How did the Anglo-Saxons keep law and order? Starter: Complete the crossword that is on your desk – each word relates to Anglo-Saxon society!

How did Edward run his kingdom? Anglo-Saxon England was the most advanced and well run country in Europe in the 11th Century. Edward maintained control through the use of a well constructed system of local government and laws. Each earldom was split up into shires, which had special functions (political, social and military) Shires were then divided up into smaller units of land called hundreds. To ensure the king’s interests were carried out, a Shire Reeve would be found in each shire.

Earldom Shire Shire Shire Earldom Shire Shire Reeve Hundred Tithing

Law and order The king made all laws in England in order to keep the peace. Anything that broke this peace was considered a crime. Crimes were often punished harshly (e.g. mutilation for theft) The King was supposed to treat everyone the same, regardless of their place in society. Exile was a very common punishment, as was execution (over the age of 16) Trial by ordeal was often used to determine guilt. http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/clips/zg697ty

The army Every man in the kingdom was expected to provide 40 days of military service when called upon. When the king demanded an army, each group of five hides would have to provide one man for the fyrd. Select Fyrd – gathered men who would fight anywhere in the kingdom. Generally made up of thegns and their followers. They would be heavily armoured and well equipped. General Fyrd – gathered men to fight who didn’t travel outside their area. Mostly peasants. Could not serve more than 40 days, as they would have to return to their farms.

Learning Tasks All Use the information in this lesson, as well as the handout your teacher has given you and p.16 of the textbook to complete your guided notes sheet. High Target ‘Edward’s kingdom was incredibly advanced for 11th Century Europe’ – is this a valid statement? Give examples to support your point. Medium Target For each of the following words, explain how it helped Edward control his kingdom: shire, hundred, tithing, hide, fyrd Low Target Define the following key terms without looking at your notes: shire, hundred, tithing, hide, fyrd