Sabaton’s “Berserker” tells the story of the lone Norse warrior said to have held Stamford Bridge in 1066.
Lyrics of Berserker by Sabaton
Read the official lyrics on Sabaton.net.
Historical background
In September 1066, King Harald Hardrada of Norway invaded England with the support of Tostig Godwinson, the brother of the English king. After their victory at Fulford near York, King Harold Godwinson marched north and surprised them at Stamford Bridge on 25 September. Both Hardrada and Tostig died in the battle.
The song focuses on a story about a single Norse fighter who held up the English advance on the bridge. In the traditional account, he was eventually struck from below with a spear. The episode survives as a legend of the battle, and the warrior’s name is unknown.
Harold’s victory ended the Norwegian invasion. Less than three weeks later, he met William of Normandy at Hastings, where he lost both the battle and his life.
