Brave, powerful, menacing, seductive, cunning, deceptive, and cruel. There are many ways one could describe Harald Hardrada (also known as Harald Sigurdsson). Viking and king are two other ways. Don Hollway, in his new book “The Last Viking: The True Story of Harald Hardrada,” has provided a vivid look into a complex man who lived at the top during complex times.
Hardrada’s life is that of fiction—mythological fiction, like a man who was a demi-god.
The Timeline of Hardrada
Hollway begins in A.D. 1030 when war and tragedy meet. During the Battle of Stiklestad, Harald’s brother, King Olaf II of Norway, is killed, and Harald is wounded and carried to safety. From there, he becomes a mercenary of sorts within the Varangian Guard in the Byzantine Empire where he serves to fight for the emperors, put down revolts, and protect the throne. He also finds time to become lovers with Empress Zoe and Emperor Constantine IX Monomacho’s lover, Maria Skleraina.
