William Morris 
The House of the Wolfings 
A Tale of the House of the Wolfings and All the Kindreds of the Mark Written in Prose and in Verse

In ‘The House of the Wolfings’ by William Morris, the reader is thrust into a world of epic battles and heroic deeds as the Goths defend their land against invading Roman forces. Written in a poetic and archaic style reminiscent of the Old Norse sagas, Morris weaves a tale of valor and sacrifice that explores themes of honor, loyalty, and the clash of civilizations. The author’s use of rich language and descriptive imagery creates a vivid portrayal of ancient Northern Europe, immersing the reader in a fantastical realm where myth and history intertwine. The novel’s narrative structure and characters reflect Morris’s fascination with medieval literature and his desire to revive the traditions of the past. Through ‘The House of the Wolfings’, Morris not only entertains but also educates, shedding light on a lesser-known period of history and inspiring readers to delve deeper into the world of epic poetry and myth.

About the author

William Morris (1834–1896) was a multifaceted figure in the British artistic world, known for his work as a poet, novelist, translator, and influential designer. He is often associated with the British Arts and Crafts Movement, which he championed through his manifold endeavors to intertwine beauty and utility in everyday objects. A man of fervent socialist beliefs, Morris poured his political ideals into his creative works, aiming to reach the common man with messages of beauty and social reform. His foray into literary work included contributions to the fantasy genre. ‘The House of the Wolfings’, published in 1889, is one such noteworthy addition, where Morris weaves a rich tapestry of Norse saga-inspired mythos, storytelling, and an imaginative world reflecting his own aesthetic ideals and socialist principles. The novel was a precursor to high fantasy literature, influencing later giants like J.R.R. Tolkien. Morris’s narrative style in ‘The House of the Wolfings’, and indeed in his other prose romances, is marked by archaic language and a deep appreciation for medieval culture, which he believed held values of community and craftsmanship that modern society should aspire to reclaim. Morris’s legacy extends beyond literature into the visual arts and design, making him a Renaissance man in his own right and a significant cultural figure of the Victorian era.