Anglo-Saxon and Viking Invasions of Britain
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary characteristic of concentric castles?

  • They have a single stone wall for protection.
  • They were built exclusively with wooden structures.
  • They feature two or more stone outer walls. (correct)
  • They were primarily designed for residential purposes.

    • What was a significant result of the Harrying of the North?

  • The introduction of new agricultural practices in the north.
  • The establishment of peace between William and the Anglo-Saxons.
  • A gradual increase in the population in the area.
  • A 75% decrease in the population, according to the Domesday Book. (correct)

    • Which type of towers were favored in concentric castles over time and why?

  • Square towers because they were easier to defend.
  • Round towers due to improved visibility and defense against mining. (correct)
  • Triangular towers for better strength.
  • Rectangular towers for their aesthetic appeal.

    • Who led the major rebellion against William in York in 1069?

    <p>Edgar the Atheling.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action did William take to ensure he maintained control over the rebels?

    <p>He ordered widespread destruction in the north-east of England.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary reason for the success of the Anglo-Saxon invasions after the Romans left Britain?

    <p>The Britons had no defense system in place.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which tribes are considered to be the ancestors of the Anglo-Saxons?

    <p>Angles, Saxons, and Jutes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What language did the Anglo-Saxons speak?

    <p>Old English</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who invited the Saxon warriors Hengist and Horsa to Britain?

    <p>Vortigern</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what century did the first Anglo-Saxons raid Britain?

    <p>4th century AD</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What term is used to describe the period of British history from the end of Roman occupation to the Norman conquest?

    <p>Anglo-Saxon period</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the motivation behind the migration of the Anglo-Saxons to Britain?

    <p>Invitation from the British ruler to defend against threats</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinction did the Romans hold when they invaded Britain compared to the later Anglo-Saxons?

    <p>They did not assimilate to the culture.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the primary reasons Vikings left their homeland?

    <p>Due to advancements in sailing and overpopulation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the Viking approach to raiding?

    <p>Christian monasteries were main targets due to their lack of protection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main purpose of Viking longships?

    <p>To facilitate raiding and trading across vast distances</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group was responsible for choosing the next ruler in Anglo-Saxon England?

    <p>The Witan, a council of leaders</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where did most Viking invaders primarily settle in Britain?

    <p>The Danelaw, north and east of England</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What were the Viking trading centers mentioned in the content?

    <p>Hedeby and Bolghar</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many people approximately populated York, known as Jorvik to the Vikings?

    <p>10,000</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which item was NOT commonly traded by the Vikings?

    <p>Gold bullion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who were the 'thralls' in Viking society?

    <p>Slaves who had no civil rights</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary reason Viking raids became more profitable?

    <p>The rise of merchant shipping and trade</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Viking ships differ from typical ships of their time?

    <p>They were designed to navigate both coastal and inland waters</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What societal role did the thegns play in Anglo-Saxon England?

    <p>They were the backbone of the Anglo-Saxon army</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is true regarding Viking society?

    <p>A significant portion of the Viking population were slaves known as thralls</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the purpose of the 'gild' system in Anglo-Saxon law?

    <p>To ensure compensation was paid for injuries or killings</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How were local cases handled in Anglo-Saxon times?

    <p>Through hundred courts composed of Tithings</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant reform initiated by Alfred the Great?

    <p>The fortification of towns known as burhs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What led to the initiation of the Viking Age?

    <p>Wealthy land-owning farmers engaging in raids</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a common living arrangement in Viking households?

    <p>Shared space within the house among family members and animals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the penalty for breaking into someone's home in the Anglo-Saxon era?

    <p>A fine of five shillings payable to the homeowner</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Viking society, how were laws communicated?

    <p>By word of mouth during community gatherings</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the outcome of the Viking raid on Lindisfarne?

    <p>Valuables were stolen, and several monks were taken as slaves</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did the shire-reeve or sheriff play in Anglo-Saxon governance?

    <p>The chief law enforcement officer in the shire</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which architectural feature was most associated with Anglo-Saxon villages?

    <p>High fences for protection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary motivation for Viking raids on monasteries?

    <p>To acquire wealth and treasures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a Holmgang in Viking society?

    <p>A duel to resolve disputes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What materials were most commonly used for constructing Anglo-Saxon houses?

    <p>Timber, leather, and textile</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What ensured that a slain person's family was compensated in Anglo-Saxon law?

    <p>The payment of a weregild</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant change occurred in the English language by 1200?

    <p>The emergence of Middle English</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What architectural style replaced Anglo-Saxon structures across England?

    <p>Norman-inspired architecture</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the unique feature of Norman cavalry during the battle?

    <p>They utilized mounted knights on a large scale.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What tactic did William the Conqueror use to break the English shield wall?

    <p>Feigned retreat</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant effect of the feudal system introduced by William?

    <p>Nobility controlled large areas of land.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the Domesday Book primarily aim to achieve?

    <p>Survey the wealth and property for taxation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What group made up over 90% of the medieval population in England?

    <p>Peasants</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the purpose of the oath of loyalty taken by William's tenants-in-chief?

    <p>To demonstrate William's control over England</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which weapon gave Normans an advantage during battle that the English did not utilize effectively?

    <p>Crossbow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Anglo-Saxon commoners adapt to the Norman invasion?

    <p>By learning Norman French</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant result of the Battle of Hastings in 1066?

    <p>Harold was defeated, leading to Norman rule</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which class had more rights than villeins in the feudal system?

    <p>Freemen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What strategy did Harold use to prepare for the battle against William?

    <p>Creating a strong shield wall on high ground</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary purpose of most rune stones during the Viking Age?

    <p>To commemorate and honour the dead</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which fabric was commonly used for garments worn by Vikings due to its durability in cold weather?

    <p>Wool</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Glima in Viking culture?

    <p>A martial arts system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event marked the end of the Viking Age?

    <p>The Battle of Hastings</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who was claimed to have promised the English crown to William, Duke of Normandy?

    <p>King Edward the Confessor</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did the Witan play in selecting a new ruler after King Edward's death?

    <p>They chose the successor from several claimants.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was a direct effect of the Norman conquest of England?

    <p>Reduction of land under Anglo-Saxon control</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which Viking was involved in the last major assault in Europe during the Viking Age?

    <p>Harald Hardrada</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterized England in the 11th century prior to the events of 1066?

    <p>It was wealthy and well-governed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary reason for Harold Godwinson's claim to the English throne?

    <p>He claimed Edward promised him the throne.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the Viking ships, such as the Oseberg ship, symbolize?

    <p>Their shipbuilding skills</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Vikings typically tie their footwear?

    <p>With laces around the ankle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What challenge was posed to England after the death of Edward the Confessor?

    <p>Dispute over the royal succession</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who was Edgar the Aetheling?

    <p>An Anglo-Saxon prince and claimant to the throne</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group controlled the largest percentage of land according to the Domesday Book?

    <p>Norman nobility</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What direct purpose did the Domesday Book serve for William and future monarchs?

    <p>To raise taxes and administer the country</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the estimated annual income William earned from the land listed in the Domesday Book?

    <p>£22,500</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of castle was primarily built to serve as a quick defensive structure after the Norman conquest?

    <p>Motte-and-bailey castles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which two volumes make up the Domesday Book?

    <p>Little Domesday and Great Domesday</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key reason for the construction of motte-and-bailey castles in England?

    <p>To intimidate the local population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many vineyards are noted in the Domesday Book, suggesting wine production?

    <p>45</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which feature was common in motte-and-bailey castles to enhance their defense?

    <p>A moat or ditch</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement about the control of land post-Norman Conquest is accurate?

    <p>The Church held 25% of land ownership</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which feature distinguished stone keep castles from motte-and-bailey castles?

    <p>They were built to last longer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the total value of land listed in the Domesday Book?

    <p>£73,000</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was included in the survey conducted for the Domesday Book?

    <p>The value of crops and livestock</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did local laws in the Domesday Book suggest about society?

    <p>Law enforcement was a key feature</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What advancement did castles undergo over time?

    <p>They evolved to stronger structures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of land was controlled by English nobility after the Norman Conquest?

    <p>5%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Anglo-Saxon Invasion of Britain

    • Britons existed in Britain before Anglo-Saxon arrival
    • Anglo-Saxons (Angles, Saxons, Jutes) were Germanic tribes
    • Initially raided Britain in the 4th century, beaten back by the Romans
    • Romans left Britain in the early 5th century, unprepared Britons
    • Anglo-Saxons successfully invaded, migrating from Northern Germany in the 5th century
    • Britons' leader, Vortigern, invited Hengist and Horsa, Saxon brothers, for assistance against Picts and Scotti, prompting conflict.
    • Saxons' request for more money resulted in permanent settlement
    • Anglo-Saxons blended with Britons and established kingdoms
    • Anglo-Saxon language (Old English) spread, becoming ancestor of modern English
    • Period of Anglo-Saxon rule spanned from 410 to 1066
    • Anglo-Saxons were literate

    Viking Invasion

    • Vikings originated from Scandinavia (Denmark, Norway, Sweden)
    • "Viking" referred to explorers, traders, and warriors
    • Advanced ship technology (longships) and overpopulation prompted raids
    • Viking raids began in the late 8th century
    • Initially targeted monasteries (e.g., Lindisfarne in 793) due to wealth and lack of defense
    • Vikings settled in Danelaw (North and East England)
    • Vikings traded goods (furs, amber) for silver, spices, etc.
    • Slavery was an important commodity for trade.

    Anglo-Saxon Society and Structure

    • England became a wealthy kingdom with successful trade and agriculture
    • Wessex royal family held hereditary ruling rights
    • Witan (council of leaders) chose successors
    • Earls were the king's nobles
    • Thegns (soldiers) were the backbone of the Anglo-Saxon armies
    • Freemen owned land and helped in local communities -Serfs served a lord as part of the feudal system.

    Anglo-Saxon Law and Order

    • Local courts (hundreds and tithings) enforced laws
    • Punishment for crimes involved fines or execution (no prisons)
    • Gild system: compensation for injuries/killings to prevent blood feuds
    • Anglo-Saxon settlements had small populations with simple homes.

    Anglo-Saxon Living Standards

    • Anglo-Saxon houses were made of timber, leather, textiles
    • Villages near natural resources (water, wood, food)
    • Houses faced the sun for warmth
    • Homes built with protective fences (or palisades)
    • Fortified towns (burhs) were built for defence

    The Norman Conquest

    • King Edward the Confessor's death without an heir created conflict
    • Four contenders for the throne (Edgar the Aetheling, Harald Hardrada, Harold Godwinson, William the Conqueror)
    • Harold II crowned King after Edward's death
    • William the Conqueror invaded and defeated Harold II at the Battle of Hastings (1066)

    Feudal System

    • William the Conqueror took control of all the land
    • Land was granted to nobles, clergy, and barons (tenants-in-chief)
    • Peasants worked on the land as tenants
    • Hierarchy established: King, nobility, peasants

    The Domesday Book

    • William commissioned a detailed land and property survey to assess wealth
    • Known as the Domesday Book (1086)
    • Revealed landownership distribution among Anglo-Saxons, Normans, and Church
    • Demonstrated Norman control
    • Gave valuable insights into medieval English life

    Castles

    • Motte-and-bailey castles, stone keeps, and concentric castles were constructed by William's loyalists
    • Constructed for protection and demonstration of control
    • William faced rebellions and the Harrying of the North to suppress resistance.

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    Description

    This quiz covers the significant historical events of the Anglo-Saxon and Viking invasions of Britain. Learn about the origins of these groups, their interactions with the Britons, and the lasting impacts they had on the language and culture of England. Delve into the timeline and key figures involved in these transformative periods.

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