King in the North: The Life and Times of Oswald of Northumbria

The magisterial biography of Oswald Whiteblade, the exiled prince of Northumbria who returned to reclaim his birthright, is a triumph of the Dark Ages. A charismatic leader and warrior, Oswald earned the epithet Whiteblade and inspired Tolkein's Aragorn.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 464 pages
\n Publication date: 12 November 2020
\n Publisher: Head of Zeus
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The captivating biography of Oswald Whiteblade, the exiled prince of Northumbria, who triumphantly reclaimed his birthright through a bloody and glorious return. A charismatic leader, renowned for his exceptional prowess in battle, earning him the revered epithet "Whiteblade," Oswald was an exiled prince who set out to reclaim his rightful place in history. This epic tale of Dark Age Britain is brought to life by archaeologist and biographer Max Adams, who restores the king in the North to his rightful place in the annals of history.

Oswald of Northumbria, the first great English monarch, has unfortunately been all but forgotten in modern times. However, this legendary figure holds a significant place in the annals of history. Max Adams, in his comprehensive portrait of Dark Age Britain, seeks to bring Oswald back to the forefront of historical consciousness. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Adams sheds light on the life and reign of this remarkable king, providing a fresh perspective on a period often overlooked in mainstream narratives.

Born into a tumultuous period of political instability and warfare, Oswald emerged as a formidable leader. His strategic brilliance and unwavering determination led him to conquer numerous territories and establish himself as a powerful ruler in the North. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Oswald never wavered in his pursuit of justice and his rightful place on the throne.

One of Oswald's most notable achievements was his successful campaign to reclaim the throne of Northumbria from the invading Danes. Through a series of daring battles and clever negotiations, Oswald managed to defeat the Danish invaders and restore the rightful heir to the throne. This victory not only secured the stability of the region but also had a lasting impact on English history, as it marked the beginning of the Anglo-Saxon era.

Oswald's reign was also marked by his commitment to promoting cultural and intellectual development. He established schools and libraries, encouraging the spread of knowledge and education throughout his kingdom. Oswald was a patron of the arts, commissioning works of art and literature that would inspire future generations.

However, Oswald's reign was not without its controversies. He was known for his strict rule and his willingness to use force to maintain his authority. His treatment of his subjects, particularly those who opposed him, has been a subject of debate among historians and scholars.

Despite these challenges, Oswald's legacy remains profound. He is remembered as a charismatic leader, a warrior whose prowess in battle earned him the respect of his enemies. He is also revered as an inspiration for the character of Aragorn in J.R.R. Tolkien's famous novel, "The Lord of the Rings."

In conclusion, Oswald Whiteblade's biography is a testament to the resilience and determination of a king who faced numerous obstacles and challenges in his quest for justice and his rightful place in history. Through the lens of Max Adams's masterful storytelling, Oswald emerges as a fascinating and complex figure, whose legacy continues to inspire and intrigue us to this day.

\n Weight: 420g\n
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 37 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781789546620\n
Edition number: Reissue\n