AI Image - An illustration of King Canute commanding the incoming tide to halt, early 11th century, (2023). Canute (died 1035 CE) was King of England from 1016, Denmark from 1018 and Norway from 1030. The story of Canute and the tide is an apocryphal anecdote illustrating his piety or humility. In the story, Canute demonstrates to his flattering courtiers that he has no control over the elements (the incoming tide), explaining that secular power is vain compared to the supreme power of God.