England Under the Angevin Kings, Volume I
1887
History - British, History - Medieval/Middle Ages
England Under the Angevin Kings, Volume I, written by Kate Norgate and first published in 1887, provides a historical account of England during the reign of the Angevin Kings, particularly focusing on Henry I's rule from 1100 to 1135. Norgate examines the political, social, and ecclesiastical transformations of the period, highlighting the complexities of governance and the dynamics within English society. The book includes maps and plans to enhance understanding, and it sets the stage for a narrative on the revival of the English monarchy after the Norman period, detailing the challenges faced by Henry I in restoring order amidst division and foreign rule.
About England Under the Angevin Kings, Volume I
Chapter Summaries
- 1
- This opening chapter establishes the context for understanding Henry I's reign and its significance in English history. It describes how Henry, the youngest son of William the Conqueror, seized the throne in 1100 and transformed England through administrative reforms, the defeat of his brother Robert at Tinchebray, and the establishment of peace and order.
Key Themes
- National Revival and Identity
- The book explores how England experienced a cultural and political renaissance under Henry I, with the gradual fusion of Norman and English peoples creating a new national identity. This revival occurred despite foreign rule and laid the groundwork for future English greatness.
- Administrative Revolution
- Henry I's reign marked the creation of modern governmental institutions, particularly the Exchequer system developed by Roger of Salisbury. This administrative transformation established the foundation for centralized royal authority and efficient governance.
- Religious Renewal
- The period witnessed a spiritual awakening through new monastic orders like the Augustinians and Cistercians, alongside the revival of English saints' cults. This religious renaissance paralleled and supported the broader national revival.
Characters
- Henry I of England(protagonist)
- The youngest son of William the Conqueror, Henry I ruled England from 1100-1135. A calculating, pragmatic ruler who brought peace and order to England through administrative reforms and the establishment of the Exchequer system.
- William the Conqueror(major)
- The Norman duke who conquered England in 1066. Father of Henry I, he established Norman rule and began the transformation of English society and government.
- William Rufus (William II)(major)
- The Red King, second son of William the Conqueror who ruled England from 1087-1100. Known for his tyrannical rule and conflicts with the Church before his mysterious death in the New Forest.
- Robert Curthose(major)
- Duke of Normandy and eldest son of William the Conqueror. A weak ruler who lost Normandy to Henry I at the Battle of Tinchebray in 1106.
- Roger of Salisbury(major)
- Henry I's chief minister and justiciar, originally a poor priest who became the architect of England's administrative system. He organized the Exchequer and transformed royal government.
- Matilda of Scotland (Edith)(major)
- Queen of England and wife of Henry I, descended from the old English royal line through Edmund Ironside. Her marriage symbolized the union of Norman and English bloodlines.
