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Eirik Bloodaxe
The first biography ever written about the legendary Viking king, Eirik Bloodaxe: Heir to the throne of Norway, murderer and warrior king who established reigns of power both in Norway and England. Written by one of the world's foremost experts on the Viking Age, Gareth Williams, curator of medieval coinage at the British Museum in London, this is a must read for every viking enthusiast!
Based on his research into all available sources, Williams gives us a fascinating look at the man who above all else embodies the characteristics of the Viking warrior, as well as the relations and power struggles between the Norwegian and Anglo-Saxon dynasties in the 10th Century.
Based on his research into all available sources, Williams gives us a fascinating look at the man who above all else embodies the characteristics of the Viking warrior, as well as the relations and power struggles between the Norwegian and Anglo-Saxon dynasties in the 10th Century.
131 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2010
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March 21, 2012
A very delightful and interesting historical attempt to create a biography for the elusive yet dramatic character of Eirik Bloodaxe, former King of Jorvik (aka York). Dr Gareth Williams examines the life and times of Eirik's father Harald Finehair who founded Norway and apparently had many sons by many wives, Eirik being one of them. It follows Eirik's selection as heir to the throne, his unforunate brutal meetings with several of his 'brothers', fleeing from Norway to find mercy under the reign of Athelstand who fostered his half-brother Hakon the Good who then claimed the Norwegian throne. It is also reveals an intriguing relationship between Eirik's wife Gunhildr and witchcraft and his possible adventures abroad both before coming to England and afterwards.
Displaying 1 of 1 review