Durham Cathedral and Norman government
I can explain how William I used the Church to help control the north.
Durham Cathedral and Norman government
I can explain how William I used the Church to help control the north.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- William I dealt with the rebellious north by enacting the Harrying of the North.
- Aethelwine, the Bishop of Durham, was imprisoned for involvement in rebellion and replaced by William Walcher.
- William I built a castle next to the cathedral to provide protection for the Bishop of Durham.
- William I created the role of prince-bishop which had increased powers to control the north.
- William of Saint Calais ordered the building of Durham Cathedral.
Common misconception
Bishops have always had a role equivalent to modern times.
In fact, bishops in the medieval period were involved in government and even led armies into battle, such as bishop Odo of Bayeux.
Keywords
Prince-bishop - a role created to give a bishop greater independence and powers to control the north
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of serious crime
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
Loading...
Starter quiz
6 Questions
Earl of Northumbria
Bishop of Durham
Queen and wife of Edward the Confessor
Earl of Wessex (and Tostig's brother)