William I and the succession Flashcards

All 7 cards in this deck

Give one reason for the bad relationship between William I and his son Robert.

William refused to give Robert real control of Normandy, believing he was not ready; he also bullied him with the nickname 'Curthose'.

What happened in Robert's revolt in Normandy (1077–80)?

Robert attacked Normandy from a border castle given to him by the French king, and in battle he unhorsed his father, forcing William to retreat.

When and how did William I die?

On 9 September 1087, from internal injuries received when he was thrown against his saddle at the siege of Mantes.

True or false? William I left the throne of England to his eldest son, Robert.

False. England went to his second surviving son, William Rufus (William II); Robert received Normandy and Henry was left silver.

What was the rebellion of 1088?

A revolt led by Bishop Odo to make Robert king of England. William Rufus defeated it, and Odo lost his English lands and was exiled.

Give one reason William Rufus defeated Odo's rebellion of 1088.

Any one of: Robert Curthose never came from Normandy to back the rebels; many Norman barons and nearly all the bishops stayed loyal to Rufus; English troops, including the fyrd, fought for Rufus.

Why did some Norman barons want Robert Curthose, not William Rufus, as king of England in 1087?

Robert was the eldest son and they had sworn loyalty to him, and they wanted England and Normandy under one ruler so they would not owe service to two lords.