Henry’s Early Training and Inherited Strengths
Henry’s Early Training and Inherited Strengths Henry’s qualifications for kingship were largely innate rather than learned.…
His Physical Appearance and Stature
His Physical Appearance and Stature Henry had no claim to his father’s epithet of beauty, but he possessed a form that commanded a soldier’s attention.…
His Face, Eyes, and Expression
His Face, Eyes, and Expression Courtiers described Henry’s face as “lion-like” or “a countenance of fire,” full of animation, energy, and vigour—as even his tomb effigy confirms.…
His Plain Dress and the Name ‘Curtmantel’
His Plain Dress and the Name ‘Curtmantel’ Henry inherited as little of Geoffrey’s refinement as of his physical grace.…
Temperance and Lack of Personal Luxury
Temperance and Lack of Personal Luxury In later years Henry was accused of extreme parsimony, and even as a young man he clearly took no pleasure in pomp or luxury.…
Restlessness and Passion for the Chase
Restlessness and Passion for the Chase Henry’s restlessness outdid even that of Fulk Nerra. He was always active, spurning dreams of ease even in sleep.…
Conduct at Church and Religious Duties
Conduct at Church and Religious Duties In church Henry was especially restless. Unmindful of the sacred unction that had made him king, he begrudged time taken from secular affair…
The Trials of His Mobile and Erratic Court
The Trials of His Mobile and Erratic Court Attendance on Henry was no light matter. His clerks compared his court to the infernal regions.…
Contrast with Henry I’s Orderly Court
Contrast with Henry I’s Orderly Court Henry’s bustling, roving court was utterly unlike the orderly, well-disciplined court of the first King Henry.…
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