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/
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