Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (04 of 12): Stephan Earle of Bullongne
1577
Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (04 of 12): Stephan Earle of Bullongne
1577
History - British, History - Medieval/Middle Ages, History - Royalty
''Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (04 of 12)'' is a historical account by Raphael Holinshed, first published in 1577. This volume focuses on the reign of King Stephen, detailing the political turmoil and civil strife that arose following his ascension to the throne amid competing claims from Empress Matilda. The narrative explores key events, alliances, and betrayals that defined early 12th-century England, setting the stage for the conflicts that would shape the nation's future. Holinshed's work is notable for its influence on later writers, including William Shakespeare.
About Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (04 of 12): Stephan Earle of Bullongne
Chapter Summaries
- 1135
- Stephen Earl of Boulogne seizes the English throne after Henry I's death, despite having sworn to support Empress Maud. His coronation is marked by ominous signs including a great tempest, and he makes generous promises to win support.
- 1136
- Stephen makes popular reforms including abolishing the Danegelt tax and allowing castle building. David King of Scotland invades England in support of Maud, leading to Stephen's first military campaign and a peace treaty.
- 1137-1138
- Stephen faces multiple rebellions when rumors of his death spread. He campaigns in Normandy against Geoffrey of Anjou, then returns to face renewed Scottish invasions, culminating in the English victory at the Battle of the Standard.
Key Themes
- Legitimacy and Succession
- The central question of rightful inheritance drives the entire narrative, exploring how oaths, bloodlines, and political necessity determine royal succession. The conflict between Stephen's usurpation and Maud's legitimate claim reflects medieval concerns about divine right and lawful authority.
- The Consequences of Perjury
- The breaking of oaths sworn to Empress Maud haunts the narrative, with repeated references to divine punishment for those who violated their sacred promises. The text presents perjury as a sin that brings inevitable retribution from God.
- Civil War and Its Devastation
- The chronicle vividly depicts the horrors of internal conflict, showing how civil war destroys the social fabric, ruins the economy, and brings suffering to innocent people. The author emphasizes the contrast between the peace of unity and the hell of division.
Characters
- Stephen Earl of Boulogne(protagonist)
- Son of Stephen Earl of Blois and Adela (daughter of William the Conqueror), who claimed the English throne after Henry I's death. A courteous and liberal king who struggled with civil war throughout his reign.
- Empress Maud(antagonist)
- Daughter of Henry I and rightful heir to the English throne, who fought a prolonged civil war against Stephen. Wife of Geoffrey Earl of Anjou and mother of Henry Fitzempresse.
- Robert Earl of Gloucester(major)
- Illegitimate son of Henry I and half-brother to Empress Maud. A key military leader in the civil war who supported Maud's claim to the throne.
- Henry Fitzempresse(major)
- Son of Empress Maud and Geoffrey Earl of Anjou, later Duke of Normandie. Eventually made Stephen's heir and successor through the peace treaty of Winchester.
- David King of Scotland(major)
- King of Scotland who invaded England multiple times in support of his niece Empress Maud's claim. Father of Henry Earl of Huntingdon.
- Henry Bishop of Winchester(major)
- Brother of King Stephen and papal legate, who played a crucial role in Stephen's rise to power and later politics of the realm.
