complex web of relationships and alliances with noble families and influential individuals. It was crucial for them to balance power and keep various factions satisfied to prevent internal conflicts.

4. Enforcing Law and Order: Anglo-Saxon kings had to establish and maintain a system of law and order. This involved appointing judges and ensuring justice was served. The king was also responsible for resolving disputes and punishing criminals.

5. Managing Finances: Kings had to oversee the financial aspects of their kingdom. This included collecting taxes, managing the treasury, and allocating resources for various purposes such as infrastructure development, military expenses, and patronage of the church.

To understand more about the challenges faced by kings in Anglo-Saxon society, it is useful to study historical documents, texts, and accounts from that period. Reading books and articles focused on Anglo-Saxon history, such as the works of Bede and the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, can provide valuable insights into the intricacies of leadership in that era.