Captivity of James I of Scotland, 1406–1424

Prince James was sent towards France in 1406 after the death of his elder brother and amid concern for his safety in Scotland. English sailors captured his ship, and he became king shortly afterwards when Robert III died.

James was detained at several English castles and received an extensive education. He accompanied Henry V’s forces in France and observed English government while Robert Stewart, Duke of Albany, and later Murdoch Stewart exercised authority in Scotland.

A King Ensnared uses these years to trace James’s development from vulnerable prince to adult monarch, including his relationship with Joan Beaufort and the negotiations that finally secured his release.