Harald in Byzantium

Harald Hardrada was a fierce warrior who fought in many battles, including Stiklestad, Russia, Byzantium, Sicily, the Balkans, Asia Minor, and Jerusalem. Kevin Crossley-Holland's poems explore Harald's life in Byzantium, contrasting the northern world with the softer, more seductive south.

Format: Other book format
Length: 40 pages
Publication date: 01 May 2022
Publisher: Arc Publications

Harald Hardrada, the renowned warrior of his era, embarked on a remarkable journey that spanned across continents and witnessed some of the most epic battles in history. Despite being wounded at the age of 15 during the fierce battle of Stiklestad in 1030, Hardrada refused to succumb to his injuries. Instead, he continued to fight, displaying his unparalleled courage and determination. His military exploits took him to Russia, Byzantium, Sicily, the Balkans, Asia Minor, and Jerusalem, where he engaged in fierce battles and emerged victorious.

Returning to Norway in 1045, Hardrada sought to claim the throne and succeeded in doing so through a series of strategic maneuvers. However, his reign was short-lived, as he met his demise at the Battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066. Harald Hardrada was a complex character, characterized by his ferocious energy, burning ambition, cunning, cruelty, and vengefulness. He was also a man enormously attractive to women, and his larger-than-life persona has fascinated poets and writers alike.

In this sequence of short poems, Kevin Crossley-Holland assumes the persona of Harald during his formative years in Byzantium. Through his passionate, terse, and often witty verses, he explores Harald's engagement with warfare, leadership, and love. These poems, rather than narratives, offer revelations about the glittering hard-edged northern world, still half in thrall to the old Norse gods, and the softer, more seductive south. Crossley-Holland skillfully contrasts these two worlds, highlighting the contrasts between the harsh realities of battle and the complexities of human emotions.

Through his poetry, Crossley-Holland pays tribute to Harald Hardrada's remarkable life and legacy, capturing the essence of a warrior who overcame adversity and left an indelible mark on the history of Scandinavia. Harald Hardrada's story continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day, reminding us of the power of courage, determination, and the pursuit of greatness in the face of adversity.

Weight: 74g
Dimension: 139 x 216 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911469124