Question 1

How did the Norman Conquest change everyday life for ordinary Anglo-Saxons?

Accepted Answer

Everyday life changed significantly for ordinary Anglo-Saxons. Many were dispossessed of their land, which was given to Norman lords. Peasants (villeins) had to work on the lord's land and pay taxes, and they faced harsher laws, such as the murdrum fine (a tax on the hundred where a Norman was killed). The Normans also built castles and churches, changing the landscape, and introduced new French words into English. However, many daily routines, like farming and village life, remained similar.

Question 2

What was the Domesday Book and why was it important?

Accepted Answer

The Domesday Book was a detailed survey of land and resources in England, completed in 1086 on the orders of William the Conqueror. It recorded who owned every piece of land, how much it was worth, and how many people lived there. Its importance lies in its role as a tool for taxation and royal control – it allowed William to know exactly what his kingdom was worth and to settle disputes over land ownership. It also symbolised Norman authority and efficiency.

Question 3

How did the Normans control England after the conquest?

Accepted Answer

The Normans used several methods to control England. They built castles (motte-and-bailey and later stone) across the country to dominate towns and strategic points. They introduced feudalism, where all land was held from the king in return for military service, creating a loyal nobility. The Domesday Book helped them track resources and tax efficiently. They also replaced Anglo-Saxon bishops with Normans to control the Church, and brutally suppressed rebellions, like the Harrying of the North, to deter resistance.

Question 4

What was the feudal system under the Normans?

Accepted Answer

The feudal system was a hierarchy based on land ownership and loyalty. At the top was the king, who owned all land. He granted large estates (fiefs) to tenants-in-chief (barons) in return for military service and advice. Barons granted smaller parcels to knights, who provided military service. At the bottom, peasants (villeins) worked the land in exchange for protection and a small plot for themselves. This system ensured the king had an army and that land was efficiently managed, but it also created a rigid social structure.

Question 5

How did the Norman Conquest affect the English Church?

Accepted Answer

The Norman Conquest transformed the English Church. William replaced Anglo-Saxon bishops and abbots with Normans, most notably Lanfranc as Archbishop of Canterbury. They introduced Romanesque architecture (e.g., Durham Cathedral), stricter monastic rules (based on Cluny), and separate church courts. The Church became more organised and closely tied to the Norman state, but it also lost some independence. New cathedrals and monasteries were built, and the Church's wealth and power increased under Norman control.

Question 6

Why did the Normans build castles in England?

Accepted Answer

The Normans built castles primarily to control the conquered population and defend against rebellions. Castles served as military strongholds, administrative centres, and symbols of Norman authority. The motte-and-bailey design (a wooden keep on a mound with a fenced courtyard) was quick to build and effective. Later, stone keeps (like the Tower of London) provided better defence. Castles were placed near towns, rivers, and roads to dominate the landscape and intimidate the Anglo-Saxons.

Life under the Normans

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Likely Command Words

Ready to test yourself?

Related Topics in AQA GCSE History

A revolution in medicine

America, 1840–1895: Expansion and consolidation

America, 1920–1973: Opportunity and inequality

American people and the 'Boom'

How to Revise Life under the Normans — AQA GCSE History

Examiner Tips for Life under the Normans

Common Mistakes in Life under the Normans

Key Marking Points