Louis VIII
Louis: the French Prince who Invaded England
By Catherine Hanley (1972- )
New Haven and London: Yale, 2016
ISBN 0300217455 / 9780300217452
No full biography of Louis VIII could be found, however this recent book, which focuses on Louis’ attempt to seize the throne of England, briefly describes his early years and his subsequent short reign in France.
Louis the Lion, the son of King Philip II of France, came close to being king of England but never quite made it. In the wake of the death of John his claim by force of arms had some success but his star waned and he returned to France.
This fascinating book published by Yale in 2016 tells the story of the king who nearly was and how England almost had a King Louis I. It is not a biography but an account of the attempt by Louis to seize the throne of England. It is a description of the military campaign, with an examination of why this was thought to be a good idea.
For English history readers, this is an important link between the death of King John and the beginning of the reign of his son Henry III. It’s a story not often told. This book redresses that omission.
Catherine Hanley is a researcher and novelist rather than an educator and has a lengthy background in medieval history. She holds a PhD in Medieval Studies.
Reign: 1223 - 1226
French appellation: Louis the Lion
Concurrent English Monarch:
Henry III (1216 - 1272)
