# VII: Eric and Styrbiorn explained — Styrbiorn the Strong

> Chapter companion for Styrbiorn the Strong by E. R. Eddison.

## What happens

King Eric's three suspected bastards—Helgi, Thorgisl, and Thorir—plot against Styrbiorn, spreading rumors about his relationship with Queen Sigrid and his ambitions. Styrbiorn returns early from exile with a fleet, but the King tests his obedience. After a tense ball game where Styrbiorn humiliates Helgi, Styrbiorn decides to leave voluntarily, earning the King's approval. Thorgnyr and the King debate the wisdom of the King's handling of the situation.

## Themes in this chapter

### Power and Ambition

Styrbiorn's early return and the rumors of his desire to seize the throne drive the chapter's conflict.

### Loyalty and Betrayal

Helgi and his companions plot to betray Styrbiorn, while Thorgnyr remains loyal to the King.

### Kingship and Legitimacy

The question of who is the rightful heir—Styrbiorn or Olaf—underpins the scheming and the King's test.

## Character check-ins

### Styrbiorn the Strong

Returns early from exile with a fleet, plays ball aggressively, then voluntarily agrees to leave again.

### King Eric

Tests Styrbiorn's obedience by remaining aloof; ultimately approves of Styrbiorn's decision to leave.

### Thorgnyr Thorgnyrson

Lawman who refuses to spread rumors against Styrbiorn; debates the King's strategy.

### Helgi

One of King Eric's suspected bastards; plots against Styrbiorn and is humiliated in the ball game.

### Thorgisl

Another of the King's suspected bastards; participates in the plot against Styrbiorn.

### Thorir

Third of the King's suspected bastards; joins in the scheming against Styrbiorn.

### Queen Brynhild

Mentioned as carrying the infant Olaf; rumors link her to Styrbiorn.

### Earl Wolf

Observes the ball game and discusses the situation with Thorgnyr.

## Key lines

> There goeth one shall be King yet in our time.

That child will become king someday.

_Thorgisl predicts Olaf's future kingship._

> a foe's child is a wolf to cherish.

An enemy's child is dangerous to keep around.

_Helgi warns that Olaf is a threat to Styrbiorn._

> I was not wrong.

I maintain that I was correct.

_Thorgnyr insists his earlier judgment was right, despite the King's success._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/styrbiorn_the_strong_se/chapters/vii-eric-and-styrbiorn
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/styrbiorn_the_strong_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/styrbiorn_the_strong_se/chapters