HIS 3331: History of England

The Magna Carta (originally known as the Charter of Liberties) of 1215, written in iron gall ink on parchment in medieval Latin, using standard abbreviations of the period, authenticated with the Great Seal of King John. The original wax seal was lost over the centuries. This document is held at the British Library and is identified as "British Library Cotton MS Augustus II.106".

Please note: If using Firefox some embedded video content may be blocked. You can watch the video by opening this guide in a different browser or by clicking this link: Chivalry and Betrayal: The Hundred Years War.

Video Summary: As the kings of England and the kings of France fought for possession of the crown of France, The Hundred Years’ War would become the longest and the bloodiest conflict in medieval history, replacing the feudal order with an order of nations and propelling France and England into the modern age. Appearing amidst the splendor of the medieval world, cultural historian Dr Nina Ramirez takes viewers on a journey through 116 years of riotous, plague-ridden warfare, exploring how, as the effects of warfare reverberated in every aspect of artistic, cultural and religious life, The Hundred Years’ War would give birth to two distinctive national identities representing the final divorce between France and England – effects of which can still be seen in rivalries today.

• Trouble in the Family, 1337-1360: In this first episode, Dr Janina Ramirez explores the medieval Anglo-French conflict. Edward III crushes the flower of French knighthood at the Battle of Crecy.
• Breaking the Bonds, 1360-1415: In the second episode, England, wracked by plague and revolt, loses the upper hand until Henry V, determined to prove his right to be king, turns the tide at the battle of Agincourt.
• Agents of God, 1415-1453: In this last episode, Henry V has claimed the crown of France for his heirs, but to secure it the English must conquer all of France. Potent French resistance comes in the most unlikely form - an illiterate young peasant girl, Joan of Arc. Dr Janina Ramirez explores the longest and bloodiest divorce in history.