Walter was the uncle of King James I of Scotland. Historical records recount that Walter, also called Gauthier in French sources, murdered King James I in his bed during the night, with the intent to claim the throne. After the assassination, Walter was apprehended in Edinburgh and subjected to public execution. He was exposed on a pillar, and a crown of red-hot iron was placed on his head as punishment, with the inscription ‘The King of Traitors.’ An astrologer had foretold that he would be crowned publicly before the people, a prophecy fulfilled in this punitive manner. The event took place in 1437 and is documented in Scottish and French historical sources.
Walter
Creature Types: Other
Mythological/Cultural Origins: Medieval European, Scottish
Roles/Functions in Lore: Regicide, Usurper
Literary Sources/Traditions: Medieval Chronicles
Historical/Legendary Time Periods: Middle Ages (15th Century)
Attributes/Powers: Assassination, Usurpation
Alignments/Moral Standings: Malevolent
