William: King and Conqueror

Description

1066 is the most famous date in English history. On October 14th, on Senlac Hill near Hastings, a battle was fought that would change the face of England forever. Over the next twenty years, Norman culture was imposed on England, and English politics and society were radically reshaped. But how much is really known about William "the Conqueror," the Norman duke who led his men to victory on that autumn Saturday in what was to be the last successful invasion of England? Mark Hagger here takes a fresh look at William – his life and leadership. As king, he spent much of his reign threatened by rebellion and invasion. In response, he ordered castles and strongholds to be built across the land – a symbol of the force with which he defended his realm and which, along with Domesday Book, England's first public record, attest to a powerful legacy. This book provides a rounded portrait of one of England's greatest rulers Cover Author biography Title page Copyright page Dedication page Contents List of Illustrations List of Maps Preface Prologue: A Most Worthy King 1. Fire and Sword Everywhere, c. 1027–47 2. The Undefeated Duke, 1047–66 3. William the Conqueror, 1066 4. I See God! Ritual and Government 5. Stern Beyond Measure, 1066–76 6. William and the Church 7. A Kingly Figure: William’s Person and Personality 8. Storms of Troubles, 1076–87 Legacy Notes Further Reading