Feuds and Sanctuaries
No ruler exercised undisputed authority throughout Ireland. Since the death of Máel Sechnaill mac Domnaill in 1022, the title and practical powers associated with the high-kingship had remained contested. Donnchad mac Briain, son of Brian Bóruma, ruled Munster and had claimed wider authority; an inscription commissioned for the shrine of the Stowe Missal styled him king of Ireland. His actual influence, however, depended upon alliances, hostages and military pressure, and varied considerably from region to region.