A Chronological History of Britain
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When we left off, things were looking pretty bad for William and William’s hope of a legacy. Maine was once again in rebellion against Normandy. But this time half of France seemed to be looking for an excuse to join them. Denmark was preparing an invasion of England … and even William’s brother-in-law, Count Robert of Flanders, was preparing to be part of that invasion fleet.
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Matilda was dead and now things were coming apart at the seams.
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Based on the e-mails I have been getting, some of you are having a hard time understanding why on god’s green earth did Odo think he could just trot down to Rome and become the new Pope.
The truth is he was less crazy than we might think, and I’m going to take a moment to explain the situation a little better. Partly because this becomes important to our story later on and partly because it’s hilariously messy. And I love mess.
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Tensions rise as rebellion and violence sweep through Northumbria. As news of the uprising reaches the south, King William, though initially absent, takes action and sends his half-brother, Bishop Odo, to deal with it. Odo’s reputation for cruelty was well earned and the people of Durham suffer greatly at his hands.
In the midst of this turmoil, William receives demands from Pope Gregory, who seeks to assert his authority over the king. But William is William.
Rough Transcript Below:
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King Malcolm and the Scots have been raiding the northern reaches of England, leaving the Northumbrians to deal with the aftermath. Meanwhile, William is not speaking to his son Robert and is spreading rumors about him to anyone who will listen. Robert’s enemies are enjoying the show, but not everyone is amused. The powerful members of Norman society are worried about the escalating conflict, and Robert has had enough as well. He wants to put an end to the fighting, but William is determined to continue the war. Matilda has been working hard in Germany, and she returns to Rouen in the spring of 1080 with Count Simon by her side. They are joined by Archbishops Richard and Warmund, and everyone in attendance at the Easter celebration on an island just south of Rouen wants the conflict to end.
Rough Transcript Below:
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William, the Duke of Normandy and King of England, has been humiliated by his son Robert. Despite years of mocking and disrespect from William, Robert has defeated him in battle and spared his life. This has weakened William physically and reputationally. Meanwhile, Robert travels through Europe, attending tournaments and gaining support from powerful nobles who sympathize with his grievances against his father. The European aristocracy loves the gossip surrounding William and Robert’s feud. The conflict between them has caused instability and political consequences, even catching the attention of Pope Gregory. King Malcolm of Scotland takes advantage of the distraction caused by the family rift and raids northern England. The raiding continues for months, giving the English ideas of resistance.
Rough Transcript Below:
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In a fit of rebellion, Robert, the eldest son of William the Conqueror, marches out on his own, defying his father and seeking adventure. However, reality sets in as he realizes the challenges and consequences of his actions. With the support of his companions, who are wealthy and politically connected, Robert launches a rebellion against his father, leading to a series of raids and battles. The conflict escalates as King Philip of France and other nobles become involved, resulting in a siege and a final confrontation between Robert and his father on the battlefield.
Rough Transcript Below: