The King's Task by Rudyard Kipling
In a time when Rome's influence had waned and Britain was in turmoil, a Saxon king ruled over a stubborn and proud people. The Saxons, known for their fierce independence, were not easily subdued by force. They established their own laws and customs, reflecting their rugged lifestyle and connection to the land. However, their pride led to a series of military failures against a cunning enemy, resulting in shame and anger among the Saxons. After a particularly disastrous campaign, the Saxons convened in their council, the Witan, to address their grievances. They recognized that their defeat was not solely due to external enemies but also to their internal flaws—specifically, their pride and sloth. They had underestimated their foes and overestimated their own capabilities, leading to a lack of preparation and unity in battle. The king, Edward, was urged to guide his people out of this cycle of failure. The Saxons expressed a desire for change, acknowledging that they needed to confront their weaknesses and learn from their mistakes. They sought a leader who could inspire them to reclaim their strength and honor, emphasizing the importance of unity and diligence in their future endeavors. The narrative explores themes of leadership, accountability, and the struggle for identity in the face of adversity. The Saxons' journey reflects a broader commentary on the human condition, the necessity of growth through hardship, and the quest for redemption. The king's task is to teach his people the lessons of their past, to forge a path toward a more resilient and cohesive society.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1926 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Epic Poetry, Political Allegory · 1,237 words
First lines
After the sack of the City, when Rome was sunk to a name, In the years that the lights were darkened, or ever St. Wilfrid came, Low on the borders of Britain (the ancient poets sing) Between the Cliff and the Forest there ruled a Saxon King. Stubborn all were his people from cottar to overlord -- Not to be cowed by the cudgel, scarce to be schooled by the sword; Quick to turn at their pleasure, cruel to cross in their mood, And set on paths of their choosing as the hogs of Andred's Wood. Laws they made in the Witan -- the laws of flaying and fine -- Common, loppage and pannage, the theft and the track of kine -- Statutes of tun and market for the fish and the malt and the meal -- The tax on the Bramber packhorse and the tax on the Hastings keel. Over the graves of the Druids and under the wreck of Rome Rudely but surely they bedded the plinth of the days to come. Behind the feet of the Legions and before the Norseman's ire, Rudely but greatly begat they the framing of state and shire. Rudely but deeply they laboured, and their labour stands till now, If we trace on our ancient headlands the twist of their eight-ox plough. There came a king from Hamtun, by Bosenham he came. He filled Use with slaughter, and Lewes he gave to flame. He smote while they sat in the Witan -- sudden he smote and sore, That his fleet was gathered at Selsea ere they mustered at Cymen's Ore.
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The King's Task is listed on Textopian as an essay by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1926 CE.
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- Work type: Essay
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1926 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Epic Poetry, Political Allegory, Adventure, Drama
- Length: 1,237 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Historical Fiction — The poem is set in a historical context, depicting the Saxon era and the struggles of a king and his people.
- Epic Poetry — The narrative style and grand themes of battle, leadership, and societal values align with the characteristics of epic poetry.
- Political Allegory — The themes of governance, responsibility, and the relationship between a king and his subjects serve as an allegory for political dynamics.
- Adventure — The elements of conflict, battle, and the journey of the king and his people contribute to an adventurous narrative.
Tags
adventure · historical · fiction · royalty · leadership · duty · sacrifice · courage · loyalty · conflict · strategy · morality