@mcgillmd921 Vespasian was a down to earth, effective ruler with a self-deprecating sense of humor. As he died, he mocked the deification of emperors with, "I believe I'm turning into a god."
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Β· 9hBruce ByfieldΒ @byfield.bsky.social
My mistakes as a new novelist:
*prioritizing atmosphere over plot & character
*a slow start
*never killing Darlings
*mediocre comps *
querying too soon
I've learned but maybe too late. I'll keep trying all the same.
@gshorebeach@YouReNoob4@wordsaladjones@_ghost_____@romanhelmetguy I've done small Old English translations. While doing so, I've looked at other translations. I've noticed that all most all use the same literal, obvious words. Often, that obscures the overall meaning. So Wilson's claims are at least plausible to me.
@KyleLeeWriter It can be useful to know more than you tell readers about your world. Sometimes, that secret knowledge lets you discover unique plot elements.
@DoriJeanDill Prologues that are info dumps should be avoided in the modern market. Pronouns about events that influence the main story can usually work.
@Medievalhtybuff However, even if Edward did promise William the throne, technically the decision was the witan's, not his. A strong king could probably enforce his will against the witan, but Edward was a weak one. And Godwins probably dominated the witan.
@Medievalhtybuff On one hand, Edward had Norman feelings, but England wouldn't easily welcome a Norman king. His reign was propped up by Godwin's family, but at least early in his reign, he resented how much they controlled him. So he might have flip-flopped about the succession.
@Medievalhtybuff Harold Godwinson signed himself "sub-regulus," which sounds like he was Edward's assistance. He was a proven leader in war, and had the support of his influential family, including his sister, the Dowager Queen. These credentials made him the prime candidate.