Historian A: John Roberts – Military Effectiveness Perspective

"Historian John Roberts argues that the shield wall was the most crucial tactic used by the Normans, providing a strong defensive formation that allowed them to withstand initial attacks. He emphasizes that the shield wall helped maintain order amidst chaos and was vital in the eventual Norman victory. Roberts supports his view by citing battlefield accounts that describe the formation's resilience and importance during the battle."

Historian B: Susan Williams – Social and Cultural Perspective

"Historian Susan Williams contends that the shield wall was less about military tactics and more about the social cohesion among the Anglo-Saxon troops. She suggests it served as a symbol of unity and collective identity, which motivated soldiers to fight fiercely. Williams highlights that the formation's significance lay in its role in fostering morale and community, rather than purely its tactical effectiveness."