1

One Vast Heap of Booty

By Orderic Vitalis

Embarrassed by the behaviour of his Norman bishops and abbots, King William I asked monk Guitmond to come over and set an example.

2

Vige, the Viking’s Dog

By Snorro Sturluson

Vige was the inseparable companion of swashbuckling Viking warlord Olaf Tryggvason, who picked him up in Ireland.

3

‘I Have No Quarrel With Any Man’

By Elizabeth Wilson Grierson

Magnus, Earl of Orkney, disappointed King Magnus of Norway by refusing to get involved in somebody else’s war.

4

Heaven’s Harbour

By Cynewulf

The lives of men are like voyages across stormy seas, but we no longer have to sail them as if they were uncharted waters.

5

Song of Angels, Joy of the Blest

By Cynewulf

Cynewulf encourages his listeners to remain committed to the Christian life, by reminding them of the reward that awaits them.

6

Fatal Counsel

By Henry of Huntingdon

King Edmund Ironside’s courageous defence of his crown against the invading Danes was undermined by treachery at home.