William, Duke of Normandy: Triumphs, Betrayals, and Conquests

William, the illegitimate son of Duke Robert, rose from a fugitive to a powerful warlord in France. He overcame Norman rebels with King Henry's help, later defeating Henry himself. William consolidated power by exiling opponents and securing Upper Normandy. He strategically engaged Geoffrey of Anjou, leading to the Battle of Varaville, where he decisively defeated King Henry. Post-battle, William expanded his influence, securing Maine and preparing for further conquests.

What was the relationship between William and Duke Robert?

• William was Duke Robert's nephew.

• William was Duke Robert's legitimate son.

• William was Duke Robert's illegitimate son.

• William was Duke Robert's brother.

How did William strengthen his hold over Upper Normandy?

• By forming alliances with foreign powers.

• By awarding lands to trusted supporters.

• By marrying into a powerful family.

• By building a series of fortresses.

What was the outcome of William's initial conflict with Geoffrey of Anjou?

• A temporary peace was established.

• Geoffrey was captured and imprisoned.

• William was defeated and forced to retreat.

• William expanded his territory significantly.

What strategy did William use to counter King Henry's invasion?

• He allowed the army to penetrate deep before striking.

• He fortified his castles and waited.

• He sought help from neighboring kingdoms.

• He launched a direct attack on Paris.

What was the significance of the river crossing battle?

• It was a decisive victory that solidified William's power.

• It led to William's capture and ransom.

• It marked the end of William's campaign.

• It was a minor skirmish with little impact.

What happened to King Henry after the defeat at the river crossing?

• He was captured by William.

• He withdrew from Normandy permanently.

• He launched another invasion immediately.

• He formed an alliance with William.

What event marked the end of hostilities between William and King Henry?

• The death of King Henry.

• The capture of Paris by William.

• The marriage of William to a French princess.

• The signing of a formal peace treaty.

How did William prepare for his campaign into Maine?

• By negotiating with the Pope.

• By hiring mercenaries from England.

• By forming alliances and recalling exiled lords.

• By building a large fleet.

What was the outcome of William's campaign in Maine?

• He abandoned the campaign due to lack of resources.

• He successfully subdued the region.

• He established a puppet ruler in Maine.

• He was defeated and forced to retreat.

What was William's next target after securing Normandy and Maine?

• The Italian city-states.

• The English throne.

• The Spanish territories.

• The Holy Roman Empire.