The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy

The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.

Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.

Biography of Anne Lea aka Merritt 1844-1930

Anne Lea aka Merritt is in Painters.

On 13th September 1844 Anne Lea aka Merritt was born to a Quaker couple Joseph Lea and Susanna Massey. She was the eldest of six sisters.

In 1865 the family of Anne Lea aka Merritt [aged 20] moved to Europe, settling in London in 1870.

1870s. Anne Lea aka Merritt [aged 25]. Portrait of William Boxall [aged 69].

William Boxall: On 29th June 1800 he was born. On 6th December 1879 he died. In 1886 he was appointed Director of the National Gallery which role he held for eight years.

1877. Anne Lea aka Merritt [aged 32]. Portrait of [his future husband] Henry Merritt [aged 55].

Henry Merritt: In 1822 he was born. On 17th April 1877 he and Anne Lea aka Merritt were married. He died three months later. She did not marry again. The difference in their ages was 22 years. On 10th July 1877 he died.

On 17th April 1877 Henry Merritt [aged 55] and Anne Lea aka Merritt [aged 32] were married. He died three months later. She did not marry again. The difference in their ages was 22 years.

After the death of her husband in April 1877, Anne Lea aka Merritt [aged 32] lived the rest of her life at 95 Cheyne Walk, Chelsea. She made frequent trips between her home in England and the United States; she had exhibitions, garnered awards in both countries, and become a celebrated artist.

On 10th July 1877 [his husband] Henry Merritt [aged 55] died.

1880. Anne Lea aka Merritt [aged 35]. "Ophelia".

1884s. Anne Lea aka Merritt [aged 39]. Portrait of Lambton Loraine 11th Baronet [aged 45]xSR0d9gZ.

1885. Anne Lea aka Merritt [aged 40]. "Eve Overcome with Remorse".

1890. Anne Lea aka Merritt [aged 45]. "Love Locked Out".

1892. Anne Lea aka Merritt [aged 47]. Portrait of Marion Edith Waugh [aged 45].

On 7th April 1930 Anne Lea aka Merritt [aged 85] died.