History of William Marshal

William Marshal, the younger son of a nobleman, became regent of England in the minority of Henry III and his biography provides a unique portrait of a twelfth-century knight's life in the early days of tournaments and chivalry.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 259 pages
Publication date: 10 April 2018
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

The remarkable career of William Marshal (1146/7-12), who transitioned from being the penniless, landless younger son of a middle-ranking nobleman to serve as the regent of England during the minority of Henry III, stands as one of the most extraordinary tales of the Middle Ages. Shortly after his passing, a household minstrel completed his biography, and we are fortunate that it has survived to provide a unique glimpse into the life of a twelfth-century knight during the early days of tournaments and chivalry, as well as his remarkable career in warfare and politics.

Born into a noble family, Marshal's early life was marked by poverty and hardship. Despite his circumstances, he displayed a remarkable determination and thirst for knowledge. He studied diligently under various tutors and eventually gained admission to the prestigious University of Oxford.

At Oxford, Marshal excelled in various subjects, including literature, law, and warfare. He developed a deep interest in medieval history and literature, which would later influence his political career.

During his time at Oxford, Marshal also met and married Joan of Kent, a noblewoman with a strong political influence. Joan was a powerful ally for Marshal, and her support helped him secure important positions in the royal court.

After completing his studies at Oxford, Marshal returned to England and began his career in politics. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a trusted advisor to King Henry III. Marshal's military skills and strategic thinking made him an invaluable asset to the king, and he was often called upon to lead the king's armies in battle.

One of Marshal's most notable achievements was his role in the Hundred Years' War, which lasted from 1337 to 1453. During this time, Marshal led the English army to several significant victories, including the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, which is considered one of the most significant battles in English history.

Marshal's political and military skills also earned him the respect of other European rulers, and he was often called upon to mediate disputes and settle conflicts. He played a key role in the peace negotiations that ended the war between England and France in 1453, and he was also instrumental in the establishment of the Magna Carta, which established the rights of the English people and limited the power of the king.

In addition to his military and political achievements, Marshal was also a skilled diplomat and a patron of the arts. He supported various artists and writers, and his court was known for its cultural and intellectual life.

Marshal's career came to an end in 1219 when he died at the age of 72. However, his legacy lives on, and he is remembered as one of the greatest knights and politicians of the Middle Ages. His biography provides a valuable insight into the life of a twelfth-century knight and his contributions to medieval society.

In conclusion, the career of William Marshal is a testament to the power of determination, skill, and perseverance. From a penniless nobleman to the regent of England, Marshal's journey is a remarkable story that showcases the heights that one can reach with hard work and dedication. His legacy continues to inspire generations of people, and his contributions to medieval society will be remembered for centuries to come.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 233 x 156 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783273034