The podcast explores the devastating consequences of the Battle of Hastings, including the anxious wait for news of loved ones and William the Bastard's violent reputation. It also discusses the chaotic preparations to cross the sea again, Harold's emotional state, and the advantages of the chosen landing site. The consequences of power games played by aristocrats and the suffering inflicted upon New Romney are covered, as well as the Pope's support for William and the brutal tactics during the Battle of Hastings. The Carmen de Hastiné Proleo reveals the dark story of the battle, and challenges faced by Harold in defending England. The events leading to the battle, the lack of reliable eyewitness accounts, and the preparations and positioning of both armies are also discussed. The intense and brutal battle of Hastings is described, including a turning point that caused chaos and panic among the English soldiers.
The Normans carried out ruthless pillaging and destruction upon their arrival in Sussex, causing extensive violence and devastation.
The Normans strategically relocated their forces to Hastings due to difficult terrain and lack of cavalry-friendly areas in Pevency.
King Harold Godwinson faced challenges in gathering support to defend the kingdom, as his family and alliances were weakened or strained.
Harold's determination and sense of duty propelled him forward, leading his exhausted army towards the Battle of Hastings.
The English shield wall withstood numerous attacks from the French army, showcasing their resilience and defensive strength.
The Battle of Hastings witnessed a chaotic melee as individual combat and a desperate pursuit of Duke William marked the final stages.
Deep dives
Brutal pillaging and destruction
The Normans carried out ruthless pillaging and destruction upon landing in Sussex. They seized livestock, enslaved women and children, and burned down villages. The scale of the violence and devastation was extensive, with many towns left completely destroyed.
Movements and relocation
After pillaging Pevency, the Normans decided to relocate their forces to Hastings. Though Pevency had strategic advantages, the difficult terrain and lack of cavalry-friendly areas prompted the move. The Normans positioned themselves in an isolated corner, surrounded by water and hills, with limited inland routes.
Enforcement of brutality
Williams and his knights continued their brutal actions, terrorizing the local population. Even the clergy, represented by Bishop Odo, were involved in the pillaging and destruction. Communities were burnt, people were killed, and widespread suffering occurred. The Normans celebrated their actions with feasts and jokes.
Response and urgency
News of William's invasion reached King Harold, who was already en route to London. The severity of the brutalities inflicted on the people of Sussex and the scale of the Norman army motivated Harold to defend his crown and protect his people. He needed support to counter the second invasion rapidly approaching.
Desperate and fragmented allies
King Harold Godwinson finds himself in a precarious position with his family and alliances weakened or strained, leaving him relatively isolated in his quest to defend the kingdom.
Challenges of gathering forces
Harold faces challenges in gathering support as he navigates through damaged relationships, exhausted troops, and a population that had already experienced recent invasions. He must rely on the loyalty of his remaining brothers, the English nobility, and the possibility of reinforcements from the Firth.
Strategic considerations and disadvantages
Harold strategizes to counter William's invasion by quickly moving his army towards the choke point in Hastings. However, time constraints, exhaustion, and reliance on speed over strength put him at a disadvantage. Additionally, Harold's lack of a royal fleet and the absence of accurate intelligence further complicate his position.
Harold's determination and desperate situation
Despite the challenges, Harold's determination and sense of duty propel him forward as he leads his exhausted army towards the battle at Hastings. His decisive actions and belief in defending England against foreign invasion drive him to take calculated risks, even at the cost of strained relationships within his own family.
The Battle of Hastings Begins
The battle commences with an overwhelming religious symbolism in the Norman army, but the English remain resolute in their defensive position.
The English Shield Wall Holds Strong
The English shield wall withstands numerous attacks from the French army, including archery volleys, infantry charges, and cavalry charges.
Moments of Panic and Chaos
At times, panic and disarray break out among both the English and French armies, resulting in temporary retreats and moments of confusion.
The Melee and Pursuit
A chaotic melee ensues as the battle reaches its climax, with individual combat and a desperate pursuit of Duke William marking the final stages.
Stamford Bridge had been a nightmare. Thousands of dead… untold numbers of wounded. And the fallout was just beginning. All over Britain, all over Europe, families would slowly be learning the fate of their loved ones. Word was spreading across England and up to Orkney. Out to Flanders, and Norway.