In 1066 England faces a succession crisis after King Edward's death; three claimants—including Harold Godwinson and William, Duke of Normandy—vie for the throne.
The episode follows Harold's rapid marches, the Battle of Hastings, and William's victory and coronation, then describes Norman rule: dispossession of English nobles, castle-building, the Domesday Book, and cultural change.
It explains how conquest replaced peaceful succession and set a precedent for rule by force, shaping the future of the English monarchy.
Jan 15 20267 mins