Bishop Odo of Bayeux was another of the powerful and influential men of the Norman Conquest. As the half-brother of William the Conqueror, he played a key role in the invasion of England in 1066 and became one of the wealthiest men in the kingdom after William’s victory.
Born around 1035, Odo was a half-brother to William the Conqueror. He accompanied William during the Norman invasion of England and appears prominently in the Bayeux Tapestry.
One famous scene shows him rallying Norman troops during the Battle of Hastings. Rather than carrying a sword, he is depicted wielding a club, likely because church law discouraged clergy shedding blood, even in battle.
Following the conquest, Odo was rewarded with vast estates across England and became Earl of Kent. Recognition for his service to King William.
Despite his power, Odo’s career was marked by controversy. He was accused of abusing his authority and was eventually put in jail by William. After William’s death, Odo supported an unsuccessful rebellion against William’s son, King William II, and was forced into exile. He died in Sicily while on his way to fight in the first crusade.
Many historians believe that Odo may have commissioned the Bayeux Tapestry, which explains why he is featured so prominently throughout its scenes.
Kelly Evans - Author 