1-147-950 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

'Edward the Martyr Stabbed by Order of Elfrida', 978 AD, (1776). Edward (Eadward), king from 975, being offered a poisoned drink by his stepmother Aelfthryth at her home at Corfe Castle, Dorset. Edward was stabbed in the back and murdered whilst drinking the cup of poisoned mead. Aelfthryth desired her son, Ethelred, to become king. Considered a good Christian, Edward was canonised St Edward the Martyr in 1001. A plate from The Copper-Plate Magazine or A Monthly Treasure, London, 1776.