The history of the Norman conquest of England, its causes and its results, Volume 3 (of 6)

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

78122

Title

The history of the Norman conquest of England, its causes and its results, Volume 3 (of 6)

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Edward A. Freeman's third volume chronicles the reign of Harold and the turbulent interregnum following Edward the Confessor's death. Freeman meticulously analyzes conflicting contemporary accounts regarding Harold's accession, Edward's alleged bequests, and the Norman claim to the throne. With a scholarly tone, the text explores the complex interplay of oath, inheritance, and conquest that precipitated the Norman Conquest, offering a definitive historical reconstruction of England's pivotal transition.

Summary up to 500 words

In Volume III of *The History of the Norman Conquest of England*, Edward A. Freeman meticulously reconstructs the turbulent period between the death of Edward the Confessor and the Battle of Hastings. Freeman's primary objective is to critically evaluate the reliability of conflicting contemporary chroniclers, such as William of Poitiers, Orderic Vitalis, Wace, and the Anglo-Saxon writers, to determine the true circumstances of Harold Godwinson's accession. A central theme is the contentious debate regarding Edward's deathbed bequest: did the king name William of Normandy as heir, designate Harold as successor, or leave the decision to the Witan? Freeman notes that Norman sources often downplay Harold's legitimacy, whereas English accounts frequently assert a direct bequest to the Earl. The narrative details Harold's coronation, his controversial oath to William, and the complex political maneuvering involving Archbishop Stigand and Archbishop Ealdred. Freeman also addresses the ecclesiastical turmoil in Normandy, specifically the marriage of William and Matilda, the subsequent papal interdict, and the eventual reconciliation between the Duke and his reformer, Lanfranc. This volume highlights the fragility of the English monarchy and the decisive role of foreign intervention in its collapse. Freeman's analysis reveals how the Normans struggled to reconcile Harold's election with their own claims, ultimately setting the stage for the invasion. Through a rigorous cross-examination of sources, Freeman presents a nuanced view of the conquest's causes, emphasizing that William's legitimacy was a dual nature derived from both conquest and the alleged consent of the English people. The text concludes by illustrating how the English monarchy's weakness allowed foreign powers to dictate its fate, culminating in the decisive events that led to the Norman Conquest.

LLM editorial rating

4.5/5

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Categories

• History
• Great Britain