The Bayeux Tapestry Explained: The British Museum's Brilliant Animated Guide to 1066

William the Conqueror, 1066 – played on the Saxons cruel tricks. I don’t know if you are old enough to remember the first lines of a poem I was forced to learn at school which detailed several important historical dates, beginning with the Norman invasion of England, but this video will help explain the cruel tricks.  I for one truly wish this has been around in my childhood! The British Museum (aided and abetted by Hocus Pocus Studio) have created this fantastic, animated explanation of the Bayeux Tapestry, telling the story from the beginning to (for the Saxons at least) its bitter end.   It really brings the tapestry to life and the narration by Claudia Winkelman (an English broadcaster and writer immensely famous in the UK zips through the history with ease (and the occasional knowing wink to the audience).

The video is designed for anyone 11 and over who is interested in finding out the story of the Bayeux Tapestry as well as some of the facts and figures associated with it.  It doesn’t patronise, but it explains what the tapestry is and why it is such an extraordinary testament to William the Conqueror.  As a big kid in adult disguise, I found this immensely entertaining.  

The video was created to accompany the British Museum’s hosting of the Bayeux Tapestry.  This will end on 11 July so get your skates on if you still want to see the real thing before it returns home to France. In the meantime, watch the video below.