The Bayeux Tapestry may finally be displayed in the UK and we’re here to help you read up on the Battle of Hastings before it arrives.
At the moment the tapestry, which is over 950 years old, is on display in the town of Bayeux itself. French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to offer to loan it to the UK in a meeting with Theresa May this week.
The 70m tapestry depicts the lead-up to the Battle of Hastings, the battle itself and William I’s victory over King Harold II, known as the Norman conquest.
Some might say that the Bayeux Tapestry was the meme of its time – telling a story and ideas through pictures.
With that in mind, perhaps it needs a little updating for a millennial audience to connect with. Here are some memes you may recognise, given a Bayeux Tapestry makeover.
1. William I was preparing for battle after Harold II stole the throne
2. Even his doge was ready for a fight
3. It wouldn’t end well for Harold II
4. When Harold betrayed William and took the throne for himself
5. There were rumours that William had left the battlefield, but they were untrue
6. At first, it looked like Harold II and William I were going to be mates
7. The people of England were divided about who should be King
8. Some preferred Harold…
9. … but William and his invading forces won out
10. Success for William I
11. We all know who is really to blame for the thousands of deaths on October 14 1066
You can make your own memes of the tapestry’s characters here.
