Roses, Rivalries, and Revolts: Power and People in Fifteenth-Century England

What is the course about?

The political, economic, social and cultural history of fifteenth-century England.

What will we cover?

The fifteenth century begins with ‘regime change’ initiated by the deposition of Richard II by his cousin Henry of Lancaster who becomes Henry IV. The meteoric success of his son, Henry V, in France will bequeath a poisoned chalice to his son, Henry VI, who becomes king at the age of eight months. We discuss how far the political misfortunes of his reign are due to his personal failings. Margaret of Anjou has left a terrible reputation thanks to Shakespeare but one might argue that she was doing no more than any other queen would have done to preserve the throne for her son. Her problem was that she was French and her son short-lived. We also look at the House of York and inevitably we must discuss Richard III. Having explored the political situation in England we then look at the social and cultural history. The Paston Letters provide a unique glimpse into the lives of an East Anglian gentry family. We will also consider the consequences of the Black Death on life between 1400 and 1500.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Explain how Shakespeare has coloured our perception of the period covered by the Wars of the Roses
• Evaluate the reasons for the Wars of the Roses
• Read extracts from the Paston Letters and reflect on what they reveal about everyday life in 15th-century England
• Discuss the nature of fifteenth-century queenship
• Debate on whether or not Richard III murdered his nephews and the question of whether we can ever be objective about his reign.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

An open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.
This module is open to anyone with an interest and enthusiasm for the subject. No formal qualification or previous knowledge of the subject is required. However, a good standard of reading, writing and speaking English is essential.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

PowerPoint will be used to illustrate key points and then we will be reading and discussing contemporary sources (in translation). You will be encouraged to share your thoughts and ideas in a relaxed and friendly environment. Weekly reading outside the class will be encouraged but is not obligatory.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no other expenses other than note-taking materials. We are meeting online and so you are advised to check that your equipment has a built-in microphone and camera.

You are not expected to purchase any reading material. All essential reading will be supplied via Google Classroom for you to download. As for purchasing a book please be careful. The Wars of the Roses is mind-boggling full of individuals and battles which can be overwhelming. Most popular reading is dire. If you wish to purchase a book I would recommend an old favourite – J.R. Lander The Wars of the Roses – which has the advantage of illustrations and is good value (Amazon second-hand is great). If you want a Shakespearian focus, there is Keith Dockray, William Shakespeare: the Wars of the roses and the Historians is good. For a more rounded study of the fifteenth century I like Rosemary Horrox ed. Fifteenth Century Attitudes. The best book for the Pastons is still John Vigar, The Illustrated Paston Letters but I will be giving you some of the letters to read. A course book listing weekly topics and reading will be provided at the beginning of the course.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

This course is part of an English history cycle which will continue in 24/25.