Norman England: 1066-1204 (Shire Living Histories)

The year 1066 is perhaps the most important date in English history. The Norman invasion, headed by William the Conqueror, meant revolutionary change throughout English life. Soon there was a new ruling class, new language, new styles of dress, behavior and architecture, as well as a new capital and new forms of landholding. The elite Normans themselves brought England much closer to Continental Europe, lived in their new castles and brought in novel styles of military training, founded monasteries and set up schools. This volume explores their lifestyle and the ways in which they interacted with the Anglo-Saxon English as they changed the face of the country forever.