Henry II (Penguin Monarchs): A Prince Among Princes

The Penguin Monarchs series provides short, fresh, expert accounts of England's rulers, from Henry II to Richard III. Henry II, known for his dynamic, restless, and clever rule, built an enormous European empire but was ultimately brought down by his relationship with Thomas Becket and arguments with his sons. Richard Barber's book explores why Henry II left such a compelling impression on his contemporaries. Barber is a renowned medieval studies figure and has written several other books on the subject.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2018
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The acclaimed Penguin Monarchs series presents concise and insightful accounts of the rulers of England throughout history, now available in paperback format. Henry II, who ruled from 1154 to 1189, embarked on a remarkable journey that saw him ascend to the throne through a series of astonishing dynastic coups. He emerged as one of the most dynamic, restless, and clever leaders in the history of England, renowned for his ability to navigate complex political landscapes and forge powerful alliances. However, his reign was marked by a tumultuous relationship with his archbishop, Thomas Becket, and a series of conflicts with his sons, particularly the future Richard I and King John. Despite facing numerous challenges, Henry II's empire endured for several centuries until it eventually collapsed. In Richard Barber's vivid and sympathetic account, readers gain a deeper understanding of why Henry II left such a lasting impression on his contemporaries. Barber is a renowned author and scholar in medieval studies, having written extensively on various subjects related to the Middle Ages. His works include The Penguin Guide to Medieval Europe, The Holy Grail, and Edward III and the Triumph of England. Barber's expertise and dedication to historical research have earned him a prominent position in the field, and his books have been widely acclaimed for their accessibility and depth of knowledge. Through his writing, Barber brings the past to life, providing readers with a fresh and engaging perspective on the rulers of England and their contributions to the world's history.

Weight: 90g
Dimension: 174 x 104 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141988658