Key learning points

1. The Norman aristocracy brought with them a distinct warrior culture which included castles and chivalry.
2. The Norman aristocracy viewed their simple and pious culture as superior to the Anglo-Saxon culture.
3. English churches were rebuilt in the new Romanesque style that was fashionable amongst the Norman aristocracy.
4. The Norman aristocracy spoke Norman-French and used Latin for the Church and official documents.

Keywords

• Aristocracy - the aristocracy are a class of people who hold high social rank, often inheriting their status and wealth

• Chivalry - chivalry is the system of behaviour followed by knights, that put a high value on bravery, mercy, justice, and generosity

• Piety - living in a way that is devoted to religion is known as piety

• Romanesque - Romanesque is the style of building that was fashionable in Western Europe which recalled the power of the Roman Empire

• Penance - penance is to punish yourself to seek God’s forgiveness for a sin

Common misconception