1. What can you infer about how the Battle of Hastings was fought from these images?

2. Why did the Normans win the Battle of Hastings?
Learning outcomes:
Explain key events in the Battle of Hastings.
Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the armies of King Harold and William.
Reach a supported conclusion to explain why the Normans won the Battle of Hastings.

3. 25th September 1066 – Harold Godwinson defeats the Vikings at Stamford Bridge. 28th September 1066– William lands at Pevensey on the south coast. A few days later Harold learns of William’s arrival and marches what is left of his army to London. 6th October 1066 – Harold reaches London. 11th October 1066– Harold ignores advice to wait for reinforcements and leaves London to march south. 13th October 1066– Harold reaches the South Downs and sets up camp near Pevensey. 14th October 1066 – Battle of Hastings!

4. Who was more prepared to win?
Using page 23 of the pink Oxford textbook make a list of the strengths and weaknesses of each army.
Make sure you include these important key words;
Mercenary – Trained warriors who fought for anybody who paid them, William promised them land.
Thegn – A nobleman.
Fyrd – Peasants called to serve in Harold’s army.
Housecarls – Trained and professional bodyguards to King Harold.
Papal banner – A flag given by the Pope to William to show that the invasion had God’s blessing.
L/O: Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the armies of King Harold and William.

5. Which army do you think is more prepared
Which army do you think is more prepared? What impact could the types of soldiers have on the outcome of the battle? What other factors do you think will influence the outcome of the battle?
L/O: Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the armies of King Harold and William.

6. So what actually happened during the course of the battle?
Using pages 24 and 25 in the pink Oxford textbook create a comic strip account of the Battle of Hastings using words and pictures. You should have 5 boxes.
L/O: Explain key events in the Battle of Hastings.

7. What was the key turning point in the battle
What was the key turning point in the battle? Which factor was the most important in influencing the outcome? Why did the Normans win?
L/O: Reach a supported conclusion to explain why the Normans won the Battle of Hastings.