Synopsis
Cnut's reign as King of England (1016-35) has not yet been adequately treated in the light of modern scholarship - the last biography of him was published in 1912 (L.M. Larson, "Cnut the Great"). Since that date there have been great advances in the application of archaeological, numismatic, literary and onomastic (name studies) evidence to historical studies. There has also been a firm realization that "national" histories must be placed in their European context. This scholarly volume adopts an interdisciplinary and intenational approach, to assess the figure of Cnut as ruler not only of England but also of Denmark and Norway. How did his experience and obligations as king of one country influence his actions as king of others? Were his policies consistent or purely pragmatic? What were the social effects of his rule? The studies in this collection serve to illuminate the various influences that operated on Cnut as king and also to explain some of the events of his life in a fresh way. It includes both studies of particular types of evidence (coins, runic inscriptions, skaldic verse (official verse), law-codes, names) and of political policies and events of his rule as overlord of different dominions. It will not only inform but also stimulate further study: the text of the "Translation of St Elfheah" is one which has not been available for study before. This volume should be useful for all students and scholars of the period.
