Confrontation and Unification: Approaches to the Political History of Normandy, 911-1035
Mark Hagger
There has been a lot of work on the political history Normandy in recent years, and this is changing understanding duchy's origins development. Some examined actions, relationships settlement Vikings years prior to ‘treaty Saint-Clair-sur-Epte’ inception (traditionally dated 911). The conditions that allowed under Rollo embed themselves local society have explored, it become clear Northmen were well-established region long before their was officially recognized by Charles Simple. narrative sources which provide foundation for any Normandy, particularly Dudo Saint-Quentin's Historia Normannorum or De moribus et actis primorum Normanniae ducum, also focus great deal work. Dudo's intentions discussed at length, while provision historically accurate account not among them, his can now be used suggest something ambitions Duke Richard II concerns those Franks who came into contact with him warriors. Until 1970s, historians thought created swiftly unified from outset. Now, much more nuanced view forming, sees establishment as slow process confrontation unification. Chance gave dukes dominion over Bretons them take hold Avranchin. Elsewhere, going harder. Confrontation lords Bellême counts Chartres led stalemate. Within frontiers thus established, had fight make authority reality weld family observed Ralph Glaber later 1030s – although what did know duchy still taken its final form date.
History Compass