William the Conqueror

Twelve English Statesmen

by Edward Augustus Freeman

In Edward A. Freeman's 'William the Conqueror,' readers are treated to a detailed account of the life and times of William I of England. Written in a scholarly tone, the book delves into the political, military, and social aspects of William's reign, providing a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal historical figure. Freeman's narrative style is both engaging and informative, making this book a valuable resource for students and scholars alike in the field of medieval history. The author's meticulous research and attention to detail ensure that readers gain a nuanced perspective on William's conquest and its lasting impact on England. By contextualizing William within the broader history of the period, Freeman offers a well-rounded exploration of the Conqueror's legacy. Scholars and enthusiasts of medieval history will find 'William the Conqueror' to be a captivating and insightful read, shedding light on one of the most influential rulers of the medieval era.

Genres: History, Biography, British Literature

194 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 16, 2022

About the author

English historian, architectural artist, and Liberal politician, as well as a one-time candidate for Parliament. He held the position of Regius Professor of Modern History at Oxford.

Reviews

[Tweety · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2

I admit I went into this fully intending to enjoy it, and I did. Freeman paints a realist portrait of William the Great, maybe it is a tad rosy, maybe he really was just and intelligent. I like that at the bottom of nearly every page there were extensive footnotes giving you extra details on the history of a particular person, event or debate.

If there were doubts on some part of the narrative the book said so. (It gave the whys and wherefores of the situation as it is known) It may be outdated, I couldn't say as it's the only book I have read on William, but that it is well written I can say and though it's more an overview of his life, it is not a rushed overview. I feel that I can recommend it as it isn't dry, waffley or bogged down with details. I knocked a half star off as I would have liked a bit more of his personal history, his wife Matilda is mentioned exactly four perhaps five times, and as they had several children I would have liked to at least know when those children where born, what their name's were and so on. Yes, I would reread it.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall an interesting read, as most people I had rough information about William the Conqueror before reading, and this book gave further insight into not just his conquest but his life and what made him who he was. It takes you through the events leading up to the conquest, the conquest, the times of his reign as King of England and then finishes on his death. It gave a lot of information I was was unaware of, however I found it a hard read, a bit heavy (which you'd expect) I'd have to read in sessions with gaps in-between but the hardest points were when for the most part the book is in chronological order which helps it flow but then at points it jump about for example one chapter was talking about events in 1081 and then it would start discussing events that occured in 1071 made it hard to separate the events discussed.

[William Dicks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is certainly not a hagiography of William the Conqueror. This book points to his greatness, and to his flaws. It shows how the foundations that he laid, helped towards the greatness of England centuries later.

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gives you the known information, and the legends, and the possibilities of truth in them. I read this right before seeing the Bayeux Tapestry and found it added to the experience

[Jaimie Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love learning about history that is tied to my family.

[Phil Syphe · Rating 2 out of 5]

Must confess to skipping numerous paragraphs of this biography. With it being relatively short I’d hoped for a concise and engaging account of one of my country’s most famous kings, but instead I found it dull and rambling.

Like many nineteenth-century biographers, the author always opts for the passive voice, never the active: “The Welsh expedition of William” as opposed to “William’s Welsh expedition” and “The mind of William” instead of “William’s mind”.

This doesn’t make for smooth reading. In fact, “The country of Matilda”, as opposed to “Matilda’s country”, carries the ambiguity that in the 1000s there was a country called Matilda.

I’m sure there are more modern biographies available on William the Conqueror, so only read this one if you want a freebie.

[Calahir · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good book for British people or others interested in the story of William or the period. Not that enjoyable for people unfamiliar with the topic.

[Vicky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really interesting read