The Lives of the Three Norman Kings of England The Lives if the III. Normans, Kings of England: William the first. William the second. Henrie the first.

(Sir) John Hayward

R. B. (Robert Baker), London

1613

Contemporary Vellum Binding

Since the events of 1066, many English historians and writers of popular histories have characterized William the Conqueror as an upstart Norman Duke, the bastard son of Duke Robert I, and the person who defeated the English King Harold by luck. My research associate, Allison Sugiyama, also has a submission in this exhibit. Both are related to the evaluation of evidence in our research. When an English author cites events favorable to the Norman duke, we take note of that author.

Such was the case when, in 1613, Sir John Hayward wrote of Duke William and the 1054 battle between Normandy and the King of France. William passed up a possible chance of slaying the king, because he could foresee greater strategic value in securing a treaty of peace. The French king seized the opportunity and subsequently aided Duke William. It is a fact that William could be ruthless, but it seems only when he was convinced it was necessary, unlike his 1066 English adversary, King Harold.

Our copy of Sir John Hayward’s History is a unique survivor, its vellum binding being contemporary to the time. As with other items related to our research, it is an inspiration to read the above perspective of Duke William on pages Shakespeare could have read from three years before he passed from this life. The inspiration of such artifacts is an aspect of our collecting of books and maps.

Charles Adams Kelly