Holding the Heart of Savage: A Journey into the Violent and Unforgettable World of Conquest

In the annals of history, the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 stands as a watershed moment, marking the end of Anglo-Saxon rule and the beginning of a new era. Led by the ruthless and ambitious William the Conqueror, the Norman invasion was a brutal and bloody affair that left an indelible mark on the landscape of England.

In his gripping and unforgettable book, Holding the Heart of Savage, historian David Howarth vividly recreates the violence and brutality of the Norman Conquest, painting a vivid picture of a world where conquest was the ultimate goal and the lives of ordinary people were expendable.

Holding The Heart Of A Savage 2

by Jazz E

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2764 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	158 pages
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Howarth begins his narrative by describing the events leading up to the invasion, including the death of Edward the Confessor, the last Anglo-Saxon king, and the subsequent power struggle between Harold Godwinson and William of Normandy. He then follows the Norman army as they cross the Channel and land in England, detailing the major battles of the conquest, including the Battle of Hastings, where Harold was killed and William emerged victorious.

But Howarth does not simply recount the military history of the conquest. He also delves into the social and cultural impact of the invasion, exploring the ways in which the Normans transformed English society. He describes the confiscation of land from the Anglo-Saxons, the of a new feudal system, and the rise of a new Norman aristocracy. He also traces the development of a new English language and culture, as the Anglo-Saxons and Normans gradually intermingled.

Throughout his book, Howarth vividly portrays the violence and brutality of the conquest. He describes in graphic detail the horrors of war, including the slaughter of civilians, the burning of towns, and the rape of women. He also explores the psychological impact of the conquest on both the Normans and the Anglo-Saxons. He shows how the Normans were often driven by a lust for power and a desire for revenge, while the Anglo-Saxons were often filled with fear and despair.

Despite the violence and brutality of the conquest, Howarth also finds moments of humanity and compassion. He tells the story of a Norman soldier who risked his life to save an English woman from being raped. He also describes the efforts of some Normans to improve the lives of the Anglo-Saxons, such as the building of hospitals and schools.

In the end, Howarth argues that the Norman Conquest was a watershed moment in English history, a turning point that shaped the course of the nation for centuries to come. He shows how the conquest led to the creation of a new English nation, a nation that was both Norman and Anglo-Saxon, and that would go on to play a major role in world history.

Holding the Heart of Savage is a powerful and moving account of one of the most important events in English history. It is a book that will stay with you long after you finish it, a book that will challenge your understanding of conquest and violence, and a book that will ultimately leave you with a profound sense of awe and wonder.

About the Author

David Howarth (1912-1991) was a British historian and author. He was born in London and educated at Cambridge University. After graduating, he worked as a journalist and editor before becoming a full-time writer. Howarth wrote over 30 books on a wide range of historical subjects, including the Norman Conquest, the Crusades, and the Second World War. His books are known for their clarity, their attention to detail, and their ability to bring history to life.

Further Reading

• The Norman Conquest: A New History by Marc Morris
• The Bayeux Tapestry: A History and Interpretation by David Wilson
• The Battle of Hastings: A New History by Michael Wood
• The Anglo-Saxons: A History of the Beginnings of England by James Campbell

Holding The Heart Of A Savage 2

by Jazz E

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2764 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	158 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE