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Wulnoth the Wanderer: A Story of King Alfred of England

Written by Herbert Inman

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Alfred, King of England, 849-899

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About this book

"Wulnoth the Wanderer: A Story of King Alfred of England" by Herbert Inman is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the adventures of Wulnoth, a thrall child, as he navigates the trials and tribulations during the time of King Alfred of England. The narrative intertwines themes of friendship, loyalty, and heroism against the backdrop of Viking invasions and Saxon struggles for survival. The opening of the story introduces King Hardacnute of Norway and his family, establishing their precarious kingdom. Concurrently, Wyborga the Wise foretells significant upheaval that will affect both the king and the young Prince Guthred. Amidst these troubles, Wulnoth, the son of a thrall, arrives on the scene when he and his parents seek refuge from their oppressor, Berwulf the Viking. Wulnoth forms a strong bond with Prince Guthred, leading to adventures that promise courage and destiny. As the tale unfolds, Wulnoth's journey of self-discovery and heroism begins to take shape, setting the stage for a tale of valor and camaraderie.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Wulnoth the Wanderer: A Story of King Alfred of England, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • Adventurous
  • Historical
  • Inspiring

Herbert Inman's "Wulnoth the Wanderer" is an early 20th-century historical novel set against the tumultuous backdrop of King Alfred's England during the Viking invasions. The story follows Wulnoth, a young thrall, whose life takes a dramatic turn after his family seeks refuge from the oppressive Viking, Berwulf. Prophecies of upheaval from Wyborga the Wise intertwine Wulnoth's destiny with that of Prince Guthred of Norway and the fate of King Hardacnute's precarious kingdom. As Wulnoth forges an unbreakable bond with Prince Guthred, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, courage, and loyalty, ultimately rising above his humble origins to become a vital figure in the Saxon struggle for survival and a testament to the power of friendship and heroism.

“"The threads of fate are spun long before we see their pattern, and even a thrall's son may find himself woven into the tapestry of kings."”

Key themes

Friendship and Loyalty
The bond between Wulnoth and Prince Guthred forms the emotional core of the novel, transcending social barriers. Their loyalty to each other, and Wulnoth's eventual loyalty to King Alfred and the Saxon cause, is portrayed as a powerful force for good, critical for survival and victory in a tumultuous world.
Heroism and Valor
The novel extensively explores what it means to be a hero, particularly through Wulnoth's transformation from a vulnerable thrall to a courageous warrior. Heroism is depicted not just through physical bravery in battle but also through moral strength, self-sacrifice, and the willingness to stand up against injustice.
Destiny vs. Free Will
Introduced by Wyborga's prophecies, the narrative grapples with the idea that certain individuals are destined for greatness or specific roles. However, Wulnoth's journey also emphasizes the importance of his choices, actions, and character in fulfilling that destiny, suggesting a dynamic interplay between fate and personal agency.

Worth discussing

How does Inman portray the concept of 'destiny' through Wulnoth's journey and Wyborga's prophecies? Is Wulnoth's heroism preordained or a result of his choices?

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