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Swein demanding ransom, illustration from The Church of England
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Swein demanding ransom, illustration from The Church of England
STC393314 Swein demanding ransom, illustration from The Church of England: A History for the People by H.D.M. Spence-Jones, pub. c.1910 (litho) (sepia photo) by Zier, Francois Edouard (1856-1924) (after); Private Collection; (add.info.: King Sweyn (c.960-1014) of Denmark and England; ); The Stapleton Collection; French, out of copyright
Media ID 23254562
© The Stapleton Collection / Bridgeman Images
Archbishop Bishop Bribe Dane Danes Danish Early Britain Monastery Pay Off Payment Raiders Spoils Tribute Tuck Viking Vikings Danegeld Monks Religious Orders
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This print captures a pivotal moment in history, depicting Swein, the formidable King of Denmark and England, demanding ransom. The illustration is taken from "The Church of England: A History for the People" by H. D. M. Spence-Jones, published around 1910. In this sepia-toned lithograph by Francois Edouard Zier, we witness the coercive power of Swein as he forces his subjects to pay off their debts. The scene portrays an early Britain under siege by Viking raiders who sought tribute and spoils from its inhabitants. Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, a priest stands before Swein with a solemn expression on his face. Behind him looms a bishop and an archbishop representing the religious orders affected by these demands. Monasteries were not spared either; they too had to contribute to the hefty tax imposed upon them. The image evokes a sense of desperation as gold is exchanged between Vikings and Britons in what was known as "Dane Geld". This practice aimed at placating these fierce invaders through bribery or ransoming became increasingly common during this era. Through this powerful visual narrative, we are transported back in time to witness one of many instances where religion clashed with political power during medieval times. It serves as a reminder that even within places of worship, no one was immune to the reach of those seeking wealth and control. This remarkable engraving from Bridgeman Images offers us a glimpse into an important chapter in
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