The Normans Part Two (Online)

What comes to mind when you think of ‘The Normans’? It might be castles, knights in chain mail, the conquest of England in 1066, or the Domesday Book.

There is a great deal more to this iconic historical phenomenon than that. Exactly who were they, what did they achieve - did they have any weaknesses? - and crucially, what was their influence on territories they came to dominate?

In term two of our odyssey into the history of the Normans, we will follow them across Europe, from the Mediterranean to North Africa, the Middle East and the Black Sea - to name a few territories where they stamped their dominance.

Their widespread impact is a heady story of ambition, fearless exploration, ruthless acquisition, and transformation, which we will examine against the cultural and political context of their times.

It is hard to imagine such a mighty power in decline, but we will also explore the factors that led to their ‘disappearance’ from the international scene - whilst also acknowledging their long lasting impact on the dynasties and cultures that followed them.

How will the course be delivered?

The course will consist of twelve, two hour Zoom meetings beginning in January 2027; as well as the meetings you will receive regular email updates from the tutor, access to a dedicated WhatsApp group, and the opportunity to have sessions recorded if you can't make it to all of them.

Your tutor

Gill Rossini, BA, MA is a highly experienced and published historian who has been teaching in the post 18 sector since 1988. She is a past Tutor of the Year.

Delivered by Zoom