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.
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John Astley is in Painters.
On 24th June 1724 John Astley was born at Wem, Shropshire.
Letters of Horace Walpole. 27th July 1752. Your painter Astley [aged 28] is arrived: I have missed seeing him by being constantly at Strawberry Hill, but I intend to serve him to the utmost of my power, as you will easily believe, since he has your recommendation.
Before 1758 William Dukinfield-Daniel 3rd Baronet [aged 32] and [his future wife] Penelope Vernon [aged 35] were married.
On 7th December 1759 John Astley [aged 35] and Penelope Vernon [aged 37] were married at St Mary's Church, Rostherne, Tatton [Map]. She died three years later at which time he became the owner of the Dukinfield and Daniel estates, including Gorse Hall. When his step-daughter Henrietta Dukinfield-Daniel died in 1771 he received further wealth.
On 31st January 1762 [his wife] Penelope Vernon [aged 40] died.
In 1777 John Astley [aged 52] and Mary Wagstaffe [aged 16] were married. The difference in their ages was 36 years.
Before 1787. John Astley [aged 62]. Portrait of George Byng 4th Viscount Torrington [aged 46].
George Byng 4th Viscount Torrington: On 11th October 1740 he was born to George Byng 3rd Viscount Torrington. On 7th April 1750 George Byng 3rd Viscount Torrington died. His son George succeeded 4th Viscount Torrington. Lucy Boyle Viscountess Torrington by marriage Viscountess Torrington. On 20th July 1765 George Byng 4th Viscount Torrington and Lucy Boyle Viscountess Torrington were married. She the daughter of John Boyle 5th Earl Cork. On 14th December 1812 George Byng 4th Viscount Torrington died. His brother John succeeded 5th Viscount Torrington. He enjoyed the Viscountcy for only twenty-four days dying on 08 Jan 1813. Further, the seat of the Viscountcy Southill Park, Bedfordshire had been sold to pay off debts. Bridget Forrest Viscountess Byng by marriage Viscountess Torrington.
On 14th November 1787 John Astley [aged 63] died at Dukinfield Lodge, Cheshire [Map]. He was buried at Dukinfield Old Chapel, Cheshire [Map].
On 18th February 1832 [his former wife] Mary Wagstaffe [aged 71] died.