How historians investigate sources – the Bayeux Tapestry
JOB OF THE HISTORIAN
The Bayeux Tapestry or Embroidery tells the story of the invasion of England in 1066 by William the Conqueror from Normandy, France. He defeated King Harold of England at the Battle of Hastings. He brought the feudal system to England. The tapestry is about 70 m long and 50 cm wide, and dates from about from the
1070s–1090s. It is believed to have been commissioned (ordered) by Odo, the Bishop of Bayeux, a half-brother of William the Conqueror. It has 50 main scenes, which were embroidered onto a woven linen background.
Norman knights attack Harold’s soldiers
William’s army being transported to England
The death of King Harold
USEFULNESS OF SOURCES Questions to ask about the usefulness of a source
●› Is the source relevant (related) to what you are researching?
●› Does it give you information that you need? ●› Is the information reliable (trustworthy)?
●› Is the Bayeux Tapestry a primary or a secondary source? ●› What story does it tell? ●› Is it a reliable source?
●› What evidence (information) does it provide for historians about medieval warfare?
●› Is the source written, visual, aural, oral or tactile? Explain your answers.
