Wulfnoth Godwinson
1040-1094
House: Wessex
Wulfnoth Godwinson, born in 1040, was the youngest brother of King Harold II of England and the sixth son of Earl Godwin of Wessex. As a child, he was given as a hostage to Edward the Confessor in 1051 to ensure his father's loyalty during a political confrontation. Following the return of Godwin with an army, Wulfnoth was taken to Normandy by Archbishop Robert of Jumièges and handed over to Duke William of Normandy.
In 1064 or 1065, Harold Godwinson traveled to Normandy, possibly to negotiate Wulfnoth's release, but was unsuccessful. After William's conquest of England in 1066, Wulfnoth remained in captivity, possibly as a safeguard against the Godwinson family's influence. Wulfnoth was not released until 1087, shortly before William's death, and was soon re-imprisoned by King William II Rufus.
Wulfnoth Godwinson died in 1094 while still a prisoner in Winchester. There is no record of him having any children.
Notable events
- 1040Born as the youngest brother of King Harold II of England.
- 1051Given as a hostage to Edward the Confessor to ensure Earl Godwin's loyalty.
- 1052Taken to Normandy by Archbishop Robert of Jumièges.
- 1064 or 1065Harold Godwinson traveled to Normandy, possibly to negotiate Wulfnoth's release.
- 1066William of Normandy conquered England, but Wulfnoth remained in captivity.
- 1087Released from captivity by the dying King William I in an amnesty.
- 1087Re-imprisoned by King William II Rufus shortly after release.
- 1094Died in captivity in Winchester.
Other details
Death: Died in 1094 at the age of 54 in captivity in Winchester.
Children: 0
Parents: Earl Godwin of Wessex, unknown