Research on Lost Papal Letter Sheds Light on the Norman Conquest

<p>A lost letter from Pope Alexander II may provide new insights into the events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, according to research from the University of East Anglia announced in August.</p><p>Professor Tom Licence discovered previously overlooked excerpts from the letter, which was preserved in the Vatican archives. The letter suggests that Pope Alexander II may have supported William the Conqueror's invasion of England because the English had aligned with his rival, the antipope Honorius II.</p><p>In the letter, Alexander described England as being led astray by an "evil head" and referred to the English as "followers of Satan," indicating a potential religious dimension to the conflict.</p><p>The Battle of Hastings, a pivotal battle in English history, has traditionally been viewed as a dispute over the rightful claim to the English throne between King Harold II and William of Normandy. However, Licence argues that the events of 1066 may have been influenced by the power struggle between Pope Alexander II and Honorius II.</p><p>Licence's research posits that England may have sided with Honorius, which could have motivated Alexander to support the Norman invasion. He noted that while he was not surprised by the connection, many historians may not have considered the papal dynamics at play during this period.</p><p>Honorius II, although less known, was a significant figure in the papal power struggle, and Licence indicated that his influence persisted even after his position weakened in 1064. He stated, "Read in that context, the letter from Pope Alexander about England being led astray under an 'evil head' made sense at last. It was never clear to historians in the past what Alexander was referring to."</p><p>Licence expressed confidence that England distanced itself from Alexander II, which he described as a "withdrawal of support," although he noted it is less clear if England openly declared support for Honorius.</p><p>He emphasized that his dual specialization in ecclesiastical history and the Norman Conquest allowed him to make this connection, stating, "Sometimes it just takes someone to come along and join the dots."</p><p>Licence concluded that his findings alter the understanding of Alexander's motives in 1066, suggesting that he sought regime change in England. The findings are detailed in Licence's new book, "Harold: Warrior King."</p>