Henry VI, Margaret of Anjou and the Wars of the Roses: A Source Book

by Keith Dockray

This fascinating source book brings the later part of the 15th centuryto life. The Wars of the Roses produced large amounts of political, propaganda, literary and personal documents, all with their own view of Henry, his queen and the Lancastrian cause. The king's lack of understanding and mental collapses were interpreted by some as spiritual rapture while Margaret's determination to protect her son, born in the same year as Henry's breakdown, was seen as unsuitable female behaviour. Letters from the war's participants, including Richard of York and the Pastons, and from ordinary people caught up in the conflict are translated into modern English, along with parliamentary rolls, ballads and contemporary descriptions of landmark battles and events.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

146 pages, Paperback

First published March 23, 2000

Reviews

[Paul Watts · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is, as it says, a source book. That means it helps to be familiar with the primary events of the war of the roses before you read it. However, if you have some familiarity with the period this is a great book. It provides a concise overview of the key events in the lives of Henry and Margaret and an overview of the war. As it focuses on these two people, it has less detail on those aspects of the war that did not directly concern them. That means you won't find much detail on events such as the disputes between Edward IV and people like Warwick and Edward's brother George etc. Also, it does not go into great detail with reference to events that occur after Henry VI's death and Margaret's final defeat (as this is largely beyond the scope of the book).

It does provide a selection of quotes from primary sources - chronicler accounts, letters etc. So can see for yourself a fair selection of some of the original accounts and sources on which later historians have based their opinions. It is also fairly up to date in some of its analysis compared to a lot that is out there & in particular includes an overview of some of the more recent work that has been done in relation to Margaret of Anjou (alas now long overdue a modern / up-to-date biography).

[Michael & Christine Perry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent Read

I liked the information gathered from a variety of sources. It was an interesting concept and easy to follow. It was an enjoyable read.

[Dan Moorhouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

A go to book on the period. Very well selected series of sources with clear explanation and interpretation.