AS History₇₀₄₁

This option provides for the study in depth of a period of turbulence in British history, during which the authority of the monarch was questioned and the relationship between Church, State and the baronage was readjusted. It develops concepts such as authority, dynastic ambition and rebellion and encourages students to reflect on issues such as territorial integrity and what makes a ‘state’.

The Reign of Henry II, 1154–1189

The Restoration of Royal Authority, 1154–1166

• The political, economic and social condition of England in 1154; the character and aims of Henry II; the strengths and weaknesses of Henry II’s position at his accession
• The restoration of royal authority under Henry II: the barons; royal finance; justice and the law
• The place of religion in society: the political role of the Church; ecclesiastical courts; the importance of the Church in finance and the economy
• Henry II and England’s overseas territories; the lordship of Ireland; Normandy, Gascony and Aquitaine; relations with France

The crisis of Royal Authority, 1166–1174

• The conflict between Church and State: Thomas Becket and the crisis of 1170; the clash between Henry II and the Papacy
• Henry II and Ireland: the invasions of 1169 and 1171; relations with the Irish nobility
• The origins of the Great Rebellion: dynastic instability and Henry II’s relations with the three rebellious sons, Eleanor of Aquitaine and their supporters; the role of Louis VII of France
• The course of the Great Rebellion: political instability; the barons; William I of Scotland; the re-establishment of Henry II’s rule

The struggle for Royal Authority, 1174–1189

• Attempts to consolidate royal authority after the Great Rebellion: court and family tensions; the barons; the royal finances; justice and the law
• Relations between Church and State: Henry II and his bishops; reconciliation with the Papacy
• Social and economic developments: towns and trade, the social condition of England by 1189
• England’s overseas territories: developments in Ireland after the 1175 Treaty of Windsor; the dynastic ambitions of Henry’s sons; relations with Philip II of France; Henry’s final military campaign; the death of the King