Year 10 - History
Durham Cathedral and continuity and change in Norman England
Durham Cathedral
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Study Guides
This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit, pupils learn about the historical environment, choosing the relevant site study to complement their understanding of Norman England.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to use examples from Durham Cathedral as evidence of continuity and change in Norman England.
Key Notes
- Durham Cathedral was built in a Romanesque style symbolising the dominance and permanence of Norman rule.
- Durham Cathedral incorporated some Anglo-Saxon traditions of church design and was used as a shrine to St Cuthbert.
- The personnel of Durham Cathedral demonstrated Norman political authority in England.
- Durham Cathedral had a fortified setting because it was located in the border region.
- Durham Cathedral reflected Norman religious values including a stricter adherence to Benedictine monasticism.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Romanesque: the style of building that was fashionable in Western Europe which recalled the power of the Roman Empire
- basilica: a large oblong church that was round at one end; the interior had two rows of columns supporting the roof
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- All Anglo-Saxon prelates (Church leaders) were replaced by Normans.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Summarise this historical learning in two key ideas.
Durham Cathedral was built in a Romanesque style symbolising the dominance and permanence of Norman rule. Durham Cathedral incorporated some Anglo-Saxon traditions of church design and was used as a shrine to St Cuthbert.
2. Define this history term and explain why it matters in this topic. 'Romanesque'
the style of building that was fashionable in Western Europe which recalled the power of the Roman Empire.
3. Correct this common history misconception using evidence language.
Mistake: All Anglo-Saxon prelates (Church leaders) were replaced by Normans. Correction: Although most bishops and priors were replaced, especially those involved in rebellion, those accused of simony or pluralism and those already married, others were not. The first prior appointed by William St Calais was an Anglo-Saxon called Alwin.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Durham before the Norman Conquest Study Guide
- Durham Cathedral - historical context themes Study Guide
- Durham Cathedral - sources and historical context Study Guide
- Durham Cathedral and Norman government Study Guide
- Durham Cathedral: structuring your answer to the historic environment question Study Guide
- The design of Durham Cathedral Study Guide
- The king and the bishops of Durham Study Guide
- The religious function of Durham Cathedral Study Guide
- The significance of Saint Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede Study Guide
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