The Battle of Maldon Verse Indeterminate Saxon

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1 1 The Battle of Maldon Verse Indeterminate Saxon brocen wurde. Het þa hyssa hwæne hors forlætan, feor afysan, and forð gangan, hicgan to handum and to hige godum. þa þæt Offan mæg ærest onfunde, þæt se eorl nolde yrhðo geþolian, he let him þa of handon leofne fleogan hafoc wið þæs holtes, and to þære hilde stop; be þam man mihte oncnawan þæt se cniht nolde wacian æt þam wige, þa he to wæpnum feng. Eac him wolde Eadric his ealdre gelæstan, frean to gefeohte, ongan þa forð beran gar to guþe. He hæfde god geþanc þa hwile þe he mid handum healdan mihte bord and bradswurd; beot he gelæste þa he ætforan his frean feohtan sceolde. ða þær Byrhtnoð ongan beornas trymian, rad and rædde, rincum tæhte hu hi sceoldon standan and þone stede healdan, and bæd þæt hyra randas rihte heoldon fæste mid folman, and ne forhtedon na. þa he hæfde þæt folc fægere getrymmed, he lihte þa mid leodon þær him leofost wæs, þær he his heorðwerod holdost wiste. þa stod on stæðe, stiðlice clypode wicinga ar, wordum mælde, se on beot abead brimliþendra ærænde to þam eorle, þær he on ofre stod: "Me sendon to þe sæmen snelle, heton ðe secgan þæt þu most sendan raðe beagas wið gebeorge; and eow betere is þæt ge þisne garræs mid gafole forgyldon, þon we swa hearde hilde dælon. Ne þurfe we us spillan, gif ge spedaþ to þam; we willað wið þam golde grið fæstnian. Gyf þu þat gerædest, þe her ricost eart, þæt þu þine leoda lysan wille, syllan sæmannum on hyra sylfra dom feoh wið freode, and niman frið æt us, we willaþ mid þam sceattum us to scype gangan, on flot feran, and eow friþes healdan." Byrhtnoð maþelode, bord hafenode, wand wacne æsc, wordum mælde, yrre and anræd ageaf him andsware:

2 "Gehyrst þu, sælida, hwæt þis folc segeð? Hi willað eow to gafole garas syllan, ættrynne ord and ealde swurd, þa heregeatu þe eow æt hilde ne deah. Brimmanna boda, abeod eft ongean, sege þinum leodum miccle laþre spell, þæt her stynt unforcuð eorl mid his werode, þe wile gealgean eþel þysne, æþelredes eard, ealdres mines, folc and foldan. Feallan sceolon hæþene æt hilde. To heanlic me þinceð þæt ge mid urum sceattum to scype gangon unbefohtene, nu ge þus feor hider on urne eard in becomon. Ne sceole ge swa softe sinc gegangan; us sceal ord and ecg ær geseman, grim guðplega, ær we gofol syllon." Het þa bord beran, beornas gangan, þæt hi on þam easteðe ealle stodon. Ne mihte þær for wætere werod to þam oðrum; þær com flowende flod æfter ebban, lucon lagustreamas. To lang hit him þuhte, hwænne hi togædere garas beron. Hi þær Pantan stream mid prasse bestodon, Eastseaxena ord and se æschere. Ne mihte hyra ænig oþrum derian, buton hwa þurh flanes flyht fyl gename. Se flod ut gewat; þa flotan stodon gearowe, wicinga fela, wiges georne. Het þa hæleða hleo healdan þa bricge wigan wigheardne, se wæs haten Wulfstan, cafne mid his cynne, þæt wæs Ceolan sunu, þe ðone forman man mid his francan ofsceat þe þær baldlicost on þa bricge stop. þær stodon mid Wulfstane wigan unforhte, ælfere and Maccus, modige twegen, þa noldon æt þam forda fleam gewyrcan, ac hi fæstlice wið ða fynd weredon, þa hwile þe hi wæpna wealdan moston. þa hi þæt ongeaton and georne gesawon þæt hi þær bricgweardas bitere fundon, ongunnon lytegian þa laðe gystas, bædon þæt hi upgang agan moston, ofer þone ford faran, feþan lædan. ða se eorl ongan for his ofermode

3 alyfan landes to fela laþere ðeode. Ongan ceallian þa ofer cald wæter Byrhtelmes bearn (beornas gehlyston): "Nu eow is gerymed, gað ricene to us, guman to guþe; god ana wat hwa þære wælstowe wealdan mote." Wodon þa wælwulfas (for wætere ne murnon), wicinga werod, west ofer Pantan, ofer scir wæter scyldas wegon, lidmen to lande linde bæron. þær ongean gramum gearowe stodon Byrhtnoð mid beornum; he mid bordum het wyrcan þone wihagan, and þæt werod healdan fæste wið feondum. þa wæs feohte neh, tir æt getohte. Wæs seo tid cumen þæt þær fæge men feallan sceoldon. þær wearð hream ahafen, hremmas wundon, earn æses georn; wæs on eorþan cyrm. Hi leton þa of folman feolhearde speru, gegrundene garas fleogan; bogan wæron bysige, bord ord onfeng. Biter wæs se beaduræs, beornas feollon on gehwæðere hand, hyssas lagon. Wund wearð Wulfmær, wælræste geceas, Byrhtnoðes mæg; he mid billum wearð, his swuster sunu, swiðe forheawen. þær wearð wicingum wiþerlean agyfen. Gehyrde ic þæt Eadweard anne sloge swiðe mid his swurde, swenges ne wyrnde, þæt him æt fotum feoll fæge cempa; þæs him his ðeoden þanc gesæde, þam burþene, þa he byre hæfde. Swa stemnetton stiðhicgende hysas æt hilde, hogodon georne hwa þær mid orde ærost mihte on fægean men feorh gewinnan, wigan mid wæpnum; wæl feol on eorðan. Stodon stædefæste; stihte hi Byrhtnoð, bæd þæt hyssa gehwylc hogode to wige þe on Denon wolde dom gefeohtan. Wod þa wiges heard, wæpen up ahof, bord to gebeorge, and wið þæs beornes stop. Eode swa anræd eorl to þam ceorle, ægþer hyra oðrum yfeles hogode. Sende ða se særinc suþerne gar,

4 þæt gewundod wearð wigena hlaford; he sceaf þa mid ðam scylde, þæt se sceaft tobærst, and þæt spere sprengde, þæt hit sprang ongean. Gegremod wearð se guðrinc; he mid gare stang wlancne wicing, þe him þa wunde forgeaf. Frod wæs se fyrdrinc; he let his francan wadan þurh ðæs hysses hals, hand wisode þæt he on þam færsceaðan feorh geræhte. ða he oþerne ofstlice sceat, þæt seo byrne tobærst; he wæs on breostum wund þurh ða hringlocan, him æt heortan stod ætterne ord. Se eorl wæs þe bliþra, hloh þa, modi man, sæde metode þanc ðæs dægweorces þe him drihten forgeaf. Forlet þa drenga sum daroð of handa, fleogan of folman, þæt se to forð gewat þurh ðone æþelan æþelredes þegen. Him be healfe stod hyse unweaxen, cniht on gecampe, se full caflice bræd of þam beorne blodigne gar, Wulfstanes bearn, Wulfmær se geonga, forlet forheardne faran eft ongean; ord in gewod, þæt se on eorþan læg þe his þeoden ær þearle geræhte. Eode þa gesyrwed secg to þam eorle; he wolde þæs beornes beagas gefecgan, reaf and hringas and gerenod swurd. þa Byrhtnoð bræd bill of sceðe, brad and bruneccg, and on þa byrnan sloh. To raþe hine gelette lidmanna sum, þa he þæs eorles earm amyrde. Feoll þa to foldan fealohilte swurd; ne mihte he gehealdan heardne mece, wæpnes wealdan. þa gyt þæt word gecwæð har hilderinc, hyssas bylde, bæd gangan forð gode geferan; ne mihte þa on fotum leng fæste gestandan. He to heofenum wlat: "Geþancie þe, ðeoda waldend, ealra þæra wynna þe ic on worulde gebad. Nu ic ah, milde metod, mæste þearfe þæt þu minum gaste godes geunne, þæt min sawul to ðe siðian mote on þin geweald, þeoden engla, mid friþe ferian. Ic eom frymdi to þe

5 þæt hi helsceaðan hynan ne moton." ða hine heowon hæðene scealcas and begen þa beornas þe him big stodon, ælfnoð and Wulmær begen lagon, ða onemn hyra frean feorh gesealdon. Hi bugon þa fram beaduwe þe þær beon noldon. þær wearð Oddan bearn ærest on fleame, Godric fram guþe, and þone godan forlet þe him mænigne oft mear gesealde; he gehleop þone eoh þe ahte his hlaford, on þam gerædum þe hit riht ne wæs, and his broðru mid him begen ærndon, Godwine and Godwig, guþe ne gymdon, ac wendon fram þam wige and þone wudu sohton, flugon on þæt fæsten and hyra feore burgon, and manna ma þonne hit ænig mæð wære, gyf hi þa geearnunga ealle gemundon þe he him to duguþe gedon hæfde. Swa him Offa on dæg ær asæde on þam meþelstede, þa he gemot hæfde, þæt þær modiglice manega spræcon þe eft æt þearfe þolian noldon. þa wearð afeallen þæs folces ealdor, æþelredes eorl; ealle gesawon heorðgeneatas þæt hyra heorra læg. þa ðær wendon forð wlance þegenas, unearge men efston georne; hi woldon þa ealle oðer twega, lif forlætan oððe leofne gewrecan. Swa hi bylde forð bearn ælfrices, wiga wintrum geong, wordum mælde, ælfwine þa cwæð, he on ellen spræc: "Gemunan þa mæla þe we oft æt meodo spræcon, þonne we on bence beot ahofon, hæleð on healle, ymbe heard gewinn; nu mæg cunnian hwa cene sy. Ic wylle mine æþelo eallum gecyþan, þæt ic wæs on Myrcon miccles cynnes; wæs min ealda fæder Ealhelm haten, wis ealdorman, woruldgesælig. Ne sceolon me on þære þeode þegenas ætwitan þæt ic of ðisse fyrde feran wille, eard gesecan, nu min ealdor ligeð forheawen æt hilde. Me is þæt hearma mæst; he wæs ægðer min mæg and min hlaford."

6 þa he forð eode, fæhðe gemunde, þæt he mid orde anne geræhte flotan on þam folce, þæt se on foldan læg forwegen mid his wæpne. Ongan þa winas manian, frynd and geferan, þæt hi forð eodon. Offa gemælde, æscholt asceoc: "Hwæt þu, ælfwine, hafast ealle gemanode þegenas to þearfe, nu ure þeoden lið, eorl on eorðan. Us is eallum þearf þæt ure æghwylc oþerne bylde wigan to wige, þa hwile þe he wæpen mæge habban and healdan, heardne mece, gar and godswurd. Us Godric hæfð, earh Oddan bearn, ealle beswicene. Wende þæs formoni man, þa he on meare rad, on wlancan þam wicge, þæt wære hit ure hlaford; forþan wearð her on felda folc totwæmed, scyldburh tobrocen. Abreoðe his angin, þæt he her swa manigne man aflymde!" Leofsunu gemælde and his linde ahof, bord to gebeorge; he þam beorne oncwæð: "Ic þæt gehate, þæt ic heonon nelle fleon fotes trym, ac wille furðor gan, wrecan on gewinne minne winedrihten. Ne þurfon me embe Sturmere stedefæste hælæð wordum ætwitan, nu min wine gecranc, þæt ic hlafordleas ham siðie, wende fram wige, ac me sceal wæpen niman, ord and iren." He ful yrre wod, feaht fæstlice, fleam he forhogode. Dunnere þa cwæð, daroð acwehte, unorne ceorl, ofer eall clypode, bæd þæt beorna gehwylc Byrhtnoð wrece: "Ne mæg na wandian se þe wrecan þenceð frean on folce, ne for feore murnan." þa hi forð eodon, feores hi ne rohton; ongunnon þa hiredmen heardlice feohtan, grame garberend, and god bædon þæt hi moston gewrecan hyra winedrihten and on hyra feondum fyl gewyrcan. Him se gysel ongan geornlice fylstan; he wæs on Norðhymbron heardes cynnes, Ecglafes bearn, him wæs æscferð nama. He ne wandode na æt þam wigplegan, ac he fysde forð flan genehe;

7 hwilon he on bord sceat, hwilon beorn tæsde, æfre embe stunde he sealde sume wunde, þa hwile ðe he wæpna wealdan moste. þa gyt on orde stod Eadweard se langa, gearo and geornful, gylpwordum spræc þæt he nolde fleogan fotmæl landes, ofer bæc bugan, þa his betera leg. He bræc þone bordweall and wið þa beornas feaht, oðþæt he his sincgyfan on þam sæmannum wurðlice wrec, ær he on wæle lege. Swa dyde æþeric, æþele gefera, fus and forðgeorn, feaht eornoste. Sibyrhtes broðor and swiðe mænig oþer clufon cellod bord, cene hi weredon; bærst bordes lærig, and seo byrne sang gryreleoða sum. þa æt guðe sloh Offa þone sælidan, þæt he on eorðan feoll, and ðær Gaddes mæg grund gesohte. Raðe wearð æt hilde Offa forheawen; he hæfde ðeah geforþod þæt he his frean gehet, swa he beotode ær wið his beahgifan þæt hi sceoldon begen on burh ridan, hale to hame, oððe on here crincgan, on wælstowe wundum sweltan; he læg ðegenlice ðeodne gehende. ða wearð borda gebræc. Brimmen wodon, guðe gegremode; gar oft þurhwod fæges feorhhus. Forð þa eode Wistan, þurstanes sunu, wið þas secgas feaht; he wæs on geþrange hyra þreora bana, ær him Wigelines bearn on þam wæle læge. þær wæs stið gemot; stodon fæste wigan on gewinne, wigend cruncon, wundum werige. Wæl feol on eorþan. Oswold and Eadwold ealle hwile, begen þa gebroþru, beornas trymedon, hyra winemagas wordon bædon þæt hi þær æt ðearfe þolian sceoldon, unwaclice wæpna neotan. Byrhtwold maþelode bord hafenode (se wæs eald geneat), æsc acwehte; he ful baldlice beornas lærde: "Hige sceal þe heardra, heorte þe cenre, mod sceal þe mare, þe ure mægen lytlað. Her lið ure ealdor eall forheawen,

8 god on greote. A mæg gnornian se ðe nu fram þis wigplegan wendan þenceð. Ic eom frod feores; fram ic ne wille, ac ic me be healfe minum hlaforde, be swa leofan men, licgan þence." Swa hi æþelgares bearn ealle bylde, Godric to guþe. Oft he gar forlet, wælspere windan on þa wicingas, swa he on þam folce fyrmest eode, heow and hynde, oðþæt he on hilde gecranc. Næs þæt na se Godric þe ða guðe forbeah The Battle of Maldon Translated from the Anglo-Saxon by Wilfrid Berridge BRITHNOTH DECIDES TO FIGHT Then he ordered each of his warriors his horse to loose Far off to send it and forth to go, To be mindful of his hands and of his high heart. Then did Offa's Kinsman first know That the earl would not brook cowardice, Loosed he from his hands his darling to fly, His Hawk to the wood, and to the battle strode. From that one could tell that the chieftain would never Weaken in the warfare - when he his weapons seized. And after him Edric chose his chief to follow, His friend in the fight - then 'gan he forth to bear The spear to the strife - high spirit had he, So long as he with his hands to hold was able His buckler and broadsword; his boast he fulfilled That he by his friend's side should fight. BRITHNOTH PREPARES HIS ARRAY Then did Brithnoth begin his men to bestow - He rode up and counselled them - his soldiers he taught How they should stand, and their standing to keep, And bade them their round shields rightly to hold Fast to their forearms, that they flinch not at all. And when he had his folk fairly bestowed He lighted there with his people, where he would liefest be Where he knew his own troops were most to be trusted. THE VIKINGS PARLEY Then stood forth on the strand and sternly spake The messenger of the Vikings, delivered his tidings; He boastfully spoke, for the seafarers Their sentence to the earl, where he stood on the shore. "They sent me to thee, those bold seamen, And bade me to say that thou must send swiftly Ring-money for pledges. For you were it better That you buy off this spear-rush with your tax, Than that we should have so hard a battle. What need we to vex us, if you will agree? We will for this gold a sure compact make If thou wilt agree to it - thou that art strongest. If that thou be willing thy people to redeem,

9 9 To yield to the seamen at their own choice Tribute for a truce, and so take peace of us, Then will we with the tax to ship betake us To sail on the sea - and hold truce with you. Brithnoth made answer - his buckler he grasped, Brandished his slender spear - and spoke. "Hearest thou, sea-robber, what this people say? For tribute they're ready to give you their spears, The edge poison-bitter, and the ancient sword. War-gear that will bring you no profit in the fight. Thou messenger of the seamen, back with thy message. Tell to thy people, these far more hateful tidings, There stands here a good earl in the midst of his men, Who will this country ever defend, The kingdom of Aethelred, mine overlord, The folk and the ground - but they shall fall, The foemen in the fight; too shameful methinks That ye with our tribute, to ship should be gone Without a blow struck - now that ye have thus far Made your incoming into our land. Nor shall ye so softly carry off our riches. Sooner shall point and edge reconcile us, Grim warplay indeed - before we give tribute." Bade he then to bear the shields, the warriors to go, So that they on the river's bank all stood. THE TIDE DELAYS THE FIGHTING Nor could for the water, the army come at the other, For there came flowing, flood after ebb; Locked were the ocean-streams, and too long it seemed Until they together might carry their spears. There by Panta's stream in array they bestood, Essex men's rank, and the men from the ships, Nor might any one of them injure the other Except where from arrow's flight one had his death. The flood went out - the pirates stood ready. Full many of the Vikings, eager for battle. BRITHNOTH SETS A GUARD OVER THE FORD Then bade the men's saviour, one to hold the bridge, A warrior war-hardened, that was Wulfstan hight 1, Courageous mid his kin - he was Ceola's son, Who the first foeman with his spear did fell That bravest stepped forth upon the bridge. There stood with Wulfstan warriors goodly Aelfere and Maccus, high hearted both, That never at the ford would turn them to flight, But they steadfastly 'gainst their foes made defence, While their weapons to wield they were able. THE VIKINGS ARE BAULKED When they saw that, and keenly espied That bitter bridge-guardians there they met Then began they to feign - those loathed guests - And begged that they might some foothold get, To fare over the ford - the foemen to lead. BRITHNOTH ALLOWS THE VIKINGS TO CROSS Then did the earl, in his overweening heart Lend land too much to that loathed people. Then 'gan he call out - across the cold water

10 10 Brighthelm's son, and all the band listened. "Now room is meted you, come swiftly to us, Warriors to war. Only God knows Who at the end shall possess this fight's field". Then went the war wolves - for water they recked not. The troop of the pirates, west over Panta. Over the shining water they carried their shields Seamen to the shore, their bucklers they shouldered. There against the raiders ready stood Brithnoth with his band, and with the bucklers bade Form the shield wall, and make firm the ranks Fast against the foes. Then was fighting nigh, Fame in the fight - now was the hour come When that the feymen 2 must fall. THE BATTLE IS JOINED Now was riot raised, the ravens wheeled, The eagle, eager for carrion, there was a cry on earth. Then loosed they from their hands the file-hard lance, The sharp-ground spears to fly. Bows were busied - buckler met point Bitter was the battle-rush, warriors fell On either hand, the young men lay! Wounded was Wulfmur, a war bed he chose, Even Brithnoth's kinsman, he with swords Was straight cut down, his sister's son. Then to the Vikings was requital given. I heard that Edward did slay one Straightly with his sword, nor stinted 3 the blow, That at his feet fell - the fey warrior. For this his thane did to him give thanks, Even to his chamberlain - when he had a space. THE ESSEX MEN STAND FAST So stood firm the stout-hearted Warriors in the war - they did keenly strive Who with his point first should be able From fey men to win life. Warriors with weapons: wrack fell on earth. They stood steadfast; Brithnoth stirred them, Bade each of his men intend to the strife That would from the Danes win glory. A VIKING ATTACKS BRITHNOTH Went one stern in battle - his weapon upheaved, His shield for safety - and 'gainst the chief strode - As resolute against him the earl did go, Each to the other did evil intend. Sent then the seafarer a southern dart, And wounded was the warriors' chieftain. But he shoved with his shield - so that the shaft burst, And the spear broke, and it sprang away. Wroth was the chieftain, he pierced with his spear That proud Viking who gave him that wound. Yet prudent was the chieftain; he aimed his shaft to go Through the man's neck - his hand guided it So that he reached his sudden enemy's life. Then he a second swiftly sent That the breastplate burst - in the heart was he wounded Through the ring-harness - and at his heart stood The poisoned point; the earl was the blither:-

11 11 Laughed then that high-heart - made thanks to God For his day's work - that his Saviour granted him. A SECOND VIKING WOUNDS BRITHNOTH Loosed then one of the foemen a dart from his hands, To fly from his finders - that it rushed forth Through the noble thane of Aethelred. Close to his side stood a youth not yet grown Wulfstan's child - even Wulfmeer the younger. He plucked from his chieftain that bloody spear Then loosed the hard spear 'gainst that other to go; In ran the point - so that he on earth lay Who ere had sorely wounded his chief. Went an armed Viking against the earl Who wished the earl's jewels to plunder, His armour and rings - and well-adorned sword. Then Brithnoth drew his sword from sheath Broad and brown edged - and at his breast-plate smote. Too soon hindered him one of the seamen, So that the earl's arm he did injure. Fell then to earth the fallow-hilted sword, Nor could he hold the hard brand Or wield his weapon. BRITHNOTH'S DYING WORDS Yet then this word did speak The old warrior; cheered on his men Ordered to go forward - his good brethren. No longer could he firmly on his feet stand. He looked up to heaven... "I thank Thee, Lord of all peoples For all those joys that I on earth have known. Now, my Maker mild - I have most need That thou to my ghost should grant good. That my soul to Thee may journey, Into thy kingdom - O lord of the Angels, May pass with peace - I do desire of Thee That the hell-fiends may not hurt it." Then hewed at him those heathen men And at both those men that stood him beside, Aelfnoth and Wulfmeer - both fell; Then beside their liege - their lives they yielded. GODRIC BEGINS THE FLIGHT Then fled those from the fight that wished not to be there. Then were Odda's sons first in the flight Godric from the battle, and left his good lord Who had often given him many a mare, He sprang upon the horse that his lord had owned, Upon the trappings where no right had he, And with him his brothers - they both galloped off, Godrinc and Godwig, they loved not the battle, They went from that war - and the wood they sought, They fled to the fastness - and saved their own lives, And men more than had any right If they had all bethought them of the blessings That he had done them for their good comfort. Even thus to him Offa one day ere had said In the meeting-place where he held his moot. That with proud minds many did then speak Who later at need would not endure. Then fell that leader of the folk,

12 12 Aethelred's earl and all did see, His hearth companions - that their lord was laid low. MANY CONTINUE THE BATTLE Then went forth the proud thanes, Brave men - hastened eagerly, And willed they all - for one of two things: Their lives to lose, or their loved lord to avenge. Thus urged them forth the son of Aelfric, A warrior young in winters - with words he spake, Aelfwin thus said - boldly he spoke, "Think ye of the times when we oft spake at mead When we on the benches did raise up our boast, Henchmen in the hall - about hard strife, Now may each one make trial of how bold he be. Now will I tell my lineage to all That I was in Mercia of a mighty kindred Mine old father - Aldhelm was hight, An alderman wise - and rich in wealth; Nor shall the thanes mid the people reproach me, That I would consent to flee from this fight, My home to seek, now my lord lieth low, Slain in the strife; but yet it most grieves me For that he was both - my kinsman and my lord." Then went he forth - full mindful of the feud, So that with his spear one he slew. A pirate 'mong his people - that he fell to the earth. Slain by his weapon. He 'gan to urge on His comrades and friends - that they should go forth. Offa spake, his spear-shaft shook, "Lo thou, Aelfwin, hast all heartened Thanes at need - now our lord lieth, The earl on the earth - for us all is need That each one of us should hearten the other Warrior to war, while he his weapon may Have and hold, his hard blade, His spear and good sword - for Godric hath us, Odda's coward son, all betrayed. For many men thought when he rode off on the mare, On that proud steed, that he was our lord. And for that cause are the folk scattered over the field The shield wall broken. May his plan come to nought! For that he so many men hath set to flight." Leofsund spoke, his buckler uphove, His shield for safety - and that man answered, "I do promise this, that I will not hence Fly a foot's step, but shall further go To avenge in the war my friendly lord. Then shall not need in Sturmere the steadfast soldiers To twit me with words, now my friend is fall'n, For that I returned home without my lord, Turned from the battle, but the sword shall take me, The point and the steel." And he, most wroth, departed. Fought steadfastly - flight he despised. Dunmer then spoke - shook his spear, A humble churl - called out above all, Bade each warrior - "Brithnoth avenge! Now may not go he who thinketh to avenge His friend among the folk, nor mourn for his life."

13 THE LAST STAND OF THE THANES And then they went forth - for life they recked not. Then 'gan the house men hardly to fight, The fierce spear bearers - and they begged God That they might avenge their friendly lord, And on their enemies bring death. Then the hostage 'gan eagerly help, He was in Northumbria of a hardy kin, Eclaf's child, and Aesferth his name. He weakened not a whit in the warplay, But he sent forth often a shaft, Often he a buckler struck, often a man hit, Ever and again he dealt out wounds The while he his weapons might wield. Then yet in the rank stood Eadward the tall, Ready and eager - a boastful word spoke, That he would not flee a foot's space of land, Or budge back, now that his better chief was fall'n. He shattered the shield wall and fought with the soldiers Until he his treasure-giver upon the seamen Had worthily avenged - 'ere he lay with the slain. So did Aeturic - a noble companion, Eager and impetuous - he fought keenly, Sibright's brother, - and full many more, - Split the hollow shields, sharply parried. The buckler's edge burst, breast-plate sang A grisly song. Then in the strife struck Offa a seaman, that he sank to the earth, And then Gadda's kinsman the ground sought. Soon in the struggle was Offa struck down Yet had he done what he boasted to his friend As he bragged before to his ring-giver:- That they both to the burg should ride Hale to their home, or in the battle fall, On the war field perish of their wounds. He fell like true thane at his chief's side. Then was breaking of bucklers, the seamen came on Stern to the strife; the spear often pierced A feyman's body. Forth then went Wistan, Thurstan's son, with the enemy fought, He was in the throng - of three men the bane Ere him Wigelin's son on the battlefield laid. Then was stern meeting, stood fast Warriors in the war, then men sank down Wearied with wounds - slaughter fell on earth. Oswald and Ealdwald all the while Brothers both, urged on the men, Their dear kinsmen, with words incited That they there at need should hold out, Stoutly wield their weapons. Brythwold spoke, grasped his buckler, He was an old comrade, urged the men, He full boldly cheered his soldiers, "Thought must be the harder, heart the keener Spirit shall be more - as our might lessens. There lies our chief all cut down, Good man on the ground; for ever may he grieve Who now from this war-play thinketh to go. I am old in years - hence I will not, But by the side of mine own lord, 13

14 14 By my chief so loved, I think to lie." And thus them all did Aethelgar's son urge, Even Godric, to the battle - oft he cast a spear, A spear of slaughter to go upon the Vikings, As he 'mid the folk foremost went, Smote and struck down till he sank down in the fight. He was not that Godric who left the battle. The Battle of Maldon A Verse Translation by Douglas B. Killings would be broken. Then he ordered a warrior each horse be let free, driven afar and advance onward, giving thought to deeds of arms and to steadfast courage. Then it was that Offa's kinsman first perceived, that the Earl would not endure cowardice, for he let then from his hand flee his beloved falcon towards the woods and there to battle went forth. By this a man might understand that this youth would not prove soft at the coming battle, when he takes up arms. Further Eadric desired to serve his chief, his lord to fight with; and so he advanced forward his spear to battle. He had a dauntless spirit as long as he with hands might be able to grasp 15 shield and broad sword: the vow he would carry out that he had made before his lord saying he would fight. Then Byrhtnoth marshalled his soldiers, riding and instructing, directing his warriors how they should stand and the positions they should keep, 20 and ordering that their shields properly stand firm with steady hands and be not afraid. Then when he beheld that people in suitable array, he dismounted amid his people, where he was most pleased to be, there amid his retainers knowing their devotion. 25 Then stood on the shore, stoutly calling out a Viking messenger, making speech, menacingly delivering the sea-pirate's message to this Earl on the opposite shore standing: "I send to you from the bold seamen, 30 a command to tell that you must quickly send treasures to us, and it would be better to you if with tribute buy off this conflict of spears than with us bitter battle share. No need to slaughter each other if you be generous with us; 35

15 we would be willing for gold to bring a truce. If you believe which of these is the noblest path, and that your people are desirous of assurance, then pay the sea-farers on their own terms money towards peace and receive peace from us, 40 for we with this tribute will take to our ships, depart on the sea and keep peace with you." Byrhtnoth spoke, his shield raised aloft, brandishing a slender ash-wood spear, speaking words, wrathful and resolute did he give his answer: 45 "Hear now you, pirate, what this people say? They desire to you a tribute of spears to pay, poisoned spears and old swords, the war-gear which you in battle will not profit from. Sea-thieves messenger, deliver back in reply, 50 tell your people this spiteful message, that here stands undaunted an Earl with his band of men who will defend our homeland, Aethelred's country, the lord of my people and land. Fall shall you 55 heathen in battle! To us it would be shameful that you with our coin to your ships should get away without a fight, now you thus far into our homeland have come. You shall not so easily carry off our treasure: 60 with us must spear and blade first decide the terms, fierce conflict, is the tribute we will hand over." He then ordered their shields taken up, his soldiers advancing until on the river-bank they all stood. Because of the river they were not able this band of men to fight the other: 65 there came flowing the flood after the tide; joining in the tidal stream. Too long it seemed to him until the time when they together with spears join in battle. There they on the Pante stream with pride lined the banks, East Saxon spears and the sea-raider army; 70 nor might any harm the other unless through an arrow's flight death receive. Then the tide went out. The seamen stood ready, many Vikings eager for battle. Then the heroes' protector ordered that the causeway be held 75 15

16 by a warrior stern -- Wulfstan was his name -- valiant with his people: that was Ceola's son, who the first man with his spear slain was one who boldly on the causeway stood. There fought with Wulfstan warriors fearless, 80 Aelfere and Maccus, two great in courage, who would not at this fjord take to flight, but stoutly against the enemy defended themselves while with their weapons they might wield. Then they understood and clearly saw, 85 that this guarding of the causeway was a fierce encounter, and so began to use guile, the hateful strangers, asked that passage to land they might have, to the shore and pass the fjord would this force lead. Then the Earl permitted in his great pride 90 to allow land many of these hateful people; and so then shouted on the shore of the cold water Byrhtelm's child -- and the warriors listened: "Now the way is open to you: come quickly to us you men to battle. God alone knows 95 who on this field of honor may be allowed to be the master of." Then advanced the wolves of slaughter, for water they cared not for, this band of Vikings; west over the Pante's shining water shore they carried their shields, these men of the fleet towards land advanced their linden shields. 100 There against the enemy stood ready Byrhtnoth with his soldiers. He with his shield commanded to form the battle ranks and that force of men to hold fast firmly towards the enemy. Then was the fight near, glory in battle. The time was come 105 that these doomed men would fall in battle. There came the loud clamor. Ravens circled around, eagles eager for carrion. On Earth was the battlecry. They then sent forth from their hands shafts hard as file, murderously sharpened spears flew. 110 Bows were busily at work, shields received spears. Fierce was that onslaught. Warriors fell in battle on either side, young men lay slain. Wounded was Wulfmaer, meeting death on the battlefield, Byrhtnoth's kinsman: he with sword was, 16

17 his sister's son, cruelly hewn down. There were the Vikings given requital: I hear that Eadweard smote one fiercely with his sword, withholding not in his blow, so that at his feet fell a doomed warrior; 120 for this he of his people gave thanks for, this chamber-thane, when the opportunity arose. So stood firm of purpose these young men in battle, eagerly giving thought to who there with spear-points was first able 125 of doomed men's life destroy, warriors with weapons. The slain in battle fell to Earth. Steadfast and unyielding, Byrhtnoth exhorted them, bidding that each young warrior's purpose to this battle, against the Danes a desire to win glory in war. 130 Advanced again to fierce battle, weapons raised up, shields to defense, and towards these warriors they stepped. Resolute they approached Earl to the lowest Yeoman: each of them intent on harm for the enemy. Sent then a sea-warrior a spear of southern make 135 that wounded the warrior lord. He thrust then with his shield such that the spear shaft burst, and that spear-head shattered as it sprang in reply. Enraged became that warrior: with anger he stabbed that proud Viking who had given him that wound. 140 Experienced was that warrior; he thrust his spear forward through the warrior's neck, his hand guiding so that he this ravager's life would fatally pierce. Then he with another stab speedily pierced the ravager so that the chainmail coat broke: this man had a breast wound 145 cut through the linked rings; through his heart stuck a deadly spear. The Earl was the better pleased: laughed then this great man of spirit, thanking the Creator for the day's work which the Lord had given him. And so then another warrior a spear from the other side 150 flew out of hand, which deeply struck through the noble Aethelred's retainer. To him by his side stood a young man not fully grown, a youth on the battlefield, who valiantly pulled out of this warrior the bloody spear, 155

18 Wulfstan's child, Wulfmaer the younger; and so with blinding speed came the shaft in reply. The spear penetrated, for that who on the Earth now lay among his people, the one who had sorely pierced. Went then armed a man to this Earl; 160 he desirous of this warrior's belongings to take off with, booty and rings and an ornamental sword. Then Byrhtnoth drew his sword from its sheath broad and bright of blade, and then struck the man's coat of mail. But too soon he was prevented by a certain sea-scavenger, 165 and then the Earl's arm was wounded. Fall then to the ground with his gold-hilted sword: his grip unable to hold the heavy sword, or wield the weapon. Then still uttered those words of the grey-haired warrior, encouraging the younger warriors, 170 bidding to advance stoutly together. Not could he on his feet any longer stand firmly up, and so he looked to heaven: "I thank you, Lord of my people, all the joys which I on this world have experienced. 175 "Now I ask, oh merciful Creator, the greatest hope that to you my spirit shall be granted salvation that my soul to thee be permitted to journey and into your power, King of Angels, with peace I depart. I only beseech that 180 the fiends of hell shall not be permitted to harm me." Then he was slain by the heathen warriors; and both of those warriors which by him stood, Aelfnoth and Wulmaer were each slain, close by their lord did they give up their lives. 185 Then turned away from battle those that would not stay: there went Odda's child first to flight, Godric fled from the battle, and the noble abandoned the one which had often given him many a horse. He leapt upon the mount of the steed which had once been his lord's, 190 on those trappings of which he was not fit, he and with his brothers both galloped away, Godwine and Godwig not caring for battle, but turned away from this battlefield and to the forest fled, seeking a place of safety and to protect their lives,

19 and many more men than what is right were there, then if they had acted deservingly and all remembered he, who had to them, all benefits did make. Thus had Offa on that day first said at the meeting place, there at the council, 200 that there would be boldly many a boastful speech which at the time of stress would not endure. So now was laid low the Chief of this army, Aethelred's Earl. All saw those sharers of the hearth that their lord lay slain. 205 But then there advanced onward those splendid retainers, undaunted men hastening eagerly: they desired all one of two things, to leave life or else to avenge their dear lord. And so exhorting them to advance was the child of Aelfrices, 210 a warrior young in winters whose words spoke, Aelfwine then said, he in valiant talk: "Remember the speeches which we had often at mead spoken, that we on the bench had loudly uttered vows, warriors in the hall, concerning bitter strife: 215 Now may we prove who is truly valiant! I am willing that my royal descent be made known to all men, that I was of Mercian blood greatly kindred; my grandfather was named Ealhelm, a wise alderman and very prosperous. 220 Not shall me these people's liegeman reproach that I of this army am willing to depart from, a homeland seek, now that my lord lies slain and hewn down in battle. Mine is that sorrow greatest: he was both my kinsman and my lord." 225 Then he advanced onward, remembering with hostility, then he with spear-point pierced one pirate in their host, and to the ground lie slain killed with the weapon. He began then to exhorted his comrades, friends and compatriots, that they advance onward. 230 Offa spoke, shaking his ashen spear: "Lo, thou Aelfwine, have your words thus reminded us liegemen to our allegiance. Now our people's protector lies slain, the Earl is on the Earth, and to us all is our need that one another encourage each other

20 warriors to battle, while with weapons we are able to have and grasp, the hard blade, the spear and the good sword. To us has Godric, that cowardly sun of Odda, all betrayed. Many men believed, then when he rode on the horse, 240 on that splendid steed, that it was our lord. Because of that happening here on the battlefield the people scattered, the wall of shields breaking asunder. Shame on that action, for because of him thus many a man was caused to flee!" Leofsunu spoke and his linden shield was raised, 245 the board to defense; this warrior replied: "I that swear, that from here I will not flee a foot's space, as my desire is to advance further, avenge in battle-strife my lord and friend. I have no desire among Sturmere's unyielding heroes 250 to reproach my word, now that my patron has perished, that I now lordless go on a homeward journey, having turned away from battle, but rather I shall be taken by weapons, either spear or iron." Wrathfully he advanced, fighting resolutely, for he despised flight. 255 Dunnere then said, brandishing his spear, a simple yeoman calling out to the entire shore, exhorting that each warrior avenge Byrhtnoth: "One cannot retreat who intends vengeance for our lord of the host, if their lives they care not for." 260 So then they pressed forward, caring not about their lives. Then began these retainers to fiercely fight, ferocious warriors armed with spears, and praying to God that they might avenge their lord and patron and on their enemy death make. 265 Thus the hostage himself willingly helped; he was a Northumbrian of a brave family, Ecglaf's child; he was named Aescferth. He hesitated not at the play of battle, but shot forward many arrows; 270 here striking a shield, there cutting down a warrior, at almost every moment giving out some wound, all the while with his weapon he would wield. Yet still at the battle front stood Eadweard the tall ready and eager, speaking vaunting words

21 that he would not flee a foot's ground, or turn away back to the bank, then leave his superior where he lay. He broke through that wall of shields and among the warriors fought, until his bounteous lord upon those sea-men did worthily avenge, and he on the battlefield lie slain. 280 So did Aetheric, noble comrade, press forward and eager to advance fight resolutely, Sibyrht's brother and very many others; splitting the enemy's shields, valiantly they defended themselves. Rang the shield rims, and sang the corselets of mail 285 a certain terrible dirge. Then at the battle's height Offa a sea-farer sent to the Earth dead, and there Gadd's kinsman was laid low to the ground: soon it was at battle that Offa was hewn down. He had however accomplished that vow to his lord 290 that he had uttered before to his giver of rings, that either they both ride to the fortified home unhurt or else perish fighting on the battlefield and die of their wounds. He lay slain nobly near the lord of his people. 295 Then it happened that the shields broke through. The seawarriors advanced, to battle enraged. Spear often pierced the doomed houses of life. Onward then advanced Wistan, Thurhstan's son, to these warriors fought. He was among the throng and slew three, 300 before Wigelm's child lay slain in battle. There was severe combat. Stood firm did these warriors in battle. Warriors perished exhausted by their wounds. The slain fell dead to the Earth. Oswold and Eadwold all this time, 305 both of these brothers encouraged the soldiers, their beloved kinsman they would exhort through words that they needed to endure without weakening and make use of their weapons. Byrhtwold spoke, shield raised aloft he was an old loyal retainer -- and brandished his spear; he very boldly commanded the warriors: "Our hearts must grow resolute, our courage more valiant, our spirits must be greater, though our strength grows less. Here lies our Lord all hewn down, 21

22 goodly he lies in the dust. A kinsman mourns that who now from this battle-play thinks to turn away. I am advanced in years. I do not desire to be taken away, but I by my liege Lord, by that favorite of men I intend to lie." 320 So then did Aethelgar's child enbolden them all, Godric to battle. Often he sent forth spears, deadly shaft sped away onto the Vikings; thus he on this people went out in front of battle, cutting down and smiting, until he too on the battlefield perished. 325 This was not that Godric who from the battle had flown away... Translation by Jonathan Glenn... would be broken.note1 Then he commanded each young man To leave his horse, to drive it far off, and to go forth, with mind turned to strong hands and good thoughts. 5 Then Offa s kinsman first discovered that the great earl suffered no slackness; he let from his hand, then, loved one fly, hawk to the holt, and he stepped to battle.note2 So one could know that the lad wished not 10 to weaken in war, when he seized weapons. And as for him, Eadric would follow his prince, his lord to the fight; he bore forth, then, spear to the battle. He had good thought as long as he with hands could holdnote3 15 boardnote4 and bright sword: his boast he performed when to the fight he came with his lord.note5 Then Byrhtnoth began to array men there, rode and gave counsel, taught warriors how they must stand and that steadnote6 hold, 20 bade them their round-shields rightly hold fast with hands, not at all frightened.

23 23 When he had fairly arrayed that folk, he dismounted among them where it most pleased him, where he knew his hearth-bandnote7 most loyal. 25 Then on the bank stood a Viking messenger, called out stoutly, spoke with words, boastfullynote8 brought the seafarers errand to that land s earl where he stood on shore: Seamen sent me quickly to you, 30 ordered me tell you to send rings at once, wealth for defence: better for all of you that you with tribute this spear-rush forgonote9 than that we share so bitter a war. Nor need we kill each other if you perform it; 35 for gold we will fasten a truce with you. If you determine it, the mightiest here, that you for your people ransom will pay give to the seamen at their own choosing wealth for a truce and take peace from us 40 we with that payment shall to our ships, on ocean fare, hold peace with you. Byrhtnoth spoke, lifted shield, shook slender ash-spear, with words spoke, angry and one-minded gave him answer: 45 Hear you, seafarer, what this folk says? Spears will they give you, ash-spears as tribute, poisonous point, old sword an armour-tax useless to you in war. Seamen s messenger, bear word back again; 50 tell your people much loathlier tale: that here stands a goodnote10 earl with his war-band, who will defend this homeland, Ethelred s land, land of my prince, folk and fold.note11 At battle, now, 55 heathen must fall. Too shameful it seems that you, unfought, should go to ship bearing our wealth, now that thus far you have come into our land. Not so softly shall you carry off riches: 60

24 24 point must, and edge, reconcile us first, grim battle-play, before we give tribute. He bade them take shield then, go so that warriors all stood on the bank. One band could not to the other for water: 65 there came flowing the flood after ebb-tide; streams locked. Too long it seemed till they might bear spears together. With tumultnote12 they stood along Pante s stream, the van of the East-Saxons and the ash-armynote13; 70 nor might any bring harm to the other, but those who through flane-flightnote14 took death. The flood went out. The seamen stood ready, many a Viking, eager for war. Then bade men s protector to hold the bridge 75 a war-hardened hero he was called Wulfstan who with his spear slew the first man who most boldly there on the bridge stepped. There with Wulfstan stood warriors unfrightened, Aelfere and Maccus, brave twain, 80 who would not at the ford flight work, but fast against fiends defended themselves, the while they could wield weapons. When they perceived and saw clearly that they found the bridge-wards there bitter, 85 those loathly strangersnote15 began to use guile, asked for free landing, passage to shore, to fare over the ford leading foot-troops. Then the earl for his arrogancenote16 left too much landnote17 to a hostile people. 90 Then over cold water Byrhthelm s son began to call (men listened): Now you have room: come quickly to us, warriors to war. God alone knows who may master this battlefield. note18 95 Slaughter-wolves waded then, heeded not water; the Viking band, west over Pante,

25 25 over bright water, bore their shields; seamen to land lindennote19 bore. There against angernote20 Byrhtnoth stood ready, 100 surrounded by warriors. He bade them with shields build the battle-hedge, hold that troop fast against foes. Then was the fight near, glory in battle. The time had come when fey men must fall there. 105 Clamour was raised there. Ravens circled, eagles, eager for carrion.note21 There was uproar on earth. From hands then they released file-hard spears; ground spears [,grim ones,] flew.note22 Bows were busy; shield took spear-point. 110 Bitter that battle-rush! Warriors fell; on either hand young men lay. Wounded was Wulfmaer, chose slaughter-bed, Byrhtnoth s kinsman; he was with swords, his sister-son, badly hewn. 115 There to the Vikings requital was given: I heard that Eadweard slew one fiercely with sword, withheld not its swinging, that at his feet a fey warrior fell; for that his lord thanked him, 120 his bower-thegn, when he could. So the stout-thinkers stood firm, young men at battle, eagerly vied who with spear-point soonest might in fey man life conquer there, 125 warrior with weapons. Slain fell on earth. Steadfast they stood. Byrhtnoth directed them, bade each young man think on the battle, who against Danes would win glory in fight. Then one strode, battle-hard, lifted his weapon, 130 his shield as defence, and against that man stepped. So the earl moved toward the churl: either to other evil intended. Then hurled the sea-warrior a southern spearnote23 so that wounded was warrior s lord. 135 He shoved then with shield so the shaft burst the spear broke and sprang back.

26 26 Enraged was that warrior: he with spear stung the proud Viking who gave him the wound. Wise was that fyrd-warriornote24: he let his spear wade 140 through the youth s neck, hand guided it, so that it reached life in the ravager. Then he another speedily shot so that the byrnie burst; he was wounded in breast through the ring-locked mail; in him at heart stood 145 poisoned point. The earl was the blither: the brave man laughed then, said thanks to Metodnote25 for the day-work God gave him. Then a certain warrior let a hand-dart fly from his hand, so that it went forth 150 through that noble, Ethelred s thegn. By his side stood an ungrown youth, a lad in the battle, who full valiantly drew from the man the bloody spear, Wulfstan s son, Wulfmaer the Young. 155 He let tempered shaft fare back again: the point sank in so he on earth lay who had his lord so grievously reached. An armed man then went to the earl: he wished to fetch wealth of that warrior 160 spoil and rings and adorned sword. Then Byrhtnoth drew his billnote26 from its sheath, broad and bright-edged, and struck against byrnie. Too quickly one of the seamen stopped him when he marred the earl s arm. 165 Then to the ground fell the fallow-hilt sword, nor could he hold hard blade, wield weapon. Then yet this word spoke that hoar battler, encouraged the young men, bade them go forth with good company. 170 He could not stand fast on foot any longer; he looked to the heavensnote27: I thank thee, Wielder of peoples, for all those joys I had in the world. Now have I, mild Measurer, most need 175 that you grant to my spirit goodness, that my soul may journey now to thee,