The Plantagenets follows the dynasty that ruled England from Henry II in the twelfth century to the deposition of Richard II. It covers the Angevin empire, Magna Carta, conflict with France, baronial rebellion and the growth of Parliament, alongside rulers such as Richard the Lionheart, John, Edward I and Edward III. The book traces both the dynasty’s remarkable reach and the family rivalries and political crises that eventually fractured Plantagenet power.
The dynasty’s longevity makes institutional change visible across generations. Royal justice, Parliament and taxation develop while kings continue to rely on personal lordship, military reputation and family alliance. The book therefore treats Magna Carta, conquest in Wales, war with France and baronial rebellion as connected problems of how a hereditary monarchy could raise resources without losing political consent.
Saul David
3 books
Adrian Goldsworthy
12 books
Alison Weir
35 books
Peter Ackroyd
1 book