European Royalty discussion

Please discuss Part One: Aethelred 1002-1013 here.

Yay, I've finally started! Who else is reading (or finished) this one? Very descriptive so far. I'm glad there is a family tree. I picked out William the Conqueror on the tree (who I'm familiar with) and worked out the relationships from him.

I've read this and Harold The King which continues the history. Interesting about William as you'll find out how he came across his claim to England - he didn't just decide to invade England for the heck of it, he felt he had a valid claim to the crown through Edward.

So sad about Pallig and then his wife! :( Since that Oxford massacre had a specific date in the book, I'm assuming that general incident really occurred. Does anyone know anything about it?

Sara - Somebody wants to see it re-enacted

http://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/4133...

I was glad for the family tree at the front as well. :) I was sad with what happened with Pallig and then absolutely heartbroken over what ended up happening to his wife and children.

As for the namesake of the section, Aethelred, I just wanted to smack him sometimes at how inactive he was and how easily he was controlled by Strona (sp?). So aggravating to sit there and read how he just let his kingdom be taken away.

I cannot believe that Aethelred was king for as long as he was (34 years I think was mentioned?). I'm sure his mother ruled for a decent amount of those years, but Emma was there for a good 10 years before the Danes took over. I'm so surprised he wasn't booted long before that (especially considering the time period). Not only was he unready but he was entirely inactive! He did NOTHING!