The Battle of Hastings (1066)
I can describe what happened during the Battle of Hastings and how historians can use the Bayeux Tapestry.
The Battle of Hastings (1066)
I can describe what happened during the Battle of Hastings and how historians can use the Bayeux Tapestry.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- William of Normandy made thorough preparations for the Battle of Hastings.
- William of Normandy defeated Harold Godwinson at the Battle of Hastings.
- The Bayeux Tapestry is an important source for the study of the Battle of Hastings.
- Historians have to use the Bayeux Tapestry carefully when establishing what happened during the Battle of Hastings.
Keywords
Fyrd - a group of local, untrained soldiers called up to fight in Anglo-Saxon England
Shield wall - the defensive line of shields used by the Anglo-Saxon army
Infantry - foot soldiers
Cavalry - soldiers on horseback
Common misconception
That the Bayeux Tapestry is a 'biased' source and therefore not useful to historians.
Although all sources were produced in a particular context, historians can ask careful questions of them to learn about the past.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
England
Norway
Normandy
A situation in which there is no clear heir to the throne
A person who expects to inherit something
A male ruler of a country who inherits his position by birth
A seat used by a king or queen
Exit quiz
6 Questions
local, untrained Anglo-Saxons who were called up to fight
the defensive line of shields used by Anglo-Saxon armies
foot soldiers
soldiers on horseback
