Bayeux Tapestry Facts and Information
“I can’t even pronounce this chapter of history!” Rohan complained to Sir Dig a-Lot.
Sir Dig-a-Lot said, “Let me tell you about the Bayeux tapestry. Bayeux is a place in France and the tapestry is kept there.”
“All that is fine. What is a tapestry?” asked Rohan.
Sir Dig-a-Lot said, “It is a piece of a fabric which has designs formed by weaving coloured threads. The threads used are mostly made of silk and making a tapestry requires immense precision.
The Bayeux tapestry is nothing like a normal tapestry. The weaving is done using wool on bleached linen stuck together to form a canvas. The pictures on the tapestry tell the tale of William the Conqueror’s invasion of England, in 1066. The tapestry was probably made in the 1070s.”
“What does the tapestry show?” asked Rohan.
Sir Dig-a-Lot continued, “The pictures first show King of England, Edward the Confessor with Earl Harold Godwinson. Harold is then shown setting sail to Normandy, a part of France and meeting Duke William. The Duke takes Harold with him on a battle against Brittany, another part of France.
Harold fights bravely and then returns to England. Edward is shown on his deathbed and Harold is made the king of England. After this, William is shown preparing for an invasion, as Harold is a threat to him. William’s fleet lands in England, and a fierce battle starts. Harold is killed and William is crowned king. This is where the tapestry ends.”
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