Henry II: A Medieval Soldier at War, 1147-1189 (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9789004157248)

There are no book-length studies in any language on the military career of King Henry II of England (1154-1189). Historians have generally regarded his warfare as cautious and limited, and the king himself, while noted for his considerable political and legal accomplishments, is not considered one of the great commanders of the Middle Ages. This book reexamines the medieval evidence and situates Henry II within the context of practiced warfare of the twelfth century. It sketches a narrative of his military activities from boyhood to death and examines his use of fortifications, manpower, strategy, tactics, and weaponry in the prosecution of war. The result is a revision of the king's military legacy: far from a passive or disinterested general, Henry II sought to vanquish his foes and expand his empire by way of direct military confrontation and was, in reality, a proficient commander of men.

Author: John Hosler
ISBN-10: 9004157247
ISBN-13: 9789004157248
Publisher: Brill
Language: English
Published: 03/09/2007
Pages: 276
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.47lbs
Size: 9.69h x 6.55w x 0.87d

Review Citation(s):
Reference and Research Bk News 05/01/2007 pg. 38