Elia Princess of Starfall’s Reviews > The Perfect King: The Life of Edward III, Father of the English Nation > Status Update

An excellent, well-researched and highly enjoyable biography on one of England's most intriguing kings. Erudite, thoughtful with a lively writing style and a keen adherence to historical accuracy, this is a fantastic introduction to the tumultuous life of Edward III.

Appendices 1-8 In depth and thoughtful explanations on several issues within Edward III's life from the number of present day descendants he has to the enigmatic and controversial debate regarding the supposed murder of his father Edward II.

Ch 17 Edward the Gracious Was Edward III the "Perfect King"? Do his noted military, social and cultural achievements warrant such praise? Was his kingship a success or failure for England and himself?

Ch 16: A Tattered Coat upon a Stick Edward finds himself a mistress; the politically canny and avaricious Alice Perrers. Alice who was either a teenager or in her early twenties when she became involved with the King gave Edward a son John and two daughters Jane and Joan. Alice wielded great influence and authority over Edward and used it perhaps excessively to her advantage.

Ch 15 Outliving Victory Edward enters his inglorious and heartbreaking twilight years. His dearest friends, four of his much loved children and his cherished wife pass away and his triumphant military victories become no more than legendary memories. Edward is a man and King who has outlived his time; the saddest of all fates.

Ch 13: Lawmaker Edward III, in regards to law, followed the example of his grandfather Edward I who was known as the great codifier of English or "the Second Justinian". Edward, through Parliament and especially in the chaotic aftermath of the Great Mortality, passed numerous laws and statures meant to preserve the social and classist status qui.

Ch 11: An Unassailable Enemy The Great Mortality later known as the Black Death sweeps across 14th century Europe wreaking havoc, misery and chaos. Edward is forced to put the war with France on hold and instead partaken in tournaments and creates the Order of the Garter.

Ch 9 The Advent of the Golden Age Edward prepares a major and well-organised assault on the Normandy coast to punish the treachery of the French King and to secure Brittany and Gascony under English control. IMHO Edward's a far more savvy and intelligent negotiated and diplomat then Phillipp VI. And it shows!

Ch 8 Chivalry and Shame In history, Edward III shines brightly as a noble paragon of chivalry, justice and perfect kingship. However, in the medieval period, his enemies often smeared and blackened his name with cruel and horrible deeds such as the Countess of Salisbury tale.

Ch 7 Sluys and Tournai Victory goes overwhelmingly to Edward at the sea battle of Sluys in 1340 where he smashes the French fleet and humiliates King Philipp VI. However money becomes an issue as Edward is forced to call off the siege of Tournai as he is unable to procure extra funds much to his disgust.