As with many tragedies, our story opens in a moment of triumph.

— Dan Jones

Here was a king who saw his subjects as peers and allies around whom he had growing up rather than semi-alien entities to be suspected and persecuted.

— Dan Jones

He was more than comfortable with the language of imperious persuasion.

— Dan Jones

He wasn't an especially charismatic or commanding individual, but what he lacked in personality he emphatically made up for in diligence.

— Dan Jones

Much of the outward business of kingship came naturally.

— Dan Jones

The king's "only interest in government was a pious but simpleminded desire for replacement

— Dan Jones