An Unofficial 'The Rest Is History' Reading List

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550. The Road to 1066: Rise of the Normans (Part 3)

March 24, 2025

Description

Born into a world of treachery, violence and death, William of Normandy defied all expectations, forging a legacy that lasts to this day. Born out of wedlock and dismissed as an upstart, he was...
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Books Referenced

History of the Normans

Author: Amatus of Montecassino (Amartus)

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Context:

The hosts quote from this mid-11th century chronicle written by a monk at Monte Cassino, which describes the Normans' characteristics and their expansion. The opening passage about Normans being 'tough, strong people' is directly quoted from this work.

The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle

Author: Anonymous

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Context:

Referenced multiple times as a historical source. The hosts quote from it regarding Harold Harefoot seizing 'all King Canute's best valuables' and Harthacnut's death where 'he fell to the earth with an awful convulsion.'