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GCSE EdExcel Anglo-Saxon and Norman England, c1060 - 88
4 students

GCSE EdExcel Anglo-Saxon and Norman England, c1060 - 88

The Norman Conquest of 1066, The Establishment of Norman Rule and Social, Political, and Cultural Transformation
Created byOpen eLMS
Last updated 9/2025
English

What you'll learn

  • Understand the political and social structures of Anglo-Saxon England
  • Analyze the causes and consequences of the Norman Conquest
  • Explain the profound changes introduced by the Norman regime
  • Evaluate the long-term impact of the Norman Conquest on English identity

Course content

30 sections30 lectures4h 36m total length
  • The King and the Earls8:24

    This course explores the intricate power dynamics within Anglo-Saxon England, focusing on the roles of the king and his earls. It delves into the monarch's extensive authority, the advisory function of the Witan, and the significant influence wielded by powerful earls. Learners will also gain insight into the reign of Edward the Confessor, understanding both his strengths and the challenges he faced.

  • The King and the Earls Quiz

Requirements

  • Basic English reading and writing skills – to understand content and complete written tasks.
  • An interest in history or historical change – especially related to politics, religion, and monarchy.
  • Access to a notebook or digital device – for taking notes and completing short tasks or quizzes.
  • A quiet space with internet access – to watch video lessons and engage with interactive content.

Description

The period of Anglo-Saxon and Norman England from c1060 to 1088 represents a pivotal and tumultuous era of profound transformation in English history. This short span of time saw the end of the Anglo-Saxon rule and the dramatic and permanent establishment of a new Norman elite. The era is dominated by the events of 1066, a year of three battles for the English crown. Following the death of the childless King Edward the Confessor, three men laid claim to the throne: Harold Godwinson, the most powerful Anglo-Saxon earl; Harald Hardrada, the King of Norway; and William, Duke of Normandy. Harold Godwinson successfully defended against the Viking invasion at the Battle of Stamford Bridge but was ultimately defeated by William at the Battle of Hastings, leading to the Norman Conquest.


Following his coronation as King William I, the new Norman ruler faced immediate and fierce resistance. His reign from 1066 to 1088 was marked by a brutal consolidation of power. He suppressed numerous Anglo-Saxon rebellions with extreme severity, a policy often referred to as the "Harrying of the North," which devastated large areas of northern England and resulted in widespread famine. To maintain control, William oversaw a massive program of castle-building, replacing Anglo-Saxon timber fortifications with hundreds of powerful motte-and-bailey castles. This new defensive network served as a visible symbol of Norman dominance and a base for military control.


The conquest fundamentally reshaped the social and political fabric of England. William introduced the feudal system, replacing the old Anglo-Saxon land-holding system with a network of land-for-service relationships. He confiscated the land of the Anglo-Saxon aristocracy and granted it to his Norman followers, creating a new ruling class. To formalize this control and to tax his new kingdom, William commissioned the Domesday Book in 1086, a comprehensive survey of the land and resources of England. This document provides a unique snapshot of the nation at a moment of immense change. The period concluded with William’s death in 1087 and the succession struggles among his sons, but the Norman foundation had been firmly laid, permanently altering English language, law, and culture.


This course is a comprehensive study guide designed for students preparing for the GCSE EdExcel examination. Per Udemy policy, the course is intended for purchase by adults (18+) who will supervise the learning and account usage of the enrolled student. Enrollment must be handled by a parent or legal guardian.


This course contains the use of artificial intelligence.

Who this course is for:

  • Year 10 and Year 11 students preparing for exams who want clear, structured revision support.
  • Home-schooled learners looking for a complete, curriculum-aligned resource.
  • Teachers or tutors seeking high-quality video content to supplement their teaching.
  • Parents supporting their child’s GCSE History learning at home.