Death Of King Edward

Question 1

Norman inheritance belief

Answer 1

One promise made. This was final.

Question 2

Anglo-Saxon inheritance belief

Answer 2

Novissima verba (dying words)

Question 3

Benefits of Edgar Aethling

Answer 3

Closest blood relative, father named heir (1056), support from some Lords.

Question 4

Problems with Edgar Aethling

Answer 4

14 years old, no powerful supporters, limited money, no Housecarls or military experience.

Question 5

Benefits of Harold Hardrada

Answer 5

Grandson of Cnut (ruled 1016-1035), father had agreement with Harthacnut, experience soldier (Varangian Guard), North England still supported Scandinavia

Question 6

Problems with Harold Hardrada

Answer 6

Never been to England, worked with exile Tostito’s Godwinson

Question 7

Benefits of William, Duke of Normandy

Answer 7

Distant family link, good leader of Normandy, military experience, close relationship with Pope.

Question 8

Problems with William, Duke of Normandy

Answer 8

Illegitimate, Norman (unpopular), grew up in Normandy, helped exile Godwins (1051).

Question 9

How did William claim he was promised throne?

Answer 9

Earlier by Edward. Said Harold Godwinson promised to support him (1064).

Question 10

Benefits of Harold Godwinson

Answer 10

Richest man in England, ‘sub-regulus’ since 1060, sister married to Edward, supported by Witan, experienced military leader

Question 11

Problems with Harold Godwinson

Answer 11

Not blood related to Edward, some lords clashed with the Godwins

Question 12

How did Harold have a claim to the throne?

Answer 12

Novissima verba - claimed to be promised throne by Edward on his deathbed.