Chronicles (1 of 6): The Historie of England (8 of 8): The Eight Booke of the Historie of England
1577
Chronicles (1 of 6): The Historie of England (8 of 8): The Eight Booke of the Historie of England
1577
History - British, History - Medieval/Middle Ages
The Eight Booke of the Historie of England, written by Raphael Holinshed and first published in 1577, provides a detailed historical account of England during the reign of King Edward the Confessor (1042-1066) and the events leading to the Norman Conquest. It explores the political and social dynamics of the time, focusing on key figures such as Edward, his mother Queen Emma, and Earl Goodwine, while delving into themes of ambition, betrayal, and power struggles. Holinshed's work is notable for its influence on later literature, including the plays of William Shakespeare, and serves as a significant source for understanding early English history.
About Chronicles (1 of 6): The Historie of England (8 of 8): The Eight Booke of the Historie of England
Chapter Summaries
- 1
- Edward the Confessor is chosen king after Hardiknought's death, aided by Earl Goodwine's political maneuvering. The Danes are expelled, and Edward marries Goodwine's daughter but never consummates the marriage.
- 2
- Edward brings Norman advisors, causing tension with English nobles. A conflict in Canterbury leads to Goodwine's refusal to punish the citizens, resulting in his temporary exile with his sons.
- 3
- Goodwine and his sons return from exile, raiding the coasts. After naval confrontations and negotiations, they are restored to favor, with pledges given to William of Normandy.
Key Themes
- Divine Providence and Judgment
- The chronicle repeatedly emphasizes God's role in determining the fate of kingdoms and rulers. Edward's prophetic vision and the various 'signs' suggest divine intervention in English affairs.
- Oath-Breaking and Honor
- Harold's broken oath to William serves as a central moral issue, with the text suggesting that perjury brings divine punishment and political downfall.
- Political Ambition vs. Piety
- The contrast between Edward's saintly nature and the worldly ambitions of nobles like Goodwine and Harold illustrates the tension between spiritual and temporal power.
Characters
- Edward the Confessor(protagonist)
- Third king Edward of England, chosen by general consent after Hardiknought's death. A meek and simple ruler, more suited to religious life than governance, known for his piety and the gift of healing.
- Earl Goodwine(major)
- Powerful Earl of Kent, ambitious and politically cunning. Helped Edward gain the throne to maintain his own influence, later banished but restored to favor.
- Harold Godwinson(major)
- Earl Goodwine's son who became the last Anglo-Saxon king. Valiant warrior but ambitious, died at the Battle of Hastings after breaking his oath to William of Normandy.
- William of Normandy (William the Conqueror)(major)
- Duke of Normandy who claimed the English throne through kinship to Edward and Harold's oath. Successfully conquered England at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
- Queen Emma(major)
- Mother of Edward the Confessor, previously married to both Ethelred and Canute. Accused of adultery and harsh treatment, later cleared through trial by ordeal.
- Tostie(major)
- Harold's brother, Earl of Northumberland known for extreme cruelty. Banished by the Northumbrians, allied with Harald Hardrada against his own brother.
