Rollo's Influence On Normandy

away the general population. Rollo set out from start to rebuild monasteries and temples. It was evident Rollo knew the importance of religion in a community. The people of Normandy take part in pilgrimages, support reforms, and even lead Crusades. Brown states “By the mid-tenth century the Norman dukes, at least, had come to subscribe to the almost universal respect held by civilized contemporaries for monasticism as a vital social function and superior way of life.” In later progression of the house, future dukes are seen restoring monasticism and indulging themselves in the study of the monks.
The ability to adapt not only culturally but politically was vital to the success of the House of Normandy. Early on, Rollo saw the benefits of a …show more content…
In this span of forty years, Normandy individualized itself from the Franks. His focus on the political structure and its role in legitimizing Normand power proved successful. In the latter part of 960’s, Richard changed the ideological strategy of the court to appeal to incoming warriors which reinvented the Duchy of Normandy. The failures of his predecessors provided Richard I with the knowledge to solidify his families rule. The model of political structure Rollo and William Longsword made their courts less unified with more individually concerned earls. By promoting a sense of Norman identity, it would help provide a chance for …show more content…
Richard II was referred to “true count of Roen” by Glaber. The perspectives of the French can be seen accepting of the Norman leaders for legitimizing their power through religion and politics. Richard II emphasis on recording history of the house is important in building a cultural identity. He commissioned Dudo of St. Quentin to write the history. His work is regarded by most historians as unreliable in some facets of early Normandy, due to his commission of illustrating the Christian morals of Rollo and William Longsword. Richard II was able to build alliances through the marriage of his sister Emma to Ethelred of Wessex. This marriage proved key to Richard II’s grandson, William’s, claim to the throne of England. Through his marriage, he created an alliance with Brittany with the acceptance of the Duke of Brittany’s sister. His religious interest through his support Robert II the Pious, King of the Franks. His biggest contribution to Norman Monasticism was his role in persuading Cluniac reformer, William of Volpiano, to bring monks to settle at his church called Fecamp. By attracting this prestigious figure to his land he was able to build a respected establishment of monasteries. This establishment led to religious ties to the feudal system along with a growing connection between the Catholic