Brennius

Also known as: Brennus · Family: Britons · Role: younger brother of Belinus · First appears: Book III 1–5

Brennius, also known as Brennus, was the younger brother of Belinus, and the two became rivals over the crown. Their quarrels led to sharp conflicts, until they agreed that Belinus, as the elder, would retain the crown and the greater part of the kingdom, while Brennius would rule Northumberland subject to him; “they ruled the country for five years in peace and justice.” Seeking to recover his lost dignity, Brennius married the king of Norway’s daughter, but Belinus defeated their forces at Calaterium. Brennius escaped by securing a ship and sailing to Gaul, while also standing opposed to Cheulphus and being pursued by Guichthlac.

In Allobroges, Brennius became friends with Seginus, who married him to his only daughter and appointed them to succeed him in the dukedom. The country’s princes paid homage to Brennius as successor, while Conwenna, his mother, reconciled him with Belinus: “they again became friends.” The brothers then joined forces, defeated the Franks within a year, and marched through Italy, destroying its cities and villages on their way toward Rome.

At Rome, Brennius and Belinus fought against Gabius and Porsena after Brennius had besieged the city and Belinus joined him. After many losses on both sides, the brothers captured Rome; Gabius was killed and Porsena taken prisoner.