History of the Bayeux Tapestry

Name: History of the Bayeux Tapestry
Start: 2024-10-05T15:30:00-04:00
Location: Orringer Auditorium

Schedule

Sat Oct 05 2024 at 03:30 pm

UTC-04:00

Location

Orringer Auditorium | New Bern, NC

Free and open to the public
The Bayeux Tapestry, one of the best-preserved remnants of the Middle Ages, is a 227 foot long, 20-inch wide strip of embroidered linen depicting the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 - from events leading up to it through the Battle of Hastings, itself. Made shortly thereafter, the Tapestry brings the story to life in 72 scenes, literally history's first cartoon strip.
Dr. Caroline Paul's multimedia presentation will cover the events shown in the Tapestry about the contest for the throne of England between Harold Godwinson, an English earl (later king) and William, the Duke of Normandy. It is a tale of ambition, heroic bravery, armed conflict and possible treachery culminating in a bloody battle for a kingdom. The talk will go on to tell the story of the Tapestry itself and its many adventures through the ages from an obscure artifact of medieval times to a coveted propaganda tool, to an invaluable historical treasure appreciated the world over today - a tale of miraculous survival.
For those of who are interested in embroidery, Caroline will also describe how the Tapestry was created and present an exact replica of one of its scenes which she has stitched herself.