Overview of the Course

If you were to look back at hundreds of years of history in search of the one critical moment after which the history of the English-speaking world would never be the same again, it would undoubtedly be the year 1066. For it was during this pivotal time that an event occurred that would have untold ramifications for the European continent: the Norman Conquest of England. But why does this moment matter so much, both for the medieval world and for us today in the 21st century?

While the true meaning and importance of the Norman Conquest have been sharply debated ever since it happened, medievalist and award-winning Professor Jennifer Paxton of Georgetown University argues that the Norman Conquest, and the entire year of 1066, matters deeply for two key reasons: It reoriented England with Europe rather than Scandinavia, and it fused English and French culture in ways that would reshape history. In fact, it was only with the tumultuous events of the year 1066 that England was equipped to become a full participant in the unprecedented developments of the Middle Ages and the centuries that followed.

With “1066: The Year That Changed Everything,” Professor Paxton’s exciting and historically rich six-lecture course, you can experience for yourself the drama of this dynamic year. Taking you from the shores of Scandinavia and France to the battlefields of the English countryside, 1066 will plunge you into a world of fierce Viking warriors, powerful noble families, politically charged marriages, tense succession crises, epic military invasions, and much more.

Course Lectures

01: The Norman Conquest through History

What makes 1066 such a pivotal year in the history of Western civilization? How has the meaning of the Norman Conquest been debated and interpreted over time? And how did two weddings—between the English king Aethelred and the duke of Normandy’s sister, Emma, and then, after the death of Aethelred, Emma’s marriage to the Danish king Cnut—lay the groundwork for this tumultuous moment? Find out in this lecture that provides crucial information for grasping the Norman Conquest.

Duration: 34 min

02: England and Normandy before the Conquest

Take a closer look at the half-century between the Danish conquest of England in 1016 and the fateful year of 1066—a chaotic time when power was up for grabs. Two figures were crucial during this time: Edward the Confessor, who succeeded to the English throne in 1042 but was dominated by the powerful Godwinsons, and William the Bastard, the ruler of Normandy, who brought the Norman nobles under control and then set his sights on conquering England.

Duration: 34 min

03: The Succession Crisis in England

Investigate how the relationship between Edward the Confessor and William the Bastard put England and Normandy on a collision course when the childless King Edward had to plan the succession to the English throne. You’ll focus on Edward’s plans for succession, meet the contenders to the throne, and learn how Harold Godwinson achieved victory at the Battle of Stamford Bridge—only to face another invasion of England from the south.

Duration: 34 min

04: The Battle of Hastings

Revisit one of the most important moments in English history: the Battle of Hastings, after which the island nation—and the entire Western world—would never be the same. Dr. Paxton reveals how the Normans mustered up enough men and ships for their invasion; investigates some intriguing mysteries and controversies about the invasion; explains the tactics of medieval warfare; and provides a blow-by-blow account of the battle.

Duration: 32 min

05: Completing the Conquest

It took several years for William the Conqueror to consolidate the gains he made at the Battle of Hastings. Learn how he used a combination of diplomacy and clever military tactics to take control of London without a fierce battle; how he won over the church so that he could get himself crowned king; how he spent the early years of his reign responding to various rebellions in the northern part of the country; and more.

Duration: 35 min

06: The Aftermath of the Conquest

Why does the Norman Conquest matter? Take a closer look at the relationship between the Normans and the English in the generations immediately following the conquest, with a focus on the myriad ways that Norman and English culture intermingled. You’ll realize the ultimate legacy of this vital year: the transition of England into the European mainstream.

Duration: 37 min