The story told on the famous Bayeux tapestry explained from start to finish

by Finn Patraic

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They say that history is written by the winners, but it is not always true: sometimes it is embroidered by the winners. This was the case with the Bayeux tapestrywhich commemorates the accumulation and successful execution of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Created shortly after the events he depicts in what we now call the United Kingdom, the fabric almost 230 feet long was maintained in France for most of its existence. But as Reported by Isa Farfan to HyperallergicThe Bayeux tapestry is now planned for a year -long stay in its homeland, and in an institution no less from August than the British Museum, after having spent most of a millennium abroad.

In a style that can strike viewers of the 21st century as a predecessor of the graphic novel – or even direct comics, with its grotesque exaggerations – William's victory conquer it men and horses to cross the Channel and for success claimed the throne of the last Anglo -Saxon King, Harold Godwinson. »»

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All this takes place on “58 scenes featuring more than 600 people in wool and 200 horses. Although it focuses on the historical battle, embroidery also reveals lighting of a broader life of the 11th century, including architecture and armor, and includes nearly 400 Latin words accompanying the images. ”

These words are interpreted by Youtuber Lindybeige in The video abovewhich offers a humorous tour of the entire length of the Bayeux tapestry – or, in any case, a very narrow replica made in England in the middle of the 19th century. The development of its treatment stresses that the Norman conquest was one of the most important events, if not the most important event, of all English history; The magnitude of its glorification stresses how the conquerors felt the need to legitimize their rule. Nothing would ever be the same for English culture, English law and even, as recently presented here on open culture, English language. If you are going to London next year to see the Bayeux tapestry for yourself, you will hear the usual ambients growled on the state of England-with a refreshment accent, perhaps, how all this happened after 1066.

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Based in Seoul, Colin MArshall Written and broadcastTS on cities, language and culture. His projects include the substack newsletter Books on cities And the book The stateless city: a walk through Los Angeles from the 21st century. Follow it on the social network formerly known as Twitter in @ColinmArshall.

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