Talk: The Bayeux Tapestry and the Battle of Hastings
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In this exciting talk for the Dorchester-Bayeux Society, military historian Lt Col (Retired) James Porter will speak about the Bayeux Tapestry and the Battle of Hastings with images from the Tapestry describing the epic events of 1066.
The talk will describe the social and political background situation in England and Normandy and what led up to the momentous battle of 1066.
James will provide a wealth of illustrative images from the Bayeux Tapestry to describe the events of that year, including the construction of William’s invasion fleet of close to 800 vessels; King Harold’s great victory of 1066 when he vanquished the Vikings in the Battle of Stamford Bridge; and the Norman invasion of England. Perhaps this was a more subtle version of a Viking invasion, since the Normans – Norsemen, men from the north – had their origins in Scandinavia.
James will employ his knowledge of military tactics to examine the strategies of the two great commanders, and the battle itself in detail together with its outcome and consequences. He will also tell us the story of the almost 1000-year-old Tapestry and how it came to be housed in Bayeux.
About the speaker:
James Porter is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel with a long and impressive military career. An excellent speaker, he is head of the Wessex Military History Group and an associate member of the International Guild of Battlefield Guides.
Hosted by Dorchester Bayeux Society in partnership with Dorset Museum and Art Gallery.
For more information about the talk and ticketing, contact Gareth Jones at dbschair2021@gmail.com / telephone 01305 854915.
