The Gesta Guillelmi of William of Poitiers

Description:

William of Poitiers began his career as a knight before studying in the schools of Poitiers and entering the Church. He became a chaplain in the household of William the Conqueror, and was able to give a first-hand account of the events of 1066-7. The Gesta Guillelmi, his unfinished biography of the king, is particularly important for its detailed description of William's campaigns in Normandy, the careful preparations he made for the invasion of England, the battle of Hastings and the establishment of Norman power after the Conquest. It is a mine of information of military tactics and the conduct of war in the eleventh century. Though written from the point of view of the Norman court, it gives what is probably the most authentic account of these momentous events. This edition, by the late R. H. C. Davis and Marjorie Chibnall, with facing-page English translation of the Latin text, provides the first complete English translation, as well as a full historical introduction and detailed notes. - Publisher.

subjects: Early works to 1800,  Biography,  Kings and rulers,  Nobility,  Conquerors,  History,  Normans,  William i, king of england, 1027 or 1028-1087,  Great britain, history, medieval period, 1066-1485,  Military history,  Normans, great britain

People: William I King of England (1027 or 8-1087)

Places: Great Britain,  Normandy,  France

Times: William I, 1066-1087