Anglo Saxon society, the last years of Edward the Confessor and the succession crisis
Anglo-Saxon Society
- Feudal System: Society was structured in a hierarchy called the Feudal System. It was headed by the king, followed by the earls, then thegns (warriors and landowners), and finally ceorls (freemen).
- Earls: They were immensely powerful figures appointed by the king, given the responsibility of ruling large areas known as earldoms.
- Thegns and Ceorls: Thegns were noblemen who served and fought for their king or earl, while ceorls were free peasant farmers. Most people in Anglo-Saxon England belonged to this bottom class.
- Women in Society: Women had limited rights in Anglo-Saxon England. Although some queens and noblewomen held power, most women were reliant on their male relatives.
The last years of Edward the Confessor
- Childless Rule: King Edward the Confessor died in January 1066 without any direct heir, leading to a power vacuum and the succession crisis.
- Implementation of Laws: Edward's reign was marked by his work for law enforcement and his deep devotion to the Church.
- Relations with Normandy: Edward's associations with Normandy, including his exile there and his promise to William of Normandy that he would be his successor, dramatically influenced the succession crisis.
The Succession Crisis
- Claimants to the Throne: There were several potential successors including Harold Godwinson (Edward’s brother-in-law), William Duke of Normandy, and Harald Hardrada of Norway.
- Harold Godwinson’s Crowning: Upon Edward's death, Harold Godwinson swiftly secured the support of the Witan (the council of advisors) and was crowned King Harold II, escalating the succession crisis.
- Norman and Viking Invasions: The succession crisis culminated in the invasion of England in 1066 by both William of Normandy (the Norman Invasion) and Harald Hardrada (the Viking Invasion). However, it was William who would eventually seize the throne.