Endorsements

Characterised by war and rebellion, show trials, scandalous royalty, horrible murders, attempts to solve the Irish question, and the making of England's oldest alliance, the political history of the first twenty years (1377-97) of Richard II's reign forms an ideal subject for student study. This accessible collection of translated documents makes available for the first time a wealth of sources covering this dramatic and important period, carefully chosen and arranged to form a coherent narrative. It combines key passages from well-known English chronicles with lesser-known sources, including foreign chronicles, and fascinating administrative documents including letters, and legal and financial records. The material is arranged chronologically, with helpful commentary and notes which enable readers to make the fullest use of each document. The introduction provides essential background information and explains the strengths and weaknesses of the leading chronicles. Students of the politics of late medieval England, whether undergraduate or postgraduate, will find this an invaluable guide which enables them to form their own judgments on this fascinating reign and the enigmatic king at its centre