The date is July 1100. William has alienated himself from the Church but his younger brother Henry feels that he should go to a priest. He should confess his sins 'in case something happens to him' otherwise he'll die and go to hell.

William had a bad reputation. It was said that he swore, was addicted to sex and adultery, wore his hair long (shock!), wore tight fitting tunics, dressed in expensive clothing, and enjoyed feasting, drinking, gambling and sleeping all day. Hence why the church disliked him. It's true that he said 'Who can carry out all he promises'?

He did encourage Jewish people to debate with Christian bishops and said he would convert if they won! It's also true that he tried to convert someone back to Judaism after being paid to. But he did in fact say that people should decide for themselves what religion they adopted. He is also known to have said the line about God not knowing men's actions.

He couldn't read or write and he was a notorious joker. He really did pee on his brother from a balcony.

He did endow the priory of St Savours in Bermondsey which is the first picture below. He really didn't get on with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Anselm, who did leave the country in protest. He did try and get tax from the monks and also fined people instead of putting them through a trial or punishment.

There's no evidence he was gay, just because he didn't get married. He also very nearly did marry Edith. It's true that the Duke of Anjou created the shoes with long, pointed toes and the Giffard story. He certainly did have a better reputation in Normandy than in England. He also really did say 'Stop that you fool, I'm the King of England' to stop someone killing him.

If you want to find out more about William, check out the sources and places below:

King Rufus: The Life and Murder of William II of England - Emma Mason

Penguin Monarchs Series: William II - John Gillingham

The English Monarchs Series: William Rufus - Frank Barlow

List of places to visit associated with William