The tapestry’s narrative serves multiple purposes: it legitimizes William’s claim to the English throne, portrays Harold as an oath-breaker who betrayed William, and glorifies the Norman victory. It is propaganda as well as a historical record.
The Story Depicted on the Tapestry
The Bayeux Tapestry begins with scenes showing Edward the Confessor, the King of England, sending Harold Godwinson to Normandy, presumably to pledge support to William for the English throne. However, Harold is later shown swearing an oath to William, which he later breaks by accepting the crown himself after Edward’s death.
The tapestry then chronicles the preparations for the invasion, including the gathering of the Norman fleet and the crossing of the English Channel. The central and most famous part of the tapestry depicts the Battle of Hastings, where the Norman cavalry and archers ultimately overcome Harold’s Anglo-Saxon infantry, who are depicted with their characteristic shield wall.
The tapestry concludes with the death of King Harold, shown with an arrow in his eye, and William’s coronation as King of England. shutdown123