The House of Godwin - by Michael John Key (Hardcover)

About the Book

The most powerful dynasty behind the throne of Anglo-Saxon England, shedding new light on events such as the Battle of Hastings.

Book Synopsis

Godwin and his family dominated English politics for almost half a century, establishing themselves as the most influential and powerful dynasty in Anglo-Saxon England. At the height of its power, it took a matter of weeks for the dynasty to fall. Earl Godwin established himself as Cnut's most senior advisor and continued that role to become even more influential during the reign of Edward the Confessor, seeing his daughter Edith become queen and his two eldest sons, Swegn and Harold, given earldoms. After Godwin's death four of his sons held earldoms, and Harold was to emerge as Edward the Confessor's senior earl and eventually become king of England. This book considers the key events throughout this period, including Godwin's emergence, the succession dispute after Cnut's death, the rise to prominence of his eldest children, the family's exile and dramatic return, the quarrel between Harold and Tostig, and the Norse and Norman invasions. Specific chapters are devoted to Godwin's involvement in the Anglo-Danish succession, the family's exiling, Harold's trip to Normandy, William of Normandy's claims to the English throne, re-assessments of the accepted Norman landing site and traditional site of the battle of Hastings, and the fate of the remaining Godwinsons post-1066.

Review Quotes

'Fascinating book'--History of War Magazine, May 2022

'It all makes for fascinating reading.'--The Armourer Magazine, June 2022

'Solid yet complex introduction to the Godwinsons and their legacy. Suppose you want to learn more about Anglo-Saxon England and one of the most influential families of that period in history. In that case, I recommend you read.'--Adventures of a Tudor Nerd (5/25/2022 12:00:00 AM)

About the Author

Michael John Key completed his History Higher Class Honours Degree after taking early retirement. He has since found time to follow his lifelong interest in history, particularly researching the Anglo-Saxon period. This book on the House of Godwin is his second work, following on from his work on Edward the Elder which was published in 2019. He was born in Lancashire but now lives in Hampshire.