3485 - The Bayeux Tapestry: What it is, and what it isn't (Peter Campos)
Course Description
Instructor: Peter Campos
The Bayeux Tapestry is a vital source of information about the most famous event in England’s history: The Battle of Hastings in 1066. In this one-day class, we will learn of its origin and creation; explore its major and minor sections, the Latin headings, and dramatic scenes; and learn about the depicted people, animals, and places. Who commissioned it and who created it? Was it an accurate historical record of that watershed event, or just Norman propaganda? What’s with the stylized images, mythological beasts, and nudity shown on the top and bottom margins? How well does it portray the events and material integral to the invasion and battle? How did this fragile 200-foot coil of cloth remain in almost perfect condition for over 950 years? I’ll share with you some key sources of information (a sliver of over 400 books written on the subject!) and pointers about visiting the Tapestry and its replicas today.
Bio: I was trained as a Clinical Psychologist, and I was formerly on faculty at Emory Medical School’s Psychiatry Department and SUNY-Binghamton’s Psychology Department. I taught undergraduate and graduate level courses in psychology, health, and statistical methods for over 40 years but my “passion subjects” have interested me most of my life, such as Roman and English history and travelogues. I look forward to sharing these topics with you at OLLI @ Emory.