The use and abuse of hostages in later Anglo-Saxon England
Ryan Lavelle
This paper explores the use of hostages in political relations Anglo-Saxon England, often between different ethnic groups. Although much evidence relates to ninth century when were used as a means guaranteeing peace agreements made King Alfred and his Viking adversaries, consideration will be given here broader context late period. The discusses whether significance these arrangements lay their projection imperial power or practicality crude tool whose effectiveness maintaining an agreement tangible threat. Both aspects hostageship are examined, especially with regard peacemaking, extent which it could successful, why.
Early Medieval Europe