Siege of Faringdon Castle

1145 CE

Faringdon Castle was built by Robert of Gloucester in 1144 to strengthen Empress Matilda's position in the Thames Valley. Its garrison threatened royal communications between Oxford and western England, making it an immediate target for King Stephen.

Stephen besieged the castle in 1145, and the garrison under Brian de Soulis surrendered after a short resistance. The loss reflected the increasing stalemate of The Anarchy, as local defections and the capture of individual castles mattered more than decisive field battles.

Brother Cadfael's Penance incorporates the fall of Faringdon and the divided loyalties surrounding Philip FitzRobert and Brian de Soulis. The historical episode provides the political starting point for Cadfael's search for his missing son.

Related people for Siege of Faringdon Castle

David I of Scotland1084–1153 Empress Matilda1102–1167 Henry of Blois1096–1171 John Marshal1105–1165 Robert, 1st Earl of Gloucester1090–1147 Robert de Beaumont, 2nd Earl of Leicester1104–1168 Robert Pennantdied 1168 Roger de Clintonc. 11th century–1148 Stephen, King of England1095–1154

Books

1 Best Novel About the Siege of Faringdon Castle (1145)

Brother Cadfael’s Penance

by Ellis Peters

First published 1994 · Chronicles of Brother Cadfael · 4.6(2,945)