The British History Podcast
424 – Hereward: ft. Judas Priest
Jul 27, 2023
Fascinating guest, Judas Priest, talks about the struggles faced by William and his army in breaching Hereward's fortress. The podcast also explores the political context surrounding Hereward's band and the violent lives of the Norman nobility in the 11th century.
33:32
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Quick takeaways
- The challenging terrain and strategic fortifications on the island of Ely posed significant difficulties for the Normans in breaching Harroward's fortress, resulting in multiple failed attacks and catastrophic losses.
- William's strategy in quelling the rebellion at Ely involved seizing properties and monasteries owned by the English rebels, exemplified by Richard Fitzgillbert's occupation of the Einsbury monastery and imprisonment of the bedridden monks at the Abbey of Beck.
Deep dives
The struggle to breach Ely and the tactics employed by William's army
Despite the military backing of England and Normandy, William's army faced significant challenges in breaching Harroward's fortress on Ely. The island's location amidst fens created difficulties for the Normans, as Harroward and his army were more familiar with the terrain. The Normans attempted to find easier crossing points, but Harroward's army had already established fortifications in strategic locations, making it harder for the Normans to penetrate. Multiple failed attacks resulted in catastrophic losses for the Normans, including casualties like William Mallet, who may have met his end in the swamps of East Anglia.
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