Life
Gilbert was son of Geoffrey, Count of Eu (b. 962) who was an illegitimate child of Richard the Fearless. He inherited Brionne, becoming one of the most powerful landowners in Normandy. He married Gunnora d'Aunou in 1012. He had children by his wife and a mistress. Gilbert was a generous benefactor to Bec Abbey founded by his former knight Herluin in 1031.
When Robert II, Duke of Normandy died in 1035 his illegitimate son William inherited his father's title. Several leading Normans, including Gilbert of Brionne, Osbern the Seneschal and Alan of Brittany, became William's guardians.
Read more about this topic: Gilbert, Count Of Brionne
Famous quotes containing the word life:
“Saving one human life is better than building a seven story pagoda to the Buddha.”
—Chinese proverb.