the style of building that was fashionable in Western Europe which recalled the power of the Roman Empire

a large oblong church that was round at one end; the interior had two rows of columns supporting the roof

Durham Cathedral and continuity and change in Norman England

History

In 'Norman England: how did William the Conqueror subdue England?', pupils learnt about the reaction of the Anglo-Saxons to Norman rule and how William consolidated his 1066 victories. In this unit, pupils will learn how their knowledge of Norman England can be applied to a specific historic environment linked to the Normans.

In this unit, pupils learn about the historical environment, choosing the relevant site study to complement their understanding of Norman England.

Historic environment (Norman England)

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce, poverty, deprivation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of violence or fighting, including threats of violence or the aftermath of violence.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Which word means a large oblong church that was round at one end?

Which word means the style of building that was fashionable in Western Europe and was favoured by the Normans?

Intricate floral patterns on every surface

What were some of the key architectural features of Durham Cathedral that reflect Norman Romanesque style?

It was constructed to replace all Anglo-Saxon churches across England.

It was built in a location chosen to represent the unity of England and Wales.

It functioned as a fortress and had an adjacent castle.

It focused on honouring Norman saints without reference to local traditions.

It housed the relics of Saint Cuthbert which honoured local traditions.

How did Durham Cathedral serve as a political and religious statement during the Norman period?

Emphasis on local folk traditions rather than papal reforms

Focus on secular governance and local political power

Encouragement of clerical marriages and relaxed monastic practices

Adoption of Gregorian Reforms, including stricter monastic discipline

What was one of the key aspects of Norman religious values as reflected in Durham Cathedral?

The implementation of Gregorian Reforms across Europe

William of Saint Calais introduced a new cathedral chapter.

The establishment of a Benedictine monastery at Durham

Durham Cathedral became a major centre of pilgrimage. 

The construction of Durham Cathedral stimulated the local economy.

Put the following events related to Durham Cathedral in chronological order.

Complete the sentence: Henry I imprisoned Ranulf Flambard in the Tower of London on charges of...

Which word means an area for which one bishop is directly responsible?

He favoured secular courts over Church courts for trials involving bishops.

He built many new churches to strengthen his relationship with the papacy.

He appointed bishops based on their relationship with him, not the Church.

He ordered the destruction of several important churches to show his power.

He appeared to be more interested in profiting from the Church than in religion.

Why did William II face conflict with the Church during his reign?

He was crowned king of England after the death of his father.

He was banished for his role in a rebellion in 1088.

He oversaw the final stages of Durham Cathedral construction.

He disapproved of the secular trial of bishops.

He began construction of Durham Cathedral in 1093.

Match each individual with their correct description.

He became a royal advisor and heir to King Henry I.

He led an invasion of England with Robert Curthose’s army.

He was appointed as the Archbishop of Canterbury by Henry I.

He helped establish new laws and founded churches in Normandy.

What did Ranulf Flambard’s do after his escape from the Tower of London?

Where was Ranulf Flambard buried upon his death in 1128?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision recommended

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Durham Cathedral and continuity and change in Norman England

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.