Conquered and conquerors
This section covers the early history of migration, conquest, and settlement in Britain from c790, focusing on the Viking and Anglo-Saxon period, the Norman Conquest, the Angevin Empire, and the development of English identity through the Hundred Years' War.
Topic Overview
The 'Conquered and Conquerors' topic in AQA GCSE History explores the Norman Conquest of England from 1066 to 1087, focusing on the causes, events, and consequences of William the Conqueror's victory. You'll examine the rival claims to the English throne in 1066, the battles of Stamford Bridge and Hastings, and how William established control through castle-building, the Harrying of the North, and the Domesday Book. This topic is crucial because it transformed English society, introducing feudalism, Norman architecture, and a new ruling elite that shaped medieval England.
Understanding this period helps you see how conquests reshape nations. The Normans brought significant changes to law, land ownership, and the Church, many of which lasted for centuries. You'll analyse sources like the Bayeux Tapestry and the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle to evaluate different perspectives. This topic also connects to wider themes of power, rebellion, and cultural change, making it a key part of the British depth study.
By mastering this topic, you'll be able to explain why William won, how he maintained control, and the impact on ordinary people. You'll also develop skills in source analysis and essay writing, which are essential for exam success. The Norman Conquest is a foundational event in English history, and studying it gives you insight into the origins of many modern institutions.
Key Concepts
Core ideas you must understand for this topic
- →Feudalism: A hierarchical system where the king granted land (fiefs) to nobles in return for military service and loyalty. This reshaped English society after 1066.
- →Harrying of the North (1069-70): William's brutal campaign to crush rebellion in northern England, involving destruction of crops, livestock, and villages, leading to widespread famine.
- →Domesday Book (1086): A comprehensive survey of landholdings and resources, used to assess taxes and assert Norman control. It shows the extent of Norman land redistribution.
- →Castle-building: Motte-and-bailey castles were built across England to control key locations and intimidate the population. They were a symbol of Norman authority.
- →Bayeux Tapestry: A primary source depicting the Norman version of events, but it is biased as it was commissioned by Bishop Odo, William's half-brother.
What You Need to Demonstrate
Key skills and knowledge for this topic
- Invasion: Vikings and Anglo-Saxons; reasons for Viking invasions; creation of the Danelaw; Alfred and Wessex; King Cnut, Emma of Normandy and the North Sea Empire.
- A Norman Kingdom and ‘Angevin’ Empire: relationship between England and France; Henry II; invasion of Ireland; losses under King John.
- The birth of English identity: the Hundred Years’ War and its impact for England’s future development.
Marking Points
Key points examiners look for in your answers
- Invasion: Vikings and Anglo-Saxons; reasons for Viking invasions; creation of the Danelaw; Alfred and Wessex; King Cnut, Emma of Normandy and the North Sea Empire.
- A Norman Kingdom and ‘Angevin’ Empire: relationship between England and France; Henry II; invasion of Ireland; losses under King John.
- The birth of English identity: the Hundred Years’ War and its impact for England’s future development.
Examiner Tips
Expert advice for maximising your marks
- 💡Use specific evidence: When writing about the Harrying of the North, mention the 'wasting' of the land and quote chroniclers like Orderic Vitalis who described it as a 'brutal slaughter'. This shows depth of knowledge.
- 💡Analyse sources critically: For the Bayeux Tapestry, comment on its purpose (Norman propaganda), its audience (the Norman court), and its limitations (e.g., missing English perspective). This scores high marks in source questions.
- 💡Link causes and consequences: In essays, connect events like the Battle of Hastings to long-term impacts such as the introduction of feudalism. For example, explain how William's need to reward followers led to land redistribution, which is recorded in the Domesday Book.
Common Mistakes
Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers
- Misconception: Harold Godwinson was the rightful king because Edward the Confessor promised him the throne. Correction: Edward's promise was not legally binding; the Witan (council of nobles) elected Harold, but William also claimed Edward had promised him the throne, leading to a disputed succession.
- Misconception: The Battle of Hastings was won solely because of the Norman cavalry. Correction: While cavalry was important, William's victory also relied on archers, feigned retreats, and Harold's exhaustion after Stamford Bridge. The English shield wall held for hours until broken by a combination of tactics.
- Misconception: The Domesday Book was just a tax record. Correction: It was also a tool of control, listing who owned what land and resources, allowing William to enforce feudal obligations and reward his followers. It was a symbol of Norman authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions students ask about this topic
Before You Start
Prior knowledge that will help with this topic
- •Anglo-Saxon England before 1066: Understanding the political structure, the role of the Witan, and the reign of Edward the Confessor helps explain the succession crisis.
- •Medieval warfare basics: Knowledge of shield walls, cavalry tactics, and siege warfare provides context for the battles.
- •Norman culture and society: Familiarity with Norman feudalism and castle-building helps explain the changes after 1066.
Likely Command Words
How questions on this topic are typically asked
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