401. Norman Conquest: Secrets of the Bayeux Tapestry (Part 1)
Summary
This episode of *Empire* launches a new series on the Bayeux Tapestry, exploring the broader history of Norman conquests beyond England. Host William Dalrymple is joined by historian Eleanor Barakoff to examine the Viking origins of Normandy, focusing on Rollo’s settlement and the rapid Francization of the Norse settlers. They discuss the strategic "poacher turned gamekeeper" approach of granting land to Viking leaders and analyze how quickly the Norse language and culture faded within a few generations. The conversation also highlights the interconnectedness of the Norse diaspora, noting N…
Topics discussed
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Introduction to the Bayeux Tapestry series and Norman conquest
Eleanor Barakoff joins to discuss Normans and Vikings
Charlemagne's empire and the early Viking raids
Frankish strategies to counter Viking waterway attacks
Viking expansion into France and the Seine river
The 845 raid on Paris and the payment of Danegeld
The Great Heathen Army and Viking mobility across Europe
Rollo's origins and the Norse diaspora
Historical sources on Rollo: Dudo vs. the sagas
Charles the Simple and the strategy of settling Vikings
The Treaty of Saint-Clair-sur-Epte and Rollo's baptism
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Linguistic and genetic evidence of Viking settlement in Normandy
The decline of Norse language and culture in Normandy
Norman identity, Christianization, and the 11th-century revival
Norman mercenaries in Southern Italy and Sicily
William the Bastard's childhood and rise to power
William's character, tanner heritage, and reputation as a brute
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