The Normans, BBC Two | reviews, news & interviews
The Normans, BBC Two
The Normans, BBC Two
Britain's last conquerors are given their due
My surname came to Britain with the Normans, and I must say that my forebears have had a bad press in their adopted homeland. From Hereward the Wake to Robin Hood, Anglo-Saxon legends have depicted us as despotic and cruel, whereas we were great builders of castles and cathedrals, brilliant horsemen and tip-top administrators, as well as being despotic and cruel. Anyway, it was good to have the refreshingly un-youthful and un-strident Professor Robert Bartlett (more Norman names) giving us his authoritative account of the antecedents and legacy of 1066 and all that. It’s about time we Viking-Frenchmen had a spokesperson.
My surname came to Britain with the Normans, and I must say that my forebears have had a bad press in their adopted homeland. From Hereward the Wake to Robin Hood, Anglo-Saxon legends have depicted us as despotic and cruel, whereas we were great builders of castles and cathedrals, brilliant horsemen and tip-top administrators, as well as being despotic and cruel. Anyway, it was good to have the refreshingly un-youthful and un-strident Professor Robert Bartlett (more Norman names) giving us his authoritative account of the antecedents and legacy of 1066 and all that. It’s about time we Viking-Frenchmen had a spokesperson.
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The critique of the Normans
The critique of the Normans and their manipulation by powerful entities such as the Vatican presents an interesting perspective. However, it is essential to recognize the rich and multifaceted culture of the Vikings, from which the Normans originated. The Vikings were not merely "savages" but had a complex and sophisticated society with rich traditions in art, poetry, and craftsmanship. Their intricate jewelry, woodwork, and textiles reflect a highly developed aesthetic sense and technical skill.
Moreover, the Vikings were unparalleled navigators and seafarers. Their innovative shipbuilding techniques allowed them to travel vast distances across the open ocean, reaching as far as North America, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. These voyages were not solely for plunder; they also facilitated trade, cultural exchange, and exploration. The Vikings established trade routes that connected disparate parts of the world, contributing to economic and cultural interactions that enriched both their society and those they encountered.
The Vikings' transition from raiders to builders, and eventually to the establishment of the Normans, showcases their adaptability and capacity for growth. They were not simply tools of manipulation but active agents in shaping the medieval world, leaving a legacy that includes legal systems, linguistic influences, and architectural innovations. Recognizing these aspects provides a more balanced view of their impact on history.