The Medieval 'Marches' of Normandy and Wales
Max Lieberman
This article explores the striking links and parallels which existed between frontiers of Normandy Wales, particularly 1066 1204. It takes its cue from fact that both were identified as ‘marches’ at time. argues while frontier was not a precursor March experiences made by Normans on their ‘home frontier’ did help shape contribution to making Welsh March. Moreover, this essay contends during twelfth century, borders Wales evolved, in important respects, along similar lines. Thus, came be characterized an exceptional density castles uniquely long-established castellan dynasties controlling compact lordships (to best ability). By 1204, these features had helped foster notion marches kinds frontiers, despite differences undeniably them. implication, famous liberties Marcher lords were, first, irrelevant concept ‘march’ Wales. supports Professor Sir Rees Davies’s view only became issue thirteenth century. Finally, therefore, it very shared Norman ‘marches’, rather than claims immunity, first paved way for inclusion conquest southern within region Marchia Wallie.
The English Historical Review|Zurich Open Repository and Archive (University of Zurich)