Danes, Saxons and Normans; or, Stories of our ancestors

The narrative traces the Norse and Norman origins of power in northern Europe and follows the political and military events that led to the medieval invasion and settlement of England. It recounts Viking settlements and Danish incursions, the rise of Anglo-Saxon rulers and their conflicts with powerful earls, and the rival claims of leading nobles and dukes. The account presents contested succession, campaigns and pitched battles including engagements at Stamford Bridge and Hastings, then follows the consolidation of Norman rule, bitter family quarrels among the conqueror's descendants, and the eventual establishment of a new royal dynasty.