Edward son of Ethelred

Also known as: Edward / King Edward / the king · Family: English · Role: etheling; later king · First appears: A.D. 1011–1014

In 1013, Bishop Elfun was sent overseas with Edward and his brother Alfred to instruct them. Edward, son of King Ethelred and Elfgiva Emma, returned to England in 1040; after Hardacnute’s death, the people chose him king in London before Hardacnute was buried. He was consecrated at Winchester in 1043 and took Edgitha, daughter of Earl Godwin, as his wife.

In 1048, Edward ordered Earl Godwin to attack Dover, but Godwin refused, unwilling to harm his own people. Soon afterward Edward put Edgitha away and sent her to his sister at Wherwell. The dispute with Godwin continued: in 1051 Edward again ordered an expedition against Dover, and Godwin refused. Edward then proclaimed Godwin and his family outlaws; Godwin and Earl Sweyne went overseas seeking Baldwin’s protection. In 1052, Godwin and his sons gathered forces against the king, but after negotiations Edward restored Godwin and his children to his friendship, earldom, and former possessions.

Edward made appointments to church offices and earldoms throughout his reign, including giving Rodulf, his kinsman, the abbacy of Abingdon, and appointing Oddy earl over Devonshire, Somerset, Dorset, and Wales. He abolished the Danegeld and tribute imposed by his father. In 1065, he granted the request that Morkar be their earl, and Harold son of Godwin was hallowed king. Edward died on the eve of Twelfth-day in 1066 and was buried at Westminster; Harold succeeded him and was crowned that day. In 1075, Edgitha was buried beside Edward.