Plantagenets

The Plantagenet family held the English throne for 350 years, with French being the mother tongue of the monarchs for 300 years. The book explores military victories, political changes, and the impact of the Black Death on England, and is illustrated with over 200 photographs, maps, and artworks.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 14 August 2018
Publisher: Amber Books Ltd

For nearly three and a half centuries, the Plantagenet dynasty held the English throne, surpassing all other dynasties in the country's history. Despite its French origins, French remained the language of the English monarchs for a remarkable 300 years. However, it was only in the final decades of the family's reign that English began to replace French as the preferred language for official correspondence.

Despite their prolonged reign, the Plantagenets faced numerous challenges and upheavals. Kings were deposed, ransomed, imprisoned, and even plotted against by their own sons and wives. The dynasty's fortunes were not without their share of military triumphs and defeats, as they engaged in conflicts across Europe, on crusades, and in the British Isles.

The book "The Plantagenets" offers a comprehensive account of the dynasty's history, spanning from the coronation of Henry, Count of Anjou, in 1145 to the downfall of Yorkist Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485. It delves into not only the military achievements and struggles of the Plantagenets but also explores the broader societal changes that occurred during this time. The authority of Parliament grew, laws were reformed, and the power dynamics between the royal family and the Roman Catholic Church underwent significant transformations. The Black Death had a profound impact on England, leading to social and economic upheaval. Additionally, universities were established, and magnificent cathedrals were built, showcasing the architectural and cultural achievements of the period.

Written by a renowned historian, "The Plantagenets" is meticulously researched and extensively illustrated with over 200 color and black-and-white photographs, maps, and artworks. The book provides a captivating narrative that has captured the popular imagination for centuries. It offers a detailed and insightful perspective on a dynasty that played a pivotal role in English history and continues to fascinate scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 888g
Dimension: 252 x 193 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782746492