The reign of King Cnut is here reassessed in the light of modern advances in the application of numismatic, literary, documentary and onomastic evidence to historical studies. Demonstrating that 'national' histories must be placed in their European context, this collection of studies adopts both an interdisciplinary and an international approach to examine the figure of Cnut as ruler not only of England (1016-35) but also of Denmark and Norway.

How did Cnut's experience and obligations as king of one country influence his actions as ruler of others? Were his policies consistent or purely pragmatic? What were the economic and social effects of his rule? The studies in this collection serve to illuminate the various influences that operated on Cnut as king and also to explain some of his own actions in a fresh way.

It includes both studies of particular types of evidence (charters, coins, runic inscriptions, skaldic verse, relics, names) and of the political policies and events of his rule as overlord of different dominions. It aims not only to inform but also to stimulate further study.