Usurpers, A New Look at Medieval Kings

During the Middle Ages, several kings in England were called usurpers due to their deposing of the reigning kings and seizing power for themselves. This book examines the lives of these six kings, the circumstances that brought them to power, and whether they deserved the title of usurper. It also includes stories of fascinating people from medieval Europe, such as Empress Matilda, Eleanor of Aquitaine, Richard II, Henry VI, Margaret of Anjou, Richard of York, and Edward IV.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2021
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

In the Middle Ages, England faced a series of usurpers who disrupted the British monarchy and ultimately altered the course of European history. These usurpers deposed England's reigning kings and seized power for themselves, causing significant upheaval and transformation. Some of the most notorious usurper kings from medieval England include William the Conqueror, Stephen of Blois, Henry Bolingbroke, Edward IV, Richard III, and Henry Tudor.

The question of whether these kings truly deserved the title of usurper or were unfairly vilified by royal propaganda and biased chroniclers remains a subject of debate. In this book, we delve into the lives of these six medieval kings, exploring the circumstances that led them to power and examining their legacies.

Through our examination, we will hear captivating stories of individuals from medieval Europe, including Empress Matilda, the woman who nearly succeeded in becoming the first ruling Queen of England; Eleanor of Aquitaine, the queen of both France and England who played a pivotal role in the Wars of the Roses; Richard II, whose cruel and vengeful reign led to his downfall; Henry VI, Margaret of Anjou, Richard of York, and Edward IV, who engaged in a fierce struggle for power during the Wars of the Roses; Richard III, known for his monstrous reputation as a child-killer; and Henry VII, who rose from relative obscurity to establish the most famous royal family in history, the Tudors.

By examining the lives and reigns of these six medieval kings, we hope to shed light on the complex and fascinating period of European history and provide a deeper understanding of the individuals who shaped it.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 165 x 240 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526779502