Cnut the Great, also known as Canute, was a king of Denmark, England, Norway, and parts of Sweden, whose reign spanned from 1016 to 1035 AD.

His rule marks one of the most potent examples of North Sea Empire unity, showcasing a period where the cultures and interests of Scandinavia and the British Isles were intertwined under a single ruler.

In this article, World History Edu delves into the life and major accomplishments of Cnut the Great, exploring his rise to power, his administration, military exploits, and his legacy.

Early Life and Rise to Power

Cnut was born circa 990 AD, the son of Sweyn Forkbeard, the King of Denmark, and Swietoslawa (Gunhilda), the daughter of Mieszko I of Poland. His upbringing was that of a typical Viking noble, steeped in warfare, navigation, and the management of lands.

Cnut’s rise to prominence began in earnest when he accompanied his father on an invasion of England in 1013. Sweyn Forkbeard’s successful campaign led to his brief reign as King of England, though he died in February 1014. Cnut, at a relatively young age, was left to secure his father’s achievements.

The Danish nobles initially elected Harald II as king of Denmark, which forced Cnut to focus on England where he had to contend with the Anglo-Saxon king, Æthelred the Unready, and later Æthelred’s son, Edmund Ironside.

In 1015, Cnut launched his own invasion of England. After a series of grueling campaigns, and the pivotal deaths of Æthelred and Edmund in 1016, Cnut secured the English throne, marking the beginning of his North Sea Empire.

Consolidation of Power and Administration

As king, Cnut demonstrated notable administrative acumen, uniting Danish and English systems of governance in innovative ways.

He retained many of the existing Anglo-Saxon institutions, such as the Witenagemot—a council of advisors—and utilized them to administer his realm effectively. This approach not only appeased the Anglo-Saxon population but also stabilized his rule.

Cnut’s legal reforms included the issuance of laws that further integrated Danish and English legal traditions, promoting peace and cooperation between the two cultures.

Cnut’s reign in England was characterized by a sophisticated use of wealth and patronage. He reinstated the system of tax known as Danegeld, a tax levied to fund defense expenses against Viking raiders, which he cleverly used to pay his standing army, the huscarls, thus securing his military dominance in the region.

Military Exploits and Expansion

Cnut was not just a wise ruler; he was also a formidable warrior. His military campaigns extended beyond England. In 1028, he turned his attention to Norway, where he sought to assert control.

By defeating King Olaf II, Cnut added Norway to his empire, though this conquest proved to be the most troublesome to maintain. His influence extended to parts of Sweden, and by the peak of his reign, Cnut’s empire included Denmark, England, Norway, and some territories in Sweden.

Religious Affairs and Pilgrimage

Cnut’s reign also had significant religious implications. Initially a pagan, Cnut converted to Christianity and became a fervent supporter of the Church.

His pilgrimage to Rome in 1027 was a pivotal event, during which he secured favorable terms for his subjects on matters of the church and secured a reduction in the fees English pilgrims had to pay.

This pilgrimage also allowed him to foster relations with other European leaders and the papacy, enhancing his stature as a Christian king.

Did you know…?

Medieval historian Norman Cantor praised Cnut, describing him as “the most effective king in Anglo-Saxon history” due to his successful unification and management of the North Sea Empire, which included England, Denmark, and Norway.

Death and Legacy of Cnut the Great

Cnut died in 1035, leaving behind a legacy of a well-administered, powerful, and religiously unified realm. His sons, Harold Harefoot and Harthacnut, succeeded him but failed to maintain the unity of his empire.

Despite this, Cnut’s reign is often remembered for its effective governance, successful military campaigns, and the ability to balance the diverse cultural aspects of his vast empire.

The Legend of King Canute and the tide

King Cnut the Great is often associated with the legendary tale of King Canute and the tide, a story that serves as a moral lesson on the limits of royal power and human hubris.

According to the legend, Cnut, in order to demonstrate to his flattering courtiers the limits of his authority and the supremacy of divine power, ordered his throne to be placed on the seashore as the tide was coming in. Cnut then commanded the incoming tide to halt and not wet his robes.

However, the tide continued to rise as usual, drenching the king’s feet and legs, thereby showing even a king’s commands could not control the forces of nature.

This story, though likely apocryphal, underscores the medieval belief in the divine right of kings, while at the same time emphasizing that even monarchs are subject to the laws of God and nature.

It reflects Cnut’s wisdom in recognizing his own limitations and serves as a rebuke to the sycophancy of courtiers.

Over time, the tale has been popularized as an illustration of the folly of attempting to stop the inevitable, and it is used to teach the virtue of humility. The story also enhances the historical view of Cnut as a wise and pragmatic ruler, aware of the bounds of his own power.

Questions and Answers about King Cnut the Great

Who were the only two English kings bestowed with the title “the Great”?

The two kings are King Alfred of Wessex and King Cnut (Canute) the Great. Alfred was known for defending his kingdom against Viking invasions and beginning the process of unifying England, while Cnut, a Dane, ruled not only England but also Denmark and Norway during his lifetime.

What was Cnut’s lineage, and how did he come to power in England?

Cnut was the son of Sweyn Forkbeard, the King of Denmark. He joined his father in the successful invasion of England in 1013. Following his father’s death in 1014, Cnut was eventually crowned king of England in 1016 after initially being rejected by English nobles in favor of the reinstated Ethelred II.

How was Cnut’s physical appearance like, according to historical records?

According to the “Canute linga saga,” Cnut was exceptionally tall, strong, and good-looking, with a thin and quite hooked nose. He had a fair complexion, fine thick hair, and his eyes were described as both more beautiful and sharper than those of other men.

What significant changes did Cnut implement in England upon becoming king?

As king, Cnut blended the institutions of the English and Danish, treating the peoples equally and partitioning England into four great counties: Wessex, Mercia, East Anglia, and Northumbria. He established a system of territorial lordships that would influence English governance for centuries.

How did Cnut maintain his rule over the North Sea, and what were some of his initial policies?

Cnut maintained his rule through a combination of strategic marriages, military strength, and stern governance, including executions and exiles. Initially, he employed harsh measures to stabilize his position, but over time he adopted a less severe approach and incorporated more Saxons into positions of power.

The story of King Canute and the tide

What role did Christianity play in Cnut’s reign?

Christianity was a central aspect of Cnut’s rule. He converted to Christianity, became a significant patron of the church, and was recognized by the pope as the first Viking king to become a Christian.

His pilgrimage to Rome underscored his dedication to his faith and his commitment to rule with mercy and justice.

What military achievements did Cnut accomplish during his reign?

Cnut successfully conquered Norway with a fleet from England, establishing his rule over a vast empire around the North Sea. He also managed to secure peace with Scotland during his reign, with Malcolm, the second king of Scots, recognizing Cnut as a suzerain.

How long did Cnut rule England, and how did his reign impact the country?

Cnut ruled England for 19 years, from 1016 to 1035. His leadership helped restore prosperity to England, protected it against Viking invaders, and strengthened its position within Scandinavia.

Where was Cnut buried, and who succeeded him after his death?

Cnut died on November 12, 1035, and was buried in Winchester. He was succeeded by his son Harthacnut in Denmark (also known as Cnut III) and another son, Harold Harefoot, in England, who ruled until his death in 1040.

Who were King Cnut’s spouses and children?

King Cnut the Great had two known spouses and several children from these marriages, each of whom played significant roles in the political landscape of the time.

Spouses

1. Ælfgifu of Northampton – Cnut’s first wife was Ælfgifu of Northampton, daughter of the English nobleman Ælfhelm of York. Their marriage was likely a strategic alliance during his early efforts to consolidate power in England. Ælfgifu served as regent in Norway for Cnut from 1030 to 1035.
2. Emma of Normandy – After securing his rule in England, Cnut married Emma of Normandy in 1017. Emma was the widow of Æthelred the Unready, the previous king of England, and the daughter of Richard I, Duke of Normandy. This marriage helped Cnut solidify his rule over England and assert his legitimacy. Emma also brought a connection to the influential Norman rulers, which was beneficial for Cnut’s broader political ambitions.

Children

Children with Ælfgifu of Northampton:

• Sweyn Knutsson – Sweyn was made the King of Norway but faced significant opposition and was eventually driven out by the supporters of the former king, Olaf II.
• Harold Harefoot – Harold succeeded Cnut as King of England in 1035 and ruled until his death in 1040. His reign was marked by his struggle against his half-brother Harthacnut for the throne.

Children with Emma of Normandy:

• Harthacnut – Harthacnut succeeded his half-brother Harold as King of England in 1040 and ruled until his own death in 1042. He also ruled as King of Denmark, succeeding Cnut.
• Gunhilda of Denmark – Gunhilda married the Holy Roman Emperor Henry III and was known for her beauty and piety. Her marriage was part of a broader diplomatic alliance.

How is Cnut remembered in history, and why is he considered one of the greatest Viking kings to rule in England?

Cnut is remembered as a formidable ruler who managed a vast empire, effectively integrated different cultures under his rule, and supported the Christian Church. His successful governance, military prowess, and diplomatic skills make him one of the greatest Viking kings to have ruled England.