GOLDEN WARRIOR

With an introduction by G.M. Trevelyan, this story of the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England in 1066 is given caste and distinction. The leading figures of this era, and particularly Harold, are portrayed with individuality and sympathy, -- but more than that- there is a sense of history that pervades the whole, overwhelming the men, making them appear as part of the unfolding of historical events rather than as directing the course of history. It is this, and the fact that the material is authentic, drawn largely from contemporary sources, supplemented with legends, which distinguishes this from the usual historical novel. Here are accounts of King Edward the Good, a worthy but weak king, and the struggle that ensued after his death between Harold and William; of Harold's paralysis and cure, and his love for Edith whom he abandoned to make a marriage that was politically advantageous; his attempt- and failure- to get the support of Rome, which William was to accomplish; his detention in Normandy- and his oath to William; intrigue, alliances, culminating in the battle and the conquest. An historical novel that is for a more severe and classical audience.