The Bayeux Tapestry

This is a welcome reprint of a title which first appeared in 1966 to mark the 900th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings. It says much for its enduring qualities that it can still hold its own amongst more recent publications. The tapestry is reproduced in full colour in its entirety in a volume measuring 10 x 8.5 inches without any diminution of its stunning visual impact. Every detail can be clearly seen - a tribute to modern production methods and the expertise of the original embroiderers! The authors have cleverly divided up 'the greatest strip cartoon known to us' so that it can be enjoyed by a wide age range. On each page or spread a few lines of uncomplicated prose enable young readers to follow the story, whilst accompanying paragraphs provide just enough background detail to enhance our understanding of events. Budding historians are also gently reminded that the tale is told from a Norman perspective, that many incidents which occurred over days or weeks are often compressed into one scene, that some explanations are partly guesswork, and that there is continuing speculation about which figure depicts the death of Harold. Perceptive readers might deliberate on the role of chance in this, as in so many great historical events. If the weather had been different we might never have had 1066 and all that!