This three-part series on the Normans, produced by the BBC, is one of my favorite history documentaries of all time. It examines the extraordinary expansion and unchecked ambition of these explorers and warriors from the North. Presented by Professor Robert Bartlett, this series shows how the Normans plundered, conquered and administrated new domains from France to Sicily, even leading to the Holy Land itself.
Men from the North
The Normans that conquered Anglosaxon England in 1066 by defeating t Harold Godwinson at the Battle of Hastings were formidable warriors. Nevertheless, they weren’t Vikings, although they were their direct descendants. In this first episode, Robert Bartlett shows how the Normans established their foothold in France, and forged their own province, Normandy, to dismay of the French king. Surprisingly, the fearsome warriors created some of the finest art and architecture. They build some of the finest churches. Their leader Duke William, or William the Bastard, lead the expansion of the Normans into the neighboring provinces of northern France and most notably to the conquest of England in 1066.
Conquest
The second episode explores the impact of the Norman conquest on the British Isles. The newly conquered lands were completely subjected to a new aristocracy, that savagely cut down opposition. The Anglo-Saxons was compelled to built scores of castles and cathedrals, that were build to intimidate and control the very same population. A very important feat for historians is that William commissioned the Domesday Book, the greatest national survey of England ever. Cultural influence is also recognized in the development of language; French and English conjoined to a new English.
Normans of the South
As the Normans spread south in the 11th century, they brutally gained control of southern Italy and the island of Sicily and created their most prosperous kingdom that would last for more then 2 centuries. Islam en Christianity co-existed in relative harmony and tolerance as the island became a center of culture and learning. Then again, the Normans had an active role in the First Crusade, following the Pope’s call in 1095 for holy war. Normans lay siege to Jerusalem and conquered the holy city from the Muslims, murdering a large part of its occupants.