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Year 10 - History

The Anglo-Norman Church

British depth study: Anglo-Saxon and Norman England, c1060–88

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils study an aspect of British medieval history in depth. They learn about the social, economic, religious and political events that influenced the lives of those who lived in this period.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain reasons for Norman reforms of the English Church.

Key Notes

  • 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.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • 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 Mistakes To Avoid

  • Medieval and modern Church power is equivalent.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Summarise this historical learning in two key ideas.

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.

2. Define this history term and explain why it matters in this topic. 'Normanisation'

Normanisation is the process of making something more similar to or typical of Norman styles, beliefs, customs, etc.

3. Correct this common history misconception using evidence language.

Mistake: Medieval and modern Church power is equivalent. Correction: Explicitly outline the Church's organisational power: land ownership, clergy social status, and spiritual authority.

More Lessons In This Unit

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