Harold in Normandy

In 1064 Harold Godwinson met William, Duke of Normandy. Historical sources that have survived from this period give different reasons for this meeting. Some sources claim that strong winds forced the ship that Harold was on into a harbour controlled by Count Guy of Ponthieu. Harold was taken prisoner and then handed over to William.

However, Norman sources such as those written by William of Poitiers and William of Jumieges, claim that Harold Godwinson was sent to Normandy by Edward the Confessor to confirm that William was to become the next king of England. While there, Harold swore fealty to William and promised to be faithful to the future king.

(S1) Writing on the Bayeux Tapestry (c. 1090)

Section 1: Edward the Confessor sends Harold to inform William that he will succeed to the throne of England.

Section 14: Negotiations between William and Harold. William's daughter, Aelfgyve, is promised in marriage to Harold.

Section 22: They go to Bayeux together. Touching two reliquaries, Harold swears fealty to William.

(S2) William of Poitiers, The History of William the Conqueror (c. 1073)

Edward, king of the English, who had already established William as his heir and whom he loved as a brother or a son. To confirm his promise to William he sent to him Harold, of all his subjects the greatest in riches.

(S3) William of Jumieges, Deeds of the Dukes of the Normans (c. 1070)

Edward, king of the English, lacking an heir sent Duke Harold, the greatest of all the earls to swear fealty to William, Duke of Normandy concerning Edward's crown. Harold remained with the duke for some time, and swore fealty concerning the kingdom with many oaths, before being sent back to the king laden with gifts.