...The Battle of Hastings Angelina Minton Professor Chris Sisson – World Culture I June 2, 2013 Abstract The purpose of this paper is to imagine myself as a figure in the Bayeux Tapestry and to write a first- person account in a letter home describing this historical event. In this paper I have described the event in detail and have explained why it was justified for us to raise arms in battle. To My Loving Mother Herleva, Let me start by saying I miss and love you and the family. Things have been very complicated since King Edward died without naming an heir to his throne. Edward's immediate predecessor was to be Harold of Wessex, a wealthy and influential English noble, who was chosen to be king by the Witenagemot of England. However, Harold was challenged by William who demanded that he had been promised the throne by King Edward and that Harold had confirmed this agreement. Harald III of Norway also disputed the succession. His right to the throne was founded on an arrangement between his predecessor Magnus I of Norway, and the earlier King of England Harthacanute, whereby if either died without heirs, the other would inherit both England and Norway. (Wilson, 1985) To add to this confusion Williams and Harald III both began assembling troops and ships for battle. Williams and I spent months preparing our army for battle and we waited for the right time to attack so that William could claim what was rightfully his. Mother you should have seen it...
Words: 1053 - Pages: 5
...The Battle Of Hastings The Battle of Hastings was a historic event that occurred on October 14, 1066 during the Norman Conquest of England (Hollister, Stacey, Stacey 126) . The battle was between the Norman-French army that was led by Duke William II of Normandy and the English army under King Harold II because they both believed that they were to succeed King Edward, the late king (Esteves 5-9). The Battle of Hastings is significant because it led to changes in “English law, language, and culture and laid the groundwork for the beginnings of the English feudal system”(Ericson par.1) It was significant because this war ended the Anglo-Saxon period that lasted about 600 years, and really established England is an independent power, under Norman Rule. It was the last time that England was ruled by a foreign power. When King Edward died, William and Harold both had reasons to why they thought they were next in line to take the throne (Esteves 5-9). William, who was the Duke of Normandy, was a cousin of Edward, who was the King of England. Edward died without children in the year of 1066 and supposedly named Harold his heir in the year of 1051(Hollister, Stacey, Stacey 118). The throne was then given to Harold Godwinson, but William claimed that before his death, Edward had promised him that he would be appointed the throne. William considered Harold’s crowning a declaration of war, and planned to fight for the throne that he thought was his. (Hollister, Stacey, Stacey 118,119)...
Words: 1097 - Pages: 5
...decision, and they had four candidates to choose from Edgar the Atheling, a sickly14 year old boy. Harold Godwinson, powerful noble in England, a good soldier and a gifted politician. William juke of Normandy, a distant cousin of Edward the Confessor, over the sea in France. Harald Hardrada, King of Norway and a direct descendant of the kings of England. He was related to King Canute, the King of England from 1016-1032. Harald Hardrada attempted to invade England, and once Harold Godwinson heard about this he gathered as many soldiers as he could and set off 187 miles north to where Harald Hardrada was at Stamford bridge. On September 25th 1066 the battle took place, It was a bloody battle and one in which Harold's army (the Saxons) broke through the Viking invaders front line to go on and win the battle. It was such a fierce battle that only twenty four of the three hundred ships, that came to England carry the 8,000 soldiers, returned to Norway. King Harold's celebrations of victory were cut short as news came of the impending Norman invasion and no-one was left along the south coast of England to stop them. The Saxon army raced back south to face the Norman invaders. William laid claim to the English throne after Edward died. He was a distant cousin of Edward and said that Edward had promised him the throne when visiting France in 1051. He even said his claim had been accepted by Harold Godwinson in 1064, when Harold had been blown onto the Norman shore by a storm. William...
Words: 794 - Pages: 4
...But William wanted to be king because both Edward and Harold had sworn an oath that he could be the future king, this could only mean one thing. War. Harold had prepared his army on the south coast when news came in that herald had already arrived in the north so the army had to march quickly up to the north to battle herald and his army. They had caught them unprepared and Harold had won within hours. Just as they started the long trek south they received news that William and his army had arrived and were terrorising towns and villages in the south coast. William wanted Harold’s men to have the disadvantage so he had assembled the largest army possible he had also started terrorising nearby houses and stealing from locales so that Harold’s army would rush back and be unprepared and exhausted by the time they got back. When Harold’s men finely arrived he charged as soon as possible, leaving them unprepared. He was a good leader and disciplined his solders well so he kept them in order. Harold made many mistakes in the battle, firstly, when coming back from the north he fell for Williams trick by coming back to quickly, a major mistake was that he went into battle as a foot solder so he could not make any orders or take control of his army, Therefore when Williams army faked retreats he couldn’t give orders to stop them running after them , breaking the...
Words: 485 - Pages: 2
...Why did William win the Battle of Hastings? William, Duke of Normandy, won the Battle of Hastings on the 14th of October 1066. One of the main reasons he achieved this was because he was very well prepared. In this essay I will explain further how William won the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Preparation William assembled a great army of armoured knights, soldiers and archers. He also had a huge amount of ships to carry his army over the English Channel. William used the very clever trick of retreating down the hill to make the English follow and lose their ground. After that, the Norman army quickly doubled back on themselves and surrounded and killed the helpless English. As well as all this, William had a store of the finest weapons in France. Leadership William was one of the bravest people of his time. When his army was having difficulties during the battle, he bravely led his army back up the hill to make another attack upon the English. Due to William's intelligence, he arranged his army in long rows, archers at the front to try and soften up the English's shield wall, footsoldiers in the middle, and the cavalry at the back for a big attack.The retreating trick explained in the above paragraph also shows great leadership. Luck Luckily for William, the wind changed direction in his favour on his journey north to England. When Harold had been fighting the Vikings in the north of England, some of his best troops were killed, giving...
Words: 377 - Pages: 2
...Bayeux Tapestry Experience Selena S. Harris HUM111 – Humanities 111 World Cultures I Dr. Larry Johnson February 18, 2012 Bayeux Tapestry Experience Dear Family, To write this letter home and hope it receives you in secret is one of the most frightful experiences ever, as I am not allowed to reveal the story I am about to tell. I know you’ve been wondering where I’ve been and have seen the embroidery of The Bayeux Tapestry. Surprisingly, I was an actual figure in this work of art and would like to express to you in detail the brief events that took place, my feelings, and elements of experience, and personal satisfaction of involvement. Hopefully this letter will provide to you a better understanding of what I endured and why. While working in the army of William, Duke of Normandy, I found that William laid claim to the English throne, in which Harold Godwinson took position (Invasion of England 1066, 1997, para. 2). It seems that Harold had a formal relationship with King Edward as his esteemed advisor (Invasion of England 1066, 1997, para. 2). Confusion arose in my mind wondering who the rightful heir of England’s throne is. Since I did not want to choose sides, and wanted to consider the facts, I found out that Harold’s claim to the throne was made stronger when King Edward supposedly uttered to Harold on his deathbed: “Into Harold’s hands I commit my kingdom” (Invasion of England 1066, 1997, para. 2). Whereas, William justified his claim by blood...
Words: 1405 - Pages: 6
...The Bayeux Tapestry Experience HUM 111 Dear Family, I’m writing to let you know that I’m alive and well, and that I will be home soon. The battle is over and we came out victorious. This journey that I’ve experienced has been exciting, scary and surreal all at the same time and I wanted to tell you all about it. The battle of Hastings has been the most memorable and successful battle that I’ve ever participated in as a Norman Solider. It was an honor to fight with Duke William for his right to be crowned king. This war all started back when King Edward the Confessor died on January 5, 1066 without an heir. He promised William the English throne before he died. However while on his deathbed King Edward apparently changed his mind and appointed by his will Harold of Wessex his successor instead. (Sayre, 2011)Williams considered himself rightfully the next King since he was promised the throne first. So once he heard the news he set out to gather himself an army. He seeked out the approval of the pope, and around the summer time he assembled an army of noblemen and adventures. He promised us land and titles under his new kingdom. There were around about 7,000 of us troops.(britishbattles.com) Months had gone by since we volunteered to go to war with the English Saxons and we had been working hard in preparing the ships to sail across the Chanel. The sounds of us assembling the ships filled the air. You could smell the fresh wood being cut to make the boards, and hear the...
Words: 942 - Pages: 4
...defeat by William of Normandy at the Battle of Hastings. Throughout 1066, not many problems occurred, but then in late September of that year, continuing into October, 3 battles all came at once and this was when Harold's leadership was tested. Further to this the events leading up to the Battle of Hastings were key in regards to Harold Godwinson, as well as the strength of Williams army. Harold's leadership was tested throughout 1066, but it's safe to say that in the early months of his reign, he did show strong leadership and led his men well. There is further evidence to show that Harold was a good leader at the Battle of Stamford Bridge. This battle begun because Harold Hardrada and Tostig landed with over 8000 Norwegians in the North of England, taking over York and declaring Harold Hardrada as King of England. On hearing of the invasion, Harold Godwinson, quickly gathered what men he could, the majority not being trained soldiers, and marched nearly 200 miles north to face him. The two armies met at Stamford Bridge, hence the name, and commenced into battle, Godwinsons men won the battle killing both Harold Hardrada and Tostig in the process. The Battle of Stamford Bridge shows Harold Godwinsons successful leadership as he managed quickly to gather troops and fight the invading army making it one of the most impressive victories for any Anglo-Saxon King. Harold Godwinsons poor leadership was demonstrated straight after the Battle of Stamford Bridge took place. Harold...
Words: 1156 - Pages: 5
...Professor Jacqueline Trussell Humanities 111 Nov 23 2014 Dear Family, I was just writing you to let you know that the Battle of Hastings is over and we will be able to come home soon, the enemy has been steadily retreating. My cause has been great and I believe I have been able to honor our family name. Let it be known that as a Norman soldier, the Battle of Hastings was one of the most successful and memorable battles that I ever participated in. Since I have volunteered for the war, we have spent the days working hard in the preparation of the ships we were going to be using to sail across the channel. It seemed like every day there were more and more soldiers arriving to help and fight for the cause. To keep the soldiers organized and working efficiently Duke William separated us into groups that would work on the ships, another group would work on weapons at the armory and another group would gather supplies needed for the journey and this battle. As the days past I became more anxious to go to battle, not sure if it was the smell of fresh cut wood or seeing the ships being built or seeing the magnificent weapons that were being crafted and stock piled. I know that the men I am with will fight to the death, we are a brotherhood of men. The soldiers who could afford it wore...
Words: 984 - Pages: 4
...1066 Leading up to the battle Seventeen kings ruled England, either by birth, military force or election by the Witan between 871 A.D and 1087 A.D. The definition of a king was difficult to define in those days. It was more a case of the dominant kingdom, such as Wessex, supplying the king or more accurately, the Bretwalda or overlord. Whilst kingdoms were always on a semi war footing with each other, it is a matter of conjecture who finally could be called the first "KING OF ENGLAND". Many historians consider Athelstan to be the first acknowledged true king of England. Wessex became the predominant Saxon kingdom in England. The southern Kingdom's power was such that thirteen kings from Alfred the Great to Harold II originated or had some affiliation with Wessex. The only diversion were the three Viking kings, Sweyn Forkbeard, Canute and Hardicanute and of course, William I (The Conqueror ) from Normandy. | It must be remembered that in the 10th and 11th centuries, most of Europe was much different to the way it is now. In those days most countries were operating on a feudal system. European countries were not always run as the king and his loyal subjects. Almost without exception, countries were divided up into regions or compartments that had their own ruling bodies and run by Dukes, Earls or Lords. To make matters worse they were usually at one another’s throats in the pursuit of power. The King of the country had little power over these areas or rulers. Normandy...
Words: 5138 - Pages: 21
...Bayeux Tapestry Experience Dear family, I hope you find this letter in the best spirit and health. I am writing you to inform you that I am still alive and that I have experienced some unpleasant situations. The Bayeux Tapestry was one of the most memorable and successful battles that I have ever participated in as a Norman soldier. The battle was fought between the strong Norman soldiers and the English soldiers. The battle of Hastings (a small town) saw the clash of two military systems. The Saxon army, centred on the King’s personal bodyguard of “housecarles”, comprised the universal levy, the “Fyrd”, led by the local leaders of each shire with their households. Thank god I am still alive. Most of my soldiers are dead or wounded. In the summer of 1066, I was a part of an army of noblemen and adventurers from across Northern France to invade England, promising lands and titles in the name of the new kingdom to my followers and obtaining the support of the Pope for the venture. I was a part of a fleet of around 1,000 vessels, designed in the style of the old Norse “Dragon Ships” (80 feet long; propelled by oars and a single sail), was built and assembled to convey the army across the Channel. We also had soldiers who could afford it wore leather jackets with steel chain or ring mail sewn into the leather and a conical helmet with a nose guard, carrying a spear, sword and the characteristic kite shaped shield. Archers in my army were armed with a short bow....
Words: 1129 - Pages: 5
... c) William Duke of Normandy 2. 2 battles: a) Battle of Stamford Bridge 25th September 1066 b) Battle of Hastings 14th Octuber 1066 3. 1 comet: Halley's comet The Norman conquest (from the norman point o view) It is 1064. In the Royal Palace of Westminster Edward the Confessor, King of England since 1042, is talking to his brother-in-law Harold, Earls of Wessex. After this Harold, holding a haek, makes for the south coast with his followers and hunting dogs. Harold's ship is driven across the channel, to Ponthieu, noth of Normandy, the territory of the fierce Count Guy. Harold is shown twice. At the left he stands on the ship, ready to land. As soon as he climbs ddown, he is seized by the soldiers of Count Guy, who directs operations from horseback. Harold, now a prisoner, is treated with respect; he rides in front, with his hawk, towards Beaurain, Guy's capital town. Guy sits on his throne and speaks with Harold. New is brought to William tha Guy has seized Harold. Guy obeys William's order and takes Harold to meet him. Guy ponts to Harold; both men carry their hawks. Harold accompanies William and the Norman soldiers as they set off to fight Duke Conan of Brittany. They pass Mont St. Michel, and they hace to cross the river. They hold their shields above their heads. Some soldiers sink into quicksand and Harold rescues them two at a time! The Normans catch up with Conan at Dinan. During the battle soldiers on horseback throw lances, and...
Words: 943 - Pages: 4
...Study Guide Questions for To Kill A Mockingbird 1.Explain what it means to be a southerner, according to Scout. Being a southerner according to Scout is being able to trace ones ancestry back to the time of the Battle Of Hastings which occurred in 1066. 2.Describe the town of Maycomb,Alabama. The town of Maycomb, Alabama can be best described as hot at least in the summer,Secondly it can be described as tired, old, poor, and in relative disrepair. 3.Describe Charles Baker Harris(Dill). Dill Can be described(as thus introduced) as an eager boy the age of seven, diminutive in size but not in intellect, and as relatively curious; He is also not a permanent resident to Maycomb but only a summertime visitor from Meridian. 4.What is spooky about the “Radley Place”? The primary thing that is queer about the Radley Place is it's occupancy by a character named “Boo” who is quite likely mentally challenged or insane as he stabbed his father in the leg once also the the home oozes a persona of unwelcomeness which is extremely strange in the south where it is odd to have one's doors or shutters closed on Sunday. 5.Describe Scout's first few days at school. Scout's first day at school goes very poorly,She gets scolded by the teacher and even disciplined for already knowing how to read write in cursive and explaining why the Cunninghams don't have money or lunch, she also whitnesses her teacher having a mini-breakdown and gets in trouble for...
Words: 265 - Pages: 2
...Bayeux Taprety Dear Family; It is with great pride to let you know that I have survived the Battle of Hastings. We were victorious but it was not an easy venture. We had a meeting about how the trip would be before leaving Normandy. They said that it would only be about 5 hours to get there, but turns out that it took us over 12 hours to reach England. We didn’t think when rushing to make these boats that it would be such a long trip. If we had known we would have built them so they were more stable. I saw Tim bend over on the side of his boat looking very ill. I think he may of got sick from something when smiting the weapons, but it could have just been from the water. He was so ready to fight he put on his uniform as soon as we got them. I on the other hand, decided to keep mine off until we got closer. I did not want to because the chainmail was so heavy and wanted to conserve my strength. The Sun was beaming off the water; it was too hot to have it on. I do wish I was on the Mora Ship. The ship is so elegant and a masterpiece that it is just a honor to be in a fleet with it. The ship has a Dragon figure on the prow and screams war. All the men on the boat knew this was not going to be an easy fight. The thing was we all understood what was right. King Harold stole the crown from King Duke. Harold and his lies will not be taken lightly. The cowardly Harold forgets that there were witnesses, like me. I heard him King Edward tell the room that William will be King...
Words: 1439 - Pages: 6
...successful encounters that I have joined in as Bishop Odo. Odo’s father was Herluin, Viscount of Conteville and Odo’s mother was Herleva whom was the mother of the Duke of Normandy. When he was only nineteen years old, William made him the Bishop of Bayeux where he built a cathedral there. He was the architect who commanded the Bayeux Tapestry. This 230-foot-long, 20-inch high embroidery was one of the most fascinating narratives commissioned by Odo. The entourage of Bishop Odo of Bayeux has successful entrepreneurs and talented scholars. It based on two groups of men who owed his triumph to his support: those who clenched the land from him in his earldom of Kent and persons whose legendary education he nurtured. At the Battle of Hastings, immediately after the English have prevented a cavalry charge, the Normans are pressured by this last cause as Odo twirled his marshal’s baton, reassuring his troops. He was high minded, very conquered with world insignificances, where the Spirit triumphed in him to good ends. There are others whose flesh overcame with the spirit of evil consequences. He accrued wealth by suspicious means. He also imparted it charitably on...
Words: 329 - Pages: 2
