SOURCE3 Contenders for the English throne jostle for power
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A Harold Godwinson ‘I should be king! Edward was my brother-in-law, and even though I rebelled against him in 1051, we’ve put aside our differences.’ B William, Duke of Normandy ‘Edward promised me the throne because I helped him crush Harold’s rebellion in 1051. Harold even swore to me that he’d let me be king!’ C Harald Hardrada ‘We should not let Viking influence in England disappear. I’m a descendant of King Canute and that’s why I should be king!’ D Tostig Godwinson ‘My brother Harold is a power-hungry, ambitious swine! I want the throne for myself, and I’ll use King Harald Hardrada of Norway to my advantage to get it!’
7.12 SkillBuilder activity USING HISTORICAL SOURCES The Bayeux Tapestry is a long and detailed tapestry showing scenes celebrating William the Conqueror’s victory in the Battle of Hastings and success in winning the English throne. It is believed to have been produced in France in the eleventh century by William’s half-brother, Bishop Odo, to decorate his newly built cathedral.
SOURCE4 A scene from the Bayeux Tapestry — Harold’s death
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A AnEnglish huscari — the elite bodyguard of Harold’s army B A mounted Norman knight. His armour is similar to that of the huscari . His kite-shield is favoured over Viking round shields. C Stripping troops of their expensive armour D Harold is killed. He is either shot with an arrow or cut down by Norman sword — or perhaps both. TASK: The tapestry is recognised as a primary source of the Conquest of England and it gives us details that historians would otherwise not have known. But exactly how trustworthy a source is it? 1. Investigate , conducting research, to find more information on the Bayeux Tapestry. You might like to use the Bayeux Tapestry weblink in the Resources panel. 2. Make notes about: • theories about its accuracy • information about who created it • information about why it was created • any debates that contest its accuracy. 3. Summarise your findings, supporting your ideas with evidence from the information you found.
196 Jacaranda Humanities Alive 8 Victorian Curriculum Third Edition
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