History of the English People, Volume III: The Parliament, 1399-1461; the Monarchy 1461-1540
History of the English People, Volume III: The Parliament, 1399-1461; the Monarchy 1461-1540
History - British, History - Early Modern (c. 1450-1750), History - Medieval/Middle Ages
History of the English People, Volume III, written by John Richard Green in the late 19th century, covers significant events in English history from 1399 to 1540. This volume focuses on the political landscape, including the rise of the House of Lancaster, the Wars of the Roses, and the reigns of key monarchs. It details the deposition of King Richard II, the establishment of Lancaster rule, and the ensuing political conflicts, providing an in-depth exploration of governance and social dynamics during this transformative period in England.
About History of the English People, Volume III: The Parliament, 1399-1461; the Monarchy 1461-1540
Chapter Summaries
- V
- Chronicles Henry IV's usurpation of Richard II's throne and establishment of Lancastrian rule through parliamentary approval. Covers the Welsh revolt under Owen Glyndwr, Percy rebellions, and the gradual consolidation of power despite constant challenges to legitimacy.
- VI
- Details the minority of Henry VI, loss of French territories, and outbreak of civil war between Lancaster and York. Culminates in the victory of Edward IV at Towton and establishment of Yorkist rule after decades of weak Lancastrian government.
Key Themes
- Parliamentary vs. Royal Authority
- The tension between emerging parliamentary power and traditional royal prerogative defines much of the period. Henry IV's dependence on Parliament for legitimacy established precedents that later kings struggled against, while the weakness of Henry VI allowed Parliament to assert greater control over government.
- Legitimacy and Usurpation
- Questions of rightful rule permeate the narrative, from Henry IV's deposition of Richard II to York's eventual challenge to Lancastrian rule. The competing claims based on parliamentary approval versus hereditary right create ongoing instability and justify rebellion.
- Religious Reform and Persecution
- The Lollard movement represents early religious reform challenging established church authority. The brutal persecution under the Statute of Heresy demonstrates how religious dissent becomes intertwined with political rebellion and social change.
Characters
- Henry IV (Henry of Lancaster)(protagonist)
- First Lancastrian king who deposed Richard II in 1399. Established parliamentary monarchy but struggled with revolts, Welsh uprising, and French hostilities throughout his reign.
- Henry V(protagonist)
- Warrior king who conquered much of France and won the Battle of Agincourt. Transformed from rebellious prince to great military leader and died at height of power.
- Henry VI(major)
- Weak, mentally unstable king who inherited throne as infant. His incapacity led to civil war and eventual loss of crown to House of York.
- Richard of York(major)
- Duke with strong claim to throne through Mortimer line. Initially loyal servant but eventually challenged Henry VI's right to rule, leading to Wars of the Roses.
- Owen Glyndwr(major)
- Welsh prince who led major revolt against Henry IV. Descendant of native Welsh royalty who nearly achieved Welsh independence through sustained guerrilla warfare.
- Henry Percy (Hotspur)(major)
- Brave warrior from powerful northern family who initially supported Henry IV but later rebelled. Killed at Battle of Shrewsbury fighting against the king he helped enthrone.
