Colleen J. (shukween) reviewed 1066 : The Hidden History in the Bayeux Tapestry on + 118 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Bridgeford's work, 1066 The Hidden History in the Bayeux Tapestry turns coventional tapestry thinking around to its mirror image. Specifically, he posits that the tapestry, long accepted as a Norman telling of the tale of the conquest and Battle of Hastings is not in fact told from the Norman point of view but rather is a work hidden with subversive clues in the embroidery that point to a designer of French, not Norman, sympathies. He weaves in sources that support this theory brilliantly, and asks penetrating questions. He excels at harkening back to what the designer's point of view might have been, rather than our modern view of events. It is an interesting and fairly quick read--a good balance between a purely academic work and one designed for mass consumption---and leaves the reader thinking. I recommend it.
Helpful Score: 1
This is an amazing book. Well written and engaging, it brings a pivotal year to life. So much of European history hinged on this year. And we can understand the how and why while reading an entertaining history book. This is not historical fiction. It is a history book, but the writing is so evocative that we see history unfolding. It inspired me to read several other books about the people and places mentioned. A wonderful book!
