The Anglo-Norman Church
I can explain reasons for Norman reforms of the English Church.
The Anglo-Norman Church
I can explain reasons for Norman reforms of the English Church.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The medieval Church was a powerful and influential institution, which William used to spread Norman control in England.
- William reformed the Church arguing it was in moral decline. It is likely he saw the leadership as a threat to his rule.
- Most Anglo-Saxon bishops were replaced with Normans, and Lanfranc was appointed as Archbishop of Canterbury.
- Lanfranc oversaw a programme of church-building, and bishops were transferred from villages to cities.
- Lanfranc’s other reforms included introducing more discipline and a greater separation from non-religious life.
Keywords
Normanisation - Normanisation is the process of making something more similar to or typical of Norman styles, beliefs, customs, etc.
Reform - reform is when you make changes to improve something
Simony - simony is the buying or selling of advantages or paid positions in the Christian Church, which was considered to be a sin
Pluralism - pluralism is the practice of holding more than one religious office at the same time
Common misconception
Medieval and modern Church power is equivalent.
Explicitly outline the Church's organisational power: land ownership, clergy social status, and spiritual authority.
To help you plan your year 10 history lesson on: The Anglo-Norman Church, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 history lesson on: The Anglo-Norman Church, 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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Explore more key stage 4 history lessons from the Anglo-Saxon and Norman England: how did Norman government impact England? unit, dive into the full secondary history curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions
owned all the land in England
vassals who received very large fiefs direct from the king
were required to fight for their overlord in return for their fief
provided labour service for their overlord