English Politics In The Thirteenth Century (british History In Perspective)

This book is an analytical study of English politics in the crucial period from John's reign to the Ordinance of 1311. It examines contemporary ideas about the nature of royal authority, and the attempts made to set limits on the crown. The nobility, is examined, as is the role of the church. The position of the gentry and the county community is assessed. Three specific issues are investigated, those of the position of foreigners at the court, military service, and taxation. The study concludes by examining of the concept of the community of the realm, and its relationship to parliament. This book examines the nature of politics in England from Magna Carta to the Ordinances of 1311 in the light of recent research. Rather than provide a narrative account of events, the various elements that were influential in politics are examined. Not only was it exceptionally rich in terms of the solutions put forward to resolve political problems, but it was also an age remarkable for domestic peace. Front Matter....Pages i-vi Introduction....Pages 1-10 Kingship....Pages 11-28 The Aristocracy....Pages 29-46 The County Community....Pages 47-63 The Church....Pages 64-78 Englishmen and Foreigners....Pages 79-94 Military Service....Pages 95-108 Taxation....Pages 109-128 Parliament and Community....Pages 129-145 Conclusion....Pages 146-149 Back Matter....Pages 150-177 Kingship -- The Aristocracy -- The County Community -- The Church -- Englishmen And Foreigners -- Military Service -- Taxation -- Parliament And Community -- Conclusion. Michael Prestwich. Includes Bibliographical References (p. 164-166) And Index. Intended to bring together recent ideas about the 13th century, this book discusses kingship, the aristocracy, the county community, the Church, Englishmen and foreigners, military service, taxation and Parliament and community.