Edith of Wessex Family Tree & Biography (1025-1075)

 

Edith of Wessex was a member of the House of Wessex. She was the daughter of Earl Godwin of Wessex the wife of King Edward the Confessor, and the sister of King Harold Godwinson.

Contents

Edith of Wessex Family Tree Image
Edith of Wessex Family Tree in Table Form
Edith of Wessex Short Biography

 

Edith of Wessex Family Tree Image showing:

grandparents, parents, siblings and husband

 

Edith of Wessex Family Tree in Table Form showing:

grandparents, parents, siblings and husband

 

 

Edith of Wessex Short Biography

Edith of Wessex was born in 1025, the daughter of Earl Godwin of Wessex and Gytha Thorkelsdottir. Earl Godwin rose in status during the reigns of King Canute and Harold Harefoot.

When Edward the Confessor became King in 1042, he was a virtual stranger to England having lived in Normandy since 1016. Earl Godwin offered his support and in 1045 Edith married King Edward. The couple did not have children. 

When Edward died in January 1066 Edith’s brother Harold became King. However, his reign was short-lived. Harald Hardrada, supported by Edith and Harold’s exiled brother Tostig invaded in September 1066. They were defeated and both killed at the Battle of Stamford Bridge. The following month, Edith’s brothers Harold, Gyrth and Leofwine were all killed at the Battle of Hastings. 

Edith was the only surviving member of the Godwin family to remain in England following the Norman Conquest. She died at Winchester on 18th December 1075.

 

Published Jun 26, 2022  – Updated – Dec 4 2024