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.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
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.
Keywords
Prince-bishop - a role created to give a bishop greater independence and powers to control the north
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.
To help you plan your year 10 history lesson on: Durham Cathedral and Norman government, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 history lesson on: Durham Cathedral and Norman government, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 history lessons from the Durham Cathedral unit, dive into the full secondary history curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of serious crime
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Earl of Northumbria
Bishop of Durham
Queen and wife of Edward the Confessor
Earl of Wessex (and Tostig's brother)