C. Warren Hollister presents Henry I as an exceptionally capable ruler who reunited England and Normandy and strengthened the administrative foundations of Anglo-Norman monarchy. Completed after Hollister’s death, the biography follows Henry’s seizure of the throne, victory over his brother Robert and careful management of barons, churchmen and royal officials.
The book explores justice, finance, itinerant government and the growth of institutions later associated with the medieval English state. It also gives close attention to Henry’s family, the White Ship disaster and his attempt to secure the succession for Empress Matilda, a decision that shaped the civil war after his death.
Marc Morris
Tracy Borman
4 books