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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Around 1664. Henri Gascar [aged 29]. Portrait of Diana Grey Countess Elgin and Ailesbury [aged 34].
In 1670 Henri Gascar [aged 35]. Portrait of Louise Kéroualle 1st Duchess Portsmouth [aged 20].
Around 1672 Henri Gascar [aged 37]. Portrait of King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 38].
In 1673 Henri Gascar [aged 38]. Portrait of Louise Kéroualle 1st Duchess Portsmouth [aged 23].
Around 1674 Henri Gascar [aged 39] came to England, probably at the request of Louise Kéroualle 1st Duchess Portsmouth [aged 24], mistress of Charles II King Scotland.
In 1686 Henri Gascar [aged 51]. Portrait of Anne Fitzgerald.
Anne Fitzgerald: she was born to Wentworth Fitzgerald 17th Earl of Kildare and Elizabeth Holles Countess Kildare. Before 3rd February 1718 Francis Robartes and she were married. She the daughter of Wentworth Fitzgerald 17th Earl of Kildare and Elizabeth Holles Countess Kildare. He the son of John Robartes 1st Earl Radnor and Letitia Isabella Smythe Countess Radnor. They were fourth cousin twice removed.
1686. Henri Gascar [aged 51]. Portrait of Sophia Dorothea of Celle [aged 19].
Before 1st January 1701 Henri Gascar [aged 66]. Portrait of Louise Kéroualle 1st Duchess Portsmouth [aged 51].
Before 1st January 1701 Henri Gascar [aged 66]. Portrait of Louise Kéroualle 1st Duchess Portsmouth [aged 51].
Before 1st January 1701 Henri Gascar [aged 66]. Portrait of Diana Grey Countess Elgin.
Before 1st January 1701 Henri Gascar [aged 66]. Portrait of Barbara Villiers 1st Duchess of Cleveland [aged 60].
Before 1st January 1701 Henri Gascar [aged 66]. Portrait of Robert Bruce 2nd Earl Elgin 1st Earl Ailesbury.
On 1st January 1701 Henri Gascar [aged 66] died.