The Norman Conquest, 1065—1087

Edward the Confessor: Background

Edward was the son of Æthelred the Unready and Emma of Normandy. He spent much of his youth in exile in Normandy.

Edward the Confessor: Reign

Edward’s reign was marked by relative peace and stability, though it faced challenges including claims to the throne.

Edward the Confessor: Death

Died on January 5, 1066. His death was followed by a rush to secure the throne due to his lack of a direct heir.

Harold Godwinson: Early Life

Son of Godwin, Earl of Wessex, and one of the most powerful men in England. Married Edith, the daughter of Ælfgar, Earl of Mercia.

Harold Godwinson: Claim to the Throne

Claimed Edward promised him the throne on his deathbed. His claim was bolstered by his power and the support of the Witan (council of nobles).

Harold Godwinson: Battle of Hastings

Fought bravely but was killed, traditionally depicted by the Bayeux Tapestry as being struck in the eye.

William of Normandy: Background

Born William the Bastard, he was the illegitimate son of Duke Robert I of Normandy.

William of Normandy: Claim

Claimed that Edward had promised him the throne and that Harold had sworn an oath of allegiance to him in 1064 (though this claim is contested).

William of Normandy: Invasion

Led a well-organized invasion force with a strong naval component and landed at Pevensey in September 1066.

Harald Hardrada: Background

King of Norway known for his Viking raids and conquests.

Harald Hardrada: Claim

Claimed the English throne based on an agreement between his predecessor Magnus and Harthacnut of England.

Harald Hardrada: Invasion

Invaded England with Tostig Godwinson and was defeated at Stamford Bridge, ending the Viking era in England.

Edgar the Ætheling: Background

The son of Edward the Exile, who was the son of King Edmund Ironside, making Edgar a direct descendant of King Cnut.

Edgar the Ætheling: Proclaimed King

Briefly declared king after Harold’s death but lacked the resources and support to hold the throne against William.

Death of Edward the Confessor (January 1066)

Edward’s death led to a power struggle. Harold was hastily crowned king, but his claim was contested by both William of Normandy and Harald Hardrada.

The Battle of Stamford Bridge (September 25, 1066)

Harold’s army, which had been quickly mobilized from the south, faced Harald Hardrada’s Norwegian army and Tostig Godwinson’s forces. Harold’s army achieved a decisive victory, killing both Harald Hardrada and Tostig. This battle marked the end of significant Viking incursions into England.

The Battle of Hastings (October 14, 1066)

William’s forces included archers, infantry, and cavalry. Harold’s forces were mainly infantry and shield wall defenders. William used feigned retreats to lure Harold’s troops into vulnerable positions. The battle was intense and lasted all day. Harold was killed, and William’s victory paved the way for Norman control of England.

The Coronation of William the Conqueror (December 25, 1066)

William’s coronation in Westminster Abbey marked the formal establishment of Norman rule. Initial resistance was met with violence, including the harrying of the North, a brutal campaign to suppress uprisings and secure Norman control.

Consequences of the Norman Conquest: Feudal System

William distributed land to his supporters, displacing many Anglo-Saxon nobles. The system was hierarchical, with the king at the top, followed by barons, knights, and serfs. The system ensured that landowners owed military service and allegiance to the king, strengthening centralized control.

Consequences of the Norman Conquest: Changes in Governance

The introduction of Norman law and the replacement of English laws with those of the Normans. Sheriffs were appointed to oversee regions, collect taxes, and enforce the king’s will. The Great Council, composed of Norman barons and church leaders, played a crucial role in advising the king and making decisions.

Consequences of the Norman Conquest: Military Changes

Thousands of motte-and-bailey castles were built to assert control and deter rebellion. Notable examples include the Tower of London and Windsor Castle. The Normans introduced cavalry as a decisive force in battles. Their tactics, including the use of archers and mounted knights, were more advanced than those of the Anglo-Saxons.

Consequences of the Norman Conquest: Cultural Changes

Norman French became the language of the court and administration, influencing the development of Middle English. Romanesque architecture became prominent, seen in the construction of large churches and castles. The Normans brought changes to the social hierarchy, with a more pronounced division between the aristocracy and common people.

Feudal System: Hierarchy

King → Barons → Knights → Serfs.

Feudal System: Obligations

Land was granted in exchange for military service and other duties. Landowners had responsibilities to their lords and the king.

Domesday Book: Purpose

Created to assess landholdings and resources for taxation and administrative purposes.

Domesday Book: Content

Detailed records of land ownership, resources, and populations, providing a snapshot of England in 1086.

Domesday Book: Significance

It was one of the most comprehensive surveys of its time and remains a crucial historical document.

Motte and Bailey Castle: Motte

A raised earthwork or mound on which a wooden or stone keep was built.

Motte and Bailey Castle: Bailey

An enclosed courtyard surrounding the motte, often containing additional buildings and defenses.

Motte and Bailey Castle: Construction

These castles were quick to build and provided a strong defensive position, crucial for controlling newly acquired territories.

1065

Edward the Confessor’s death and the subsequent power struggle.

January 6, 1066

Harold Godwinson crowned King of England.

September 25, 1066

Battle of Stamford Bridge.

October 14, 1066

Battle of Hastings.

December 25, 1066

William the Conqueror crowned King of England.

1085

Commissioning of the Domesday Book.

1086

Completion and survey of the Domesday Book.

Historical Interpretations: Transformation

Emphasizes the significant changes in English governance, culture, and society brought about by the Conquest.

Historical Interpretations: Violence and Suppression

Highlights the harshness of Norman rule, including the brutal suppression of rebellions and displacement of the Anglo-Saxon elite.

Historical Interpretations: Advancements

Focuses on the administrative efficiency, architectural innovations, and the integration of Norman and Anglo-Saxon cultures.