This compelling Icelandic history describes the life of King Harald
Hardradi, from his battles across Europe and Russia to his final assault
on England in 1066, less than three weeks before the invasion of William
the Conqueror. It was a battle that led to his death and marked the end
of an era in which Europe had been dominated by the threat of
Scandinavian forces. Despite England's triumph, it also played a crucial
part in fatally weakening the English army immediately prior to the
Norman Conquest, changing the course of history. Taken from the
Heimskringla--Snorri Sturluson's complete account of Norway from
prehistoric times to 1177--this is a brilliantly human depiction of the
turbulent life and savage death of the last great Norse warrior-king.
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