Matilda’s Second Son Born in Rouen
In the spring Matilda joined her father at Rouen, and shortly before Whitsuntide her second son was born there.…
Geoffrey’s Claim to Norman Castles
Henry’s departure was eventually prompted by tidings of disturbance on the Welsh border, but his daughter Matilda set herself against his return.…
Conflict Between Geoffrey and Henry
Henry denied the claim and the Angevin temper flared up at once. Geoffrey attacked and burned the castle of Beaumont, whose lord was like himself a son-in-law of Henry, and behave…
Treason in Normandy
Henry found himself unable to leave Normandy because the land was full of treason. Many barons who had disguised their real feelings from awe of the stern old king had been gained…
Flight of William Talvas to Anjou
Roger’s castle of Conches was garrisoned by the king, and William Talvas was summoned to Rouen more than once but dared not appear.…
Matilda Parts from Her Father in Anger
The countess pleaded warmly with her father for the traitor’s pardon, but in vain. When she found him inexorable, she suddenly threw off the mask and revealed her true sympathies…
Henry’s Final Illness and Death
In the last week of November Henry fell sick while hunting in the Forest of Lions. Feeling his end near, he sent for his old friend Archbishop Hugh of Rouen to receive his confess…
End of the Conqueror’s Direct Male Line
With Henry died the direct male line of the Conqueror, for Duke Robert’s long captivity had ended a year before.…
Revival of the House of Blois
Suddenly an unexpected competitor sprang forth. A rivalry which had seemed dead for nearly a hundred years revived in a new form, and the house of Anjou, on the very eve of its tr…
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