Nobility and Kingship in Medieval England

Abstract

Nobility and Kingship in Medieval England is a major new account of the relationship between Edward I and his earls, and of the role of the English nobility in thirteenth-century governance. Re-evaluating crown-noble relations of the period, Spencer challenges traditional interpretations of Edward's reign, showing that his reputed masterfulness has been overplayed and that his kingship was far subtler, and therefore more effective, than this stereotype would suggest. Drawing from key earldoms such as Lincoln, Lancaster, Cornwall and Warenne, the book reveals how nobles created local followings and exercised power at a local level as well as surveying the political, governmental, social and military lives of the earls, prompting us to rethink our perception of their position in thirteenth-century politics. Adopting a powerful revisionist perspective, Spencer presents a major new statement about thirteenth-century England; one which will transform our understanding of politics and kingship in the period.

Accounts and Accountability in Late Medieval Europe: Records, Procedures, and Socio-Political Impact

“…The following lines give more details about the event. A note was entered ("et est sciendum quod…") to the effect that the fine of 60 sous to which Boschacius was sentenced for striking Johannet Bailliet atrociter with a bar (esparra), 94 as well as the 40-sous fine to be paid by the person who provided him with his weapon, were not accounted for because the case was pending in the court of appeals. The castellan is enjoined to recover these amounts once the appeal is decided, as best he can, and answer for these amounts in the next account ("tum injunctum est castellano quod finito termino appellationis recuperet condempnationes ut melius poterit et de ipsis computet in suo primo computo").…”

“…93 Both Walter of Heylun and Bartholomew of Suthleye were royal justices, while Hugh of Stapleford was the sheriff of Buckingham. 94 There was even a representative of the main Exchequer -Roger of Northwood -who was assigned the task of scrutinising the Canterbury archa. 95 Nor was it just secular officers who were named.…”

“…"De IIII libris XIII solidis IX denariis Viennensium receptis a Perrone de Molendino de Chavenes quia sustraxerat Bertino quamdam nansam et fuit condemptus in centum solidis Viennensium sed non potuerunt plus recuperari nisi dicte quatuor libre tresdecim solidos et novem denarios"; ADCO, Dijon, B 9161, 1317-8, m. 49. 93 ADCO, Dijon, B 9162, m. 4 94. The fact that it was his brother Bertrand who paid the fine was probably due to the seriousness of Johannet's injuries.…”