The Norman Conquest
Subject Knowledge: Definitions
Subject Knowledge: Context
Subject Knowledge: Timeline of 1066
Subject Knowledge: The Battle of Hastings (1066)
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Subject Knowledge: Important People
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Subject Knowledge: The Impact of the Norman Conquest
- Social Hierarchy changed a lot under Norman rule, and primarily came from the introduction of feudalism. This saw the nobility and gentry given plots of land and people that they were responsible for. In return for somewhere to live amongst other things, citizens would work on the land and fight in battles, and it was the same principal for the gentry in relation to the King. It also so a more centralised form of government being introduced, with strong administration delegating and communicating laws and policies outwards across the country.
- Landscape changed dramatically during the Norman settlement. Castles were built in major towns were a Norman nobleman would then reside. Despite castles becoming synonymous with medieval England, there were none in existence prior to 1066. By 1087 more than 80 castles had been built and began a trend that lasted for hundreds of years to come. They also transformed the style of churches and cathedrals. The Normans brought new building styles to Britain transforming and modernising architecture across the country that would last until the modern day.
- Language and Culture also changed a lot, with the changing of languages from Old English to Latin, and it wasn't until the 14th century that (Middle) English became popular again. There was also a political shift away from Scandinavia and the Viking conquerors towards the Continent,, relationships changing continually with France. Mead halls were replaced by wine drinking, something that became a sign of aristocracy.
Teaching and Lesson Ideas
- On a map split England up into the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms and highlight on the map key geographic areas (Hastings, London etc...)
- Create a comic strip or modern day version of the Bayeux Tapestry documenting the events of the Battle of Hasting and/or Norman Conquest
- Look at the Bayeux Tapestry as a piece of evidence, and its historical reliability, ask students to compare to other sources (written or images, primary and secondary) to assess its significance and determine what makes a 'reliable' source.
- Split students into groups to research and create a campaign for William the Conqueror, Harold Godwinsson and Harald Hardrada to become King, either present information as a balloon debate or presentation.
- Using the map from the beginning of the topic, plot the route and key places in the battles of the Norman Conquest
- Design a poster advertising William's coronation, ask students to think about the Conquest and what positive things William can bring to England as King.
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