The Normans Flashcards
Who were the main three competitors for the throne after Edward the Confessor died in 1066?
Harold Godwinson, Harald King of Norway and William Duke of Normandy.
Briefly explain Harold Godwinson’s claim to the throne.
The explain his reasons against being King.
He was the Earl of Wessex which made him very important, also his father had been key to Edward becoming king. He was also a brave soldier he crushed the welsh uprising and everyone wanted him as King. Even Edward himself had promised him the throne.
Edward and Harold had argued a lot even to the point where his family were banished.
Briefly explain Harald King of Norway’s claim to the throne.
The explain his reasons against being King.
Because of king Cnut Harald had inherited England in his birthright. Harald was very tough and enjoyed watching his enemy’s suffer. He also backed by other fierce Norwegian warriors who totally supported his claim.
He is not English and maybe could be feared to much. He is also planning a full scale invasion England.
Briefly explain William Duke of Normandy’s claim to the throne.
The explain his reasons against being King.
He was a fighter and Edwards cousin and his family had protected Edward from invaders and was very good friends with Edward.
However, like Harald he was not English and he had sent soldiers to reclaim the throne he is also a Viking descendant meaning he may be violent.
When was the battle of Hasting’s?
1066.
What does Golding think Harold Godwinson’s mistake was at Hasting’s?
Golding thinks Harold’s mistake was, not waiting for reinforcements. If he had brought in reinforcements then his army would have been stronger. Even if he had attempted a night attack this would have caught all of William’s men off guard, therefore being able to slaughter all his men.
Give one reason why William won The Battle of Hasting’s.
William won the battle of Hastings because of Harold’s Mistakes. Harold lost control of the shield wall allowing William to slaughter the Saxon forces that had broken free.
How else could William have won The Battle of Hasting’s?
Luck, good leadership and preparation.
How did Harold die? How reliable is the source by William of Jumiges?
According to William of Jumiges he was pierced by a spear cut down by a Norman knight hit in the eye then killed where he lay. I think this source is very reliable as it was made in 1070 only four years after his death and he was most likely there.
What problems did the Normans now face having just invaded England?
Farmer shortages, not speaking English, Rebellion, Hate from Saxons, not knowing the land, vulnerability, beleaguered troops, outnumbered, over confidence.
What kind of castles where introduced after 1066?
Motte and Bailey castles.
How is the feudal system organised?
- King
- Lords (Vassals to king)
- Knights (Vassals to lords)
- Peasants (Serfs)
How does the feudal system work?
It works by each layer giving something to the layer above.
When was the Harrowing of the North?
1069
What was life like for peasants in Anglo-Norman England?
The main role of medieval was farming this is because in sources we can most peasants farming.
