The Anarchy: The War of Dynastic Succession in 12th Century England and Normandy

In the tumultuous period of the 12th century, England and Normandy were embroiled in a fierce war of dynastic succession known as the Anarchy. Barons and nobles of all ranks were caught up in the family feud over who would succeed Henry I to the throne. The main contenders were Matilda, Henry’s only surviving legitimate child and widow of Holy Roman Emperor Henry V, and her cousin Stephen of Blois.

The conflict played out like a game of chess or chequers, with castles and fortified towns being the key pieces in the power struggle. Matilda, known for her astute political maneuvering, initially struggled to claim the crown for herself against Stephen. However, she eventually shifted her focus to demanding the throne for her son, Henry II. This strategic move ultimately led to her victory, with Matilda becoming the power behind Henry II’s throne in Normandy.

To delve deeper into the fascinating story of Empress Matilda and the Anarchy, Dr. Catherine Hanley, a renowned historian with a PhD in Medieval Studies from the University of Sheffield, has recently published a scholarly biography titled “Matilda: Empress, Queen, Warrior” (Yale University Press, 2019). Her expertise in medieval history sheds light on this turbulent period of English and Norman history.

For those interested in further exploring this captivating era, Dr. Hanley recommends a selection of recommended reading, including works by Marjorie Chibnall, Keith Stringer, Paul Dalton, Graeme White, Jim Bradbury, and Helen Castor. These books provide valuable insights into the reign of Stephen, the civil war of 1139-53, and the powerful women who shaped England’s history.

Additionally, Dr. Hanley’s own publications, such as “War and Combat 1150-1217: the Evidence from Old French Literature” and “Two Houses, Two Kingdoms: A History of France and England, 1100-1300,” offer further exploration of the political and military dynamics of this tumultuous period.

Overall, the Anarchy of the 12th century stands as a testament to the complex interplay of power, ambition, and strategy in medieval England and Normandy. Through the lens of Empress Matilda’s story, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs of this turbulent time in history.