BATTLE, HASTINGS
LIVE BATTLES This year’s re-enactment will be particularly epic, with weaponry production and medieval falconry
The backdrop was the disputed crown of Edward the Confessor. His death in January 1066, having left far-from-clear instructions for his succession, was the crucible in which a perilous uncertainty for England was forged – had he promised the throne to Harold Godwinson on his deathbed, as Harold asserted? Or had he, years before, vowed to pass it on to the Norman duke William? And what of the Viking Harald Hardrada, also aggrieved to be overlooked as heir?