 |
Duncan IKing of Strathclyde from 1018, King of Alba
Date of Birth: 01.01.1001
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Early Life and Accession
- The Unification of Scotland
- The Conflict with Macbeth
- Duncan's ill-Fated Reign
- Shakespeare's Inspiration
- Personal Life
- - Malcolm III Canmore, King of Scotland from 1058
Early Life and Accession
Duncan I, born to Crínán of Dunkeld and Bethóc, daughter of King Malcolm II of Scotland, ascended to the throne of Strathclyde in 1018. Upon Malcolm II's death in 1034, Duncan inherited the Scottish Crown, bridging the two kingdoms.
The Unification of Scotland
Duncan's reign marked a significant expansion of Scottish territory. The kingdom, previously confined to the Forth and Pentland Hills, now extended to the Solway Firth and River Tweed. However, Strathclyde still included lands south of the Sark, while Norwegians controlled the northern provinces and parts of Argyll.
The Conflict with Macbeth
Traditionally, the throne alternated between two royal lineages. The rightful heir was Lulach, son of Gruoch and a descendant of Kenneth III. However, Duncan I's claim prevailed due to Lulach's youth and lack of intelligence.
Macbeth, Gruoch's second husband and Duncan's cousin, harbored resentment against his stepson. As a skilled and ambitious warrior, he posed a formidable threat to Duncan's reign.
Duncan's ill-Fated Reign
Duncan's reign faced setbacks on multiple fronts. He alienated his cousin Earl Thorfinn of Orkney, lost support in England, and failed to conquer England after King Canute's death. In 1040, Macbeth avenged his brother-in-law by killing Duncan at the Battle of Bothgowanan.
Shakespeare's Inspiration
Duncan's life and reign inspired William Shakespeare's play "Macbeth."
Personal Life
Duncan I married Sibylla, possibly the daughter of Earl Siward of Northumbria. Their children included:
- Malcolm III Canmore, King of Scotland from 1058
- Donald III Ban, King of Scotland from 1093- Melmar, ancestor of the Earls of Atholl
