Battle of Methven, 1306

Robert the Bruce was crowned king in March 1306 after killing John Comyn and openly challenging Edward I. English forces under Aymer de Valence moved against him before his support and military organisation were secure.

Near Methven on 19 June, de Valence launched an attack that scattered Bruce’s army and captured several of his followers. The king escaped, but the defeat began months of flight and concealment before he could resume the campaign in 1307.

Noble Traitor presents the battle through Thomas Randolph, whose capture and divided loyalties become the foundation of his later return to Bruce’s service.