Æthelwald, Ealdorman of East Anglia facts for kids
Æthelwald (died 963) was an important leader, known as an ealdorman, in East Anglia during the 10th century. An ealdorman was like a powerful governor or regional ruler in Anglo-Saxon England. He is mentioned in a book about the life of Oswald of Worcester, along with other members of his family.
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Æthelwald: A Powerful Ealdorman
Æthelwald was likely the oldest son of a very influential man named Æthelstan Half-King. In 956, his father became a monk at Glastonbury Abbey, and Æthelwald took over some of his father's important roles. He was a strong supporter of the Benedictine reform movement, which aimed to improve monasteries and religious life. This movement gained strength during the time of King Edgar. Æthelwald also gave money and support to Ramsey Abbey, a famous monastery.
The Story of Ælfthryth
Æthelwald was the first husband of Ælfthryth. After Æthelwald's death, Ælfthryth married King Edgar. A much later story, written by William of Malmesbury, tells a dramatic tale about Æthelwald's marriage and death.
According to this story, King Edgar heard that Ordgar's daughter, Ælfthryth, was incredibly beautiful. Edgar, who was looking for a queen, sent Æthelwald to meet her. He told Æthelwald to propose marriage to Ælfthryth on his behalf if her beauty was truly as great as people said.
When Æthelwald met Ælfthryth, he found her to be just as beautiful as everyone described. The story claims he decided to marry her himself instead of telling the king the truth. He then reported back to Edgar that she was not suitable to be queen.
Eventually, King Edgar found out about this. The story says Edgar decided to visit Ælfthryth himself. This made Æthelwald very worried. He asked Ælfthryth to try to look as unattractive as possible for the king's visit. However, she did the opposite and made herself look even more beautiful. The story concludes that Edgar was very impressed by her and that Æthelwald died during a hunt.
His Death and Legacy
Historians like Edward Augustus Freeman have suggested that the story of Æthelwald's death at Edgar's hands is more of a romantic tale than a true historical event. However, others, like William Henry Hudson, have argued against this view.
It seems Æthelwald died around 962 or 963, as his name stops appearing on official documents (called charters) around that time. He was buried at Ramsey Abbey. His younger brother, Æthelwine, took over his important positions after his death.
A special monument, called the Dead Man's Plack, was put up in Longparish, Hampshire, in 1825. It marks the spot where the old story says Æthelwald died.
Images for kids
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The Dead Man's Plack monument, erected in 1825, marking the supposed spot where King Edgar killed Æthelwald
