Here are some of the main aspects of his life and legend:

• His death and legend: He was captured by King Aella of Northumbria, who threw him into a pit of snakes to die, according to some sources. ^{1 2 3 5} His sons avenged his death by invading England with a large army. ^{1 2 3 4 5} His legend continued to inspire later generations of Vikings and Scandinavians. ^{2 3 4 5}
• His sources and evidence: He is mainly mentioned in Icelandic sagas, written centuries after his supposed death, as well as some Danish and English documents that may or may not refer to the same person. ⁶ His historical existence is difficult to distinguish from legend in medieval European literature. ^{2 4}
• His legacy and influence: His children and descendants continued his conquests and achievements across Europe and beyond. ^{1 6 7} He challenged the authority and stability of the Christian kingdoms, and introduced new cultural and economic influences from the Viking world. ^{1 6 7} He also contributed to the spread of Norse religion, language, and art, and influenced other works of art and culture. ^{1 6}