canute's nemesis crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "canute's nemesis crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers and helpful explanations to get you unstuck and improve your crossword-solving skills. Dive into the famous legend and find your perfect fit below.

Solutions for "canute's nemesis crossword clue" by Letter Count

3 Letters

SEA: This refers to the vast body of water King Canute famously confronted, representing the uncontrollable force of nature.

4 Letters

TIDE: The most direct answer, as the legend explicitly describes Canute's futile attempt to command the incoming tide, making it his symbolic "nemesis."

FATE: A more abstract interpretation, suggesting that Canute's nemesis was the inevitable course of events or destiny, which no human can control.

5 Letters

WAVES: A common feature of the sea, often used interchangeably with the tide's movement, which Canute tried and failed to control.

More About "canute's nemesis crossword clue"

The crossword clue "Canute's nemesis" refers to one of the most enduring anecdotes about King Canute the Great, a powerful Viking king who ruled England, Denmark, and Norway in the 11th century. The story, often recounted to illustrate the king's humility or wisdom, describes him placing his throne by the seashore and commanding the incoming tide to retreat. Of course, the tide ignored his command and continued to rise, soaking his feet and robes.

This legendary act served to demonstrate to his overly flattering courtiers that even a king as mighty as Canute had limits to his power and that earthly dominion did not extend to the immutable laws of nature. In this context, the "nemesis" isn't a personal enemy but rather the unstoppable, indifferent force of nature itself, most aptly represented by the sea or, more specifically, the tide.

Understanding the historical or legendary context of clues like this is often key to solving them in crosswords. It's a classic example of a clue that tests general knowledge beyond just vocabulary, delving into historical anecdotes and metaphorical interpretations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the famous story behind Canute and the tide?

King Canute, a powerful Viking king, allegedly set his throne by the seashore and commanded the incoming tide to halt, demonstrating to his sycophantic courtiers that even a king's power is limited and cannot control the forces of nature.

Why is 'TIDE' a common crossword answer for Canute's nemesis?

'TIDE' is the most accurate answer because the legend specifically features Canute attempting to command the 'tide' to retreat, making it the direct natural force that defied his will, hence his 'nemesis' in the context of the story.

Are there other historical figures often appearing in crossword clues?

Yes, crosswords frequently feature historical figures, mythological characters, and literary references. Examples include figures like Caesar, Nero, Zeus, Odin, and fictional characters like Sherlock or Hamlet, often testing solvers' general knowledge.