The Battle of Hastings and Norman Control

The Battle of Hastings represented the culmination of the succession crisis following Edward the Confessor's death. The Norman conquest and the Battle of Hastings strategies demonstrated William's tactical superiority.

Definition: Motte and bailey castles - Wooden fortifications built on raised earthworks, consisting of a defensive tower on a mound (motte) and an enclosed courtyard (bailey).

Highlight: The Norman tactic of feigned retreat proved decisive in breaking the Saxon shield wall.

The aftermath of William's victory saw the rapid construction of motte and bailey castles across England, with advantages including:

• Quick construction time
• Effective defensive capabilities
• Strategic observation points

However, these structures had limitations:

• Vulnerability to rot
• Susceptibility to fire
• Maintenance challenges
• Hygiene issues in enclosed spaces

Battle of Stamford Bridge

The Battle of Stamford Bridge marked a crucial prelude to the Norman Conquest of England. This engagement demonstrated the complex political dynamics of 11th-century England, where the Harald Hardrada and Tostig Godwinson alliance posed a significant threat to Harold Godwinson's rule.

Highlight: The Vikings' celebration of their victory at York proved to be a fatal mistake, leaving their weapons 25km away on their ships.

Example: The legendary tale of the Viking Berserker who single-handedly held the bridge, killing 40 English soldiers before being defeated, illustrates the ferocity of the battle.

Vocabulary: Berserker - A Viking warrior who fought with uncontrolled ferocity.

The battle resulted in the deaths of both Harald Hardrada and Tostig Godwinson, effectively ending the Viking threat to England but leaving Harold's forces exhausted before facing William of Normandy.