History of the English People, Volume II: The Charter, 1216-1307; the Parliament, 1307-1400
1879
History of the English People, Volume II: The Charter, 1216-1307; the Parliament, 1307-1400
1879
History - British, History - Medieval/Middle Ages
History of the English People, Volume II, written by John Richard Green and first published in 1879, examines significant events in England from 1216 to 1307. This volume covers the reigns of monarchs such as Henry III and Edward I, detailing pivotal occurrences like the Barons' War and the establishment of Parliament. It highlights the political dynamics and societal changes that shaped English governance, emphasizing the importance of the Charter in the struggle for liberty and the evolution of national consciousness during this period.
About History of the English People, Volume II: The Charter, 1216-1307; the Parliament, 1307-1400
Chapter Summaries
- II
- Covers Henry's minority under William Marshal and Hubert de Burgh, the reissue of the Charter, and the restoration of order after John's death. Describes the rise of the Friars and intellectual developments including Roger Bacon.
- III
- Chronicles Henry's personal rule, the rise of foreign favorites, Simon de Montfort's leadership of baronial opposition, the Provisions of Oxford, and the civil war ending at Evesham.
- IV
- Describes Edward's character and achievements as lawgiver, his conquest of Wales, legal and parliamentary reforms, financial innovations, and the beginning of the Scottish wars.
Key Themes
- Constitutional Development
- The gradual evolution from feudal monarchy to constitutional government, marked by the Charter's enforcement and the development of Parliament with representation of commons.
- National Identity
- The emergence of English national consciousness, particularly under Edward I, as foreign influences wane and English customs and law take precedence.
- Church and State Relations
- The complex relationship between papal authority, royal power, and English independence, including conflicts over taxation and ecclesiastical appointments.
Characters
- Henry III(protagonist)
- King of England from 1216-1272, son of John. Weak, changeable, and profuse ruler who struggled with baronial opposition throughout his reign.
- William Marshal(major)
- Regent and 'governor of King and kingdom' after John's death. Loyal baron who issued the Charter in Henry's name and restored order to the realm.
- Simon de Montfort, Earl of Leicester(protagonist)
- French-born earl who became leader of baronial opposition to Henry III. Called the first Parliament with burgesses in 1265 and died at Evesham.
- Edward I(protagonist)
- Son of Henry III, became king in 1272. Great lawgiver and conqueror of Wales, known for establishing Parliament and legal reforms.
- Hubert de Burgh(major)
- Justiciar under Henry III, defender of English independence against foreign influence. Eventually fell from power due to Henry's suspicions.
- Stephen Langton(major)
- Archbishop of Canterbury, champion of the Charter and English liberties. Worked to maintain constitutional government throughout Henry's minority.
