en we can identify not only the type of weapon (crossbow) but the four sided bolts used. Historians are probably right in figuring that the Carmen was composed sometime after the battle, but even the most liberal dating places it no later than 1100, only 34 years after the fact. Added to William of Poitiers account and use of the term balistae it is fairly certain that this piece of information is true. One of the critical incidents in the battle is the death of Harold. The most compelling evidence as to the manner of his death is the Bayeux Tapestry, which shows Harold with an arrow in the eye, or at least in the head. It is not clear as to what type of arrow did this deed. It is known through William of Malmesbury only of Harold 'receiving the fatal arrow from a distance, then yielding to death.' This fatal blow could have been dealt by any of the archers, perhaps a even a crossbowman. As for the Welsh and English, the lack of vocabulary or entries in chronicles about crossbows until well after 1100 is evidence to corroborate the theory that crossbows were not used by the Saxons at Hastings. Even the tapestry, which shows only one English archer, without mail or even a helm, helps to confirm the lack of Saxon archers with any kind of bow. The disdain of the crossbow extended only to its use as a military implement. From the 11th century on the crossbow became a favorite toy of royalty and nobility. Local and regional competitions were held frequently for great honor and even grander prizes. Pageants were held, crossbow societies were formed, and the general public was treated to spectacular productions replete with heraldry, fanfares, and all the trappings of a faire. Ceremonial guards in spectacular uniform accompanied royalty and dignitaries. The nonmilitary crossbow, with its carvings and inlays, provided the visually spectacular show of decorum so necessary in any procession. In the Angevin period, more is known from magistrate te...
