3 Review(s)

The King's Mirror (Speculum regale or Konungs skuggsja) is a 13th-century Old Norse text originally written in Iceland by King Hákon Hákonsson's advisor, likely intended as a guide for medieval kings. Translated into English by Laurence Marcellus Larson, the text serves as a mix of political philosophy, practical advice, and moral instruction for rulers. It explores themes of governance, leadership, and the moral obligations of a king toward his subjects and kingdom.The text is structured as a dialogue or treatise, offering advice on everything from maintaining peace, enforcing justice, and ensuring the welfare of one's subjects to making wise decisions in times of war and political strife. The King's Mirror reflects both practical governance and ethical leadership, incorporating Christian values, Viking traditions, and medieval concepts of law and order.