Research Proposal
The Bayeux Tapestry: A Mechanism of Propaganda
Matthew Ciotti
Art to the 15th Century
The Bayeux Tapestry, despite its’ iconic name is in actuality a series of embroidered scenes on canvas. The Tapestry presents a series of events during the years 1064-1066. Notwithstanding the fact that the tapestry itself is contemporaneous with the events it depicts, the authenticity of its’ narrative has been called into question many times since its’ origin.1 The Tapestry represents series of events leading up to the Norman invasion and subsequent conquest of Britain. However, it remains less than clear as to the actual purpose of the Tapestry; maybe it simply restating the events that happened or did it have a more political …show more content…
The vivid narrative seems designed to paint William Duke of Normandy as a hero who is supported by the true and divine church, while at the same time also not depicting Harold Earl of Wessex, an ardent enemy of William, in too offending a light. In the scene in which Harold makes a promise to William, this agreement is shown as a lavish ceremony with many observers. This “covenant” is sanctified by its’ location in front of an altar, and in full view of several holy relics. The setting of this event highlights its’ importance and signifies it as the harbinger of the events to follow in the year 1066.4 As a result the Bayeux Tapestry was able to successfully reinforce William’s newfound throne and quell Harold’s large base of supporters. The Tapestry became more than just a piece of art, it became a symbol of power and authority.5 Many of the scenes in the work sanction the acts of William and his take over of the English throne. Contrarily, some of the registers in the tapestry elude to Christ’s ‘Harrowing of Hell’, drawing attention to the defeated Harold, one of the nobles competing for the throne, rather than to William. 7 These varying sympathetic points of view make it difficult to determine what the purpose (propaganda-wise) of the tapestry
The Bayeux Tapestry: A Mechanism of Propaganda
Matthew Ciotti
Art to the 15th Century
The Bayeux Tapestry, despite its’ iconic name is in actuality a series of embroidered scenes on canvas. The Tapestry presents a series of events during the years 1064-1066. Notwithstanding the fact that the tapestry itself is contemporaneous with the events it depicts, the authenticity of its’ narrative has been called into question many times since its’ origin.1 The Tapestry represents series of events leading up to the Norman invasion and subsequent conquest of Britain. However, it remains less than clear as to the actual purpose of the Tapestry; maybe it simply restating the events that happened or did it have a more political …show more content…
The vivid narrative seems designed to paint William Duke of Normandy as a hero who is supported by the true and divine church, while at the same time also not depicting Harold Earl of Wessex, an ardent enemy of William, in too offending a light. In the scene in which Harold makes a promise to William, this agreement is shown as a lavish ceremony with many observers. This “covenant” is sanctified by its’ location in front of an altar, and in full view of several holy relics. The setting of this event highlights its’ importance and signifies it as the harbinger of the events to follow in the year 1066.4 As a result the Bayeux Tapestry was able to successfully reinforce William’s newfound throne and quell Harold’s large base of supporters. The Tapestry became more than just a piece of art, it became a symbol of power and authority.5 Many of the scenes in the work sanction the acts of William and his take over of the English throne. Contrarily, some of the registers in the tapestry elude to Christ’s ‘Harrowing of Hell’, drawing attention to the defeated Harold, one of the nobles competing for the throne, rather than to William. 7 These varying sympathetic points of view make it difficult to determine what the purpose (propaganda-wise) of the tapestry