Historical Roots: Danish Rule and Anglo-Saxon Turmoil
To understand the background of Havelok’s legend, one must look at the Anglo-Danish relationship during the early Middle Ages. From the late 8th century onwards, Viking raids and subsequent settlements had profound impacts on England. The Danelaw, an area of England under Danish control, emerged in the 9th century and became a stage for cultural and political mingling.
Though there is no historical evidence for a king named Havelok ruling Denmark or England, his story may reflect the real dynastic struggles and power transfers during this volatile period. It evokes the era of Cnut the Great, a Danish prince who became King of England in 1016 and established a North Sea Empire. The themes of rightful kingship, exile, and restoration found in Havelok’s tale were central to the political drama of 10th–11th century England and Denmark.
The Romance of Havelok the Dane
The most famous version of the legend survives in a Middle English romance poem titled Havelok the Dane, written around the late 13th century, likely in the East Midlands. This version is based on earlier Anglo-Norman versions such as Le Lai d’Haveloc, and potentially older oral traditions.
Plot Summary
The tale begins in Denmark with the death of King Birkabeyn, who leaves behind his son, Havelok, and two daughters. The treacherous regent, Godard, usurps the throne, imprisons the royal children, and plots Havelok’s murder. A fisherman named Grim, ordered to drown the child, is moved by compassion and raises Havelok as his own in England, in the town of Grimsby (a name linked to the tale).
Meanwhile, in England, a similar usurpation takes place. The rightful heiress, Goldeboru, daughter of King Athelwold, is denied her inheritance by the villainous regent Godrich. Later, Havelok and Goldeboru are brought together — Havelok is forced to marry her as part of Godrich’s cruel plan. But as Havelok matures, his kingly nature and divine favor (often depicted through a miraculous light shining from his mouth as he sleeps) become evident. With strength and righteousness, Havelok defeats his enemies, reclaims the Danish throne, and restores Goldeboru’s rights in England. The tale ends with the two ruling their respective kingdoms in peace and prosperity. shutdown123