Which is the best description of Harald Hardrada?
Harald’s most famous epithet is Old Norse harðráði, which has been translated variously as ‘hard in counsel’, ‘tyrannical’, ‘tyrant’, ‘hard-ruler’, ‘ruthless’, ‘savage in counsel’, ‘tough’, and ‘severe’. While Judith Jesch has argued for ‘severe’ as the best translation, Alison Finlay and Anthony Faulkes prefer ‘resolute’.
What was the name of Harald Hardrada’s brother?
In 1028 there was a Norwegian revolt during which Harald’s brother Olaf was forced into exile. When he returned two years later, Harald and 600 men were waiting to help him form an army, which then fought in the Battle of Stiklestad in July 1030.
How did Harald Hardrada become king of Norway?
Having gained support across Sweden and Denmark, Harald headed to Norway and made a compromise with his nephew; they would share the rule of Norway if Harald shared his wealth. Although this arrangement worked for two years, in 1047 Magnus died without an heir, leaving Harald the King of Norway and as self-proclaimed ruler of Denmark.
Where did Tostig Hardrada and Harald Hardrada land?
After embarking from Tynemouth, Harald and Tostig probably landed at the River Tees. They then entered Cleveland, and started plundering the coast. They encountered the first resistance at Scarborough, where Harald’s demand for surrender was opposed.
Why was Harald Hardrada exiled in 1029 AD?
In any case, Harald’s family was in loggerheads with the Norwegian crown that had been taken by the renowned (and aforementioned) King Knut of Denmark in 1029 AD. This resulted in disputes between the new king’s supporters and Harald’s family, and ultimately led to the exile of Olaf.
Where did Harald Hardrada go after Olaf died?
Olaf died during this battle and Harald fled to eastern Norway before heading to Sweden and then out to Kievan Res, where he stayed with Yaroslav the wise who had helped his brother survive when he had been exiled.
How did Harald Hardrada die in the Battle of Stamford Bridge?
Although initially successful, Harald was defeated and killed in a surprise attack by Harold Godwinson’s forces in the Battle of Stamford Bridge on 25 September 1066, which wiped out almost his entire army. Modern historians have often considered Harald’s death, which brought an end to his invasion, as the end of the Viking Age .
