Dr Helen Carr explores the extraordinary and chaotic reign of Edward II, a king with a reputation as a disastrous ruler. But how much of that is true?
Edward's accession as king of England in 1307 led almost immediately to conflict as he favoured close friends, and maybe lovers, like Piers Gaveston. Helen investigates the bond between Edward and Piers, their connection was incredibly close, possibly sexual. Edward’s giving of titles, attention and money to Gaveston alienated many of his traditional supporters amongst the nobility.
Helen also explores Edward's sometimes successful, sometimes deadly, marriage in 1308 to the 12-year-old Isabella of France and the birth of the future Edward III. She also looks at Edward's infamous death - how did the salacious tales of murder by red hot poker come about?
Helen Carr's latest book "Sceptred Isle: A New History of the Fourteenth Century" is out now.
If you're interested in finding out more about the places featured in the film, follow the links below:
Gloucester Cathedral: https://gloucestercathedral.org.uk/
Great St Barts: https://www.greatstbarts.com/
The National Archives: https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/
Kenilworth Castle: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/kenilworth-castle/
Berkeley Castle: https://www.berkeley-castle.com/
Up Next in People Who Made History
-
Russia: The Rise of Stalin
He dominated the 20th century like no other, his shadow still hanging over the continent 70 years after his death.
But how did a choir boy from provincial Georgia rise to become the most powerful man in Russia? And what was his role in shaping the revolution that swept aside the Romanov's and b...
-
Death in the Parsonage: The Brontës
The Brontë family created some of the world's most passionate and enduring novels, yet their lives were shadowed by tragedy.
Dr Maddy Pelling and Dr Anthony Delaney challenge the romantic myths surrounding the family, tracing the harsh reality of their lives in 19th-century Haworth—a crowded Yor...
-
Pinches of Salt and Gold: Uncovering ...
Documentary telling the story of Mansa Musa, the famous 14th century ruler of Mali, renowned for his great wealth. Featuring Professor Amira Bennison, Boubacar Diallo, Hadrien Collet, Mauro Nobili and Madina Thiam.
14 Comments