
The novel revolves around the theme of ambition, focusing on the character of Harold Godwinson, who rises to become the King of England. The story explores his struggles and conflicts with other powerful nobles, including William, Duke of Normandy, who also has ambitions to claim the English throne. Throughout the book, Harold's character is portrayed as a complex mix of virtues and flaws, driven by his desire for power and recognition.
By Edward Bulwer-lytton · First published 1848 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Political · 7 chapters · 19,492 words
There was great rejoicing in England. King Edward had been induced to send Alred the prelate [139] to the court of the German Emperor, for his kinsman and namesake, Edward Atheling, the son of the great Ironsides. In his childhood, this Prince, with his brother Edmund, had been committed by Canute to the charge of his vassal, the King of Sweden; and it has been said (though without sufficient authority), that Canute's design was, that they should be secretly made away with. The King of Sweden, however, forwarded the children to the court of Hungary; they were there honourably reared and received. Edmund died young, without issue. Edward married a daughter of the German Emperor, and during the commotions in England, and the successive reigns of Harold Harefoot, Hardicanute, and the Confessor, had remained forgotten in his exile, until now suddenly recalled to England as the heir presumptive of his childless namesake.
Harold, the Last of the Saxon Kings Book VI: Ambition is listed on Textopian as a novel by Edward Bulwer-lytton, dated 1848 CE.
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Historical Fiction · Medieval Period · Saxon Kingdom · British History · Monarchy · Power Struggle · Ambition · Leadership · Warfare · Battle Scenes · Political Intrigue · Royal Court