Option Two: Medieval Ireland Study this or 3: Ancient Ireland
The Middle Ages in Ireland c. 800–1500
The Plantations c. 1500–1700
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The Middle Ages was a hugely important time in Irish history. During this time, Ireland was attacked by the Vikings and invaded by the Normans. The first towns were set up and many castles were built around the country. Ireland in this period was a place of violence and hardship for most people. The island was divided into dozens of different Gaelic Irish kingdoms which all fought each other for control over land and wealth. The invasion of the Normans from England in 1169 would change the island forever.
Medieval Ireland Type of source
Primary Primary
WORKING WITH THE EVIDENCE! —————————————
Category Tactile
Written
—————————— Example
Artefacts and physical remains from the Wood Quay excavations (see chapter 4) Trim Castle
The Annals of the Four Masters: an account of Irish history written by Irish monks
The Topographia Hibernica: written by a Norman priest, Gerald of Wales, who travelled in Ireland after the Norman Conquest
