Somehow it seemed fitting that the novel should close on the two characters that seemed central to the story; Coenred and Mildryth. He had begun the tale as a seasoned warrior, a man dedicated to his calling and not interested in being a husband to any woman, but his mind had begun turning to a life not ruled by the sword. She was a widow, a woman who had lost everything but her desire to live after the death of her husband and son.
battles
The War Wolf – Let’s Read and Discuss 26
The strain that Guillaume must have been under during this time is rarely considered in most historical accounts. It is often assumed that he had total power over everyone, but there are some suggestions that this was not so. As part of his preparations, Guillaume demanded the delivery of hostages, usually children, from some of his retainers
The War Wolf – Let’s Read and Discuss 25
Coenred slips back into the captured city of York with a number of objectives to achieve. Not only is he concerned with discovering what the Vikings plan to do next, he has both good and bad news to deliver to the families of men he fought alongside with only a few hours earlier.
The War Wolf – Let’s Read and Discuss 24
Despite their lust for glory the two noblemen decide to abandon the people of York to their enemies. They are all for fleeing to the safety of distant Durham.
The War Wolf – Let’s Read and Discuss 23
It is a historical fact that at the Battle of Fulford Gate 500 huscalrs banded together and fought a last stand. Why they did this is not recorded, or at least I was unable to find a reliable account of their motive. How successful they were is also forgotten.
The War Wold – Let’s Read and Discuss 22
A short but important piece. As the battle at Fulford Gate heads towards its tragic conclusion, Mildryth and Wulfhere experience their very first confrontation.
The War Wolf – Let’s Read and Discuss 21
The end of the battle is approaching. High Theign Athelwine has a decision to make. It is not going to be an easy one.
The War Wolf – Let’s Read and Discuss 20
In the city of York the people are expecting great news from the battle raging at Fulford Gate, but very quickly this mood changes as the populace begin to realise the way in which the fight is going and what it will probably mean for them.
The War Wolf – Let’s Read and Discuss 18
All of the accounts that I have read of Harold's character portray him as a very active man. His recent illness appears to have been something of an anomaly, which is probably why it is mentioned. He was a very experienced politician who had also fought in several wars.
The War Wolf – Let’s Read and Discuss 17
Harald Hardrada was the most famous Viking of his day. His exploits were legendary and, it was claimed, that he had only ever lost one battle and that was when he was a boy and not a commander of men. Although Edwin and Morcar had seized the initiative and chosen the site of the battle, Hardrada thought quickly and set out his troops to best suit his own battleplan.
Peter C Whitaker 