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.
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