The podcast dives into the aggressive Norman strategies in Wales, focusing on their swift castle constructions and the fierce resistance from the Welsh. It highlights the political upheaval in North Wales as Griffith Ap Cunnan navigates alliances and betrayals, and the mysterious fate of Robert's severed head adds a grim twist to the tale. Tensions rise with Rufus's absence from military matters, revealing the struggles for identity amid chaos. Finally, the intricate relationship between Duke Robert and King Rufus unfolds amid Scottish conflicts.
The Normans faced significant resistance in Wales as they struggled to establish control over a terrain they were unfamiliar with.
Robert of Rhuddlan's betrayal by Griffith Ap Cunnan escalated tensions, leading to a critical shift in power dynamics and greater Welsh opposition.
Deep dives
Norman Expansion and Welsh Resistance
The Normans aimed to expand their control into Wales, establishing strongholds using castles and fortifications. However, they confronted significant challenges, as they were unfamiliar with the terrain and were outnumbered by the Welsh defenders. The Welsh recognized that the Norman attempts at conquest were merely establishing pockets of occupation, as resistance was prevalent in areas not directly controlled by the Normans. This created a contentious environment where Welsh leaders began organizing opposition while the Normans struggled to entrench their power.
The Betrayal of Robert of Ritalin
Robert of Rithlin played a key role in attempting to solidify Norman rule in North Wales by supporting Griffith Ap Cunnan in his quest for the throne of Gwyneth. Robert sought to remove the hostile King Traherne and replace him with Griffith, whom he believed he could control as a puppet ruler. However, once Griffith secured the throne, he turned against Robert, destroying the castle at Rithlin and inciting Robert's fierce desire for vengeance. This betrayal marked the beginning of a bitter feud that would impact the power dynamics in the region significantly.
Griffith's Resurgence and Robert's Downfall
After being imprisoned, Griffith managed to escape and returned to Wales with renewed vigor, teaming up with another claimant to regain control from King Traherne. Despite having initially lost power, Griffith's military success against Traherne and subsequent conflicts with the Normans demonstrated his resilience. Robert of Rithlin's furious attacks against Griffith led to a disastrous confrontation when Robert, unprepared and outnumbered, was killed during an ill-fated and reckless charge against Griffith's forces. Griffith's victory not only eliminated Robert but also inspired greater Welsh resistance, showing that the Normans were not invincible in Wales.
In the space of less than a year, the Norman barons had surged deep into Wales and were further entrenching themselves using castles and other fortifications.