Anglo-Saxon England and the Norman Conquest

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to Anglo-Saxon England and the Norman Conquest.

King

The ruler with the most powerful authority to make laws, protect the people, and control taxation.

Earldom

An area controlled by an earl.

Thegn

Local lords who lived in a manor house and provided men for the fyrd.

Peasants

The majority of the population who worked for their local lord, with free peasants referred to as ceorls.

Slaves

Individuals who made up 10% of the population and were seen as property.

Witan

A council of advisers to the king.

Danelaw

The legal system of part of England that followed Viking laws.

Fyrd

A military force composed of one man selected from every 5 hides.

Wergild

Compensation paid to the victim's family in case of a murder.

Bishop

A senior ecclesiastical leader who controlled large areas.

Tithing

A group of 10 households.

Hide

An area of land equivalent to 120 acres.

Bayeux Tapestry

Historic cloth depicting the events leading to the Norman conquest of England.

Harold Godwinson

Earl of Wessex who became king following Edward the Confessor's death.

Norman Conquest

The invasion and occupation of England by the Normans in 1066.

Edward the Confessor

King of England before the Norman Conquest; known for his piety.

Political marriage

Strategic alliances formed through marriage, such as that of Edith and Edward.

Housecarls

Fiercely loyal soldiers who served as elite infantry.

Battle of Stamford Bridge

A significant 1066 battle where Harold defeated the Vikings.

Battle of Hastings

The decisive battle in 1066 where William of Normandy defeated Harold Godwinson.