Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Complete

by Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Complete" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical romance written during the mid-19th century. The narrative is centered around the life and times of Harold Godwinson, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England, delving into the impending Norman Conquest and its far-reaching implications. The text explores themes of national identity, power struggles, and personal relationships against the background of a transformative epoch in English history. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to the vibrant and festive atmosphere of May Day in 1052, as young folk celebrate the arrival of summer with joy and merriment. The scene quickly shifts focus to Hilda, a powerful and enigmatic figure rumored to engage in witchcraft, and her granddaughter Edith, a beautiful young maiden torn between their pagan heritage and the encroaching Christian faith. Hilda hints at the fateful connection between Edith and Harold Godwinson, setting up a narrative that intertwines their destinies. As the intrigue unfolds, we see political tensions brewing, particularly surrounding the outlawed Earl Godwin and the complex relationships between Saxons and Normans, preparing the reader for a story steeped in loyalty, ambition, and foreboding as they venture closer towards the monumental Field of Hastings.