“The main aim of William I’s foreign policy was to protect his conquest of England.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that William I’s foreign policy was defensive. Foreign policy issues to consider could include relations with Scotland, Wales, France, Flanders and Denmark. Rebellions in and attacks on Normandy could also be considered, for example in 1078 the French supported William’s son, Robert, in his rebellion. To support the statement candidates could discuss William I’s actions to prevent Scottish expansion in Cumbria and Northumbria. Similarly, he was anxious to resist potential threats from Denmark. Norman policy towards Wales was conducted more by the Marcher Lords who attempted to prevent Welsh incursions and who made some advances in South Wales. Some may argue that William was more concerned with his Norman territories than England. However, a counter argument is that a strong Normandy acted as protection from any aggression against England, which is why he had to deal effectively with rebellions. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the main aim of William's l's foreign policy was to protect his conquest of England. Few responses were seen to this question. However, there was some good knowledge shown of his foreign policy related to Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Denmark and France.