Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (08 of 12)henrie the Third, the Eldest Sonne of King Iohn
1577
Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (08 of 12)henrie the Third, the Eldest Sonne of King Iohn
1577
History - British, History - Medieval/Middle Ages, History - Royalty
''Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (08 of 12)'' is a historical account by Raphael Holinshed, first published in 1577. This volume focuses on the reign of King Henry III, who ascended to the throne at the age of nine after the death of King John. It details the political turmoil of early medieval England, including the conflict with Prince Louis of France and the power struggles among the nobility. Holinshed's work is notable for its influence on later writers, including Shakespeare, and serves as a significant source for understanding the history of Great Britain during the Tudor period and beyond.
About Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (08 of 12)henrie the Third, the Eldest Sonne of King Iohn
Chapter Summaries
- 1
- Nine-year-old Henry becomes king after John's death. William Marshall becomes regent and protector, gathering loyal barons to support the young king against French invasion led by Louis.
- 2
- Louis of France continues his invasion with baronial support, but English resistance grows as foreign arrogance alienates potential allies. Key castles like Dover hold out against siege.
- 3
- English forces under William Marshall decisively defeat the French at Lincoln, capturing many nobles and turning the tide of the war. This victory is mockingly called 'Louis's Fair.'
Key Themes
- Royal Authority vs. Baronial Power
- The central tension between monarchical prerogative and noble rights, manifested in disputes over taxation, appointments, and adherence to Magna Carta. The barons consistently demanded limitations on royal power.
- Foreign Influence and Xenophobia
- Resentment against foreign advisors and relatives, particularly the Poitevins and Savoyards, who were seen as corrupting English governance and draining the realm's resources for their own benefit.
- Financial Crisis and Governance
- Chronic shortage of royal funds leading to constant demands for taxation, which created friction with subjects and limited the king's ability to govern effectively or pursue foreign ambitions.
Characters
- Henry III(protagonist)
- King of England from age 9, eldest son of King John. A well-meaning but often ineffective ruler who struggled with baronial opposition and financial difficulties throughout his reign.
- William Marshall Earl of Pembroke(major)
- Regent and protector of young Henry III after King John's death. A noble and skilled warrior who defended England against French invasion and guided the kingdom through its early troubles.
- Simon de Montfort Earl of Leicester(major)
- French nobleman who married Henry's sister Eleanor. Initially a loyal supporter who became the king's greatest opponent, leading baronial opposition and eventually rebelling against royal authority.
- Richard Earl of Cornwall(major)
- Henry's brother, later elected King of Germany. A wealthy and influential nobleman who often supported the king but sometimes opposed his policies, particularly regarding financial matters.
- Louis of France(antagonist)
- French prince who invaded England during Henry's minority, claiming the throne. Eventually defeated and forced to abandon his claim through military action and diplomatic settlement.
- Hubert de Burgh(major)
- Justiciar of England and defender of Dover Castle. A capable administrator who served as chief minister but eventually fell from favor due to baronial opposition.
