Bibliograph

The White Ship, conquest, anarchy and the wrecking of Henry I's dream, Charles Spencer

Type

Label

The White Ship, conquest, anarchy and the wrecking of Henry I's dream, Charles Spencer

Language

eng

Bibliography note

Includes bibliographical references (pages 313-322) and index

resource.biographical

contains biographical information

Illustrations

illustrationsplatesmaps

Index

index present

Literary Form

non fiction

Main title

The White Ship

Nature of contents

bibliography

Oclc number

1180282893

Responsibility statement

Charles Spencer

Sub title

conquest, anarchy and the wrecking of Henry I's dream

Summary

The sinking of the White Ship on the 25th November 1120 is one of the greatest disasters that England has ever suffered. Its repercussions would change English and European history for ever. King Henry I was sailing for England in triumph after four years of fighting the French. Congregating with the king at the port of Barfleur on that freezing night was the cream of Anglo-Norman society, including the only legitimate heir to the throne. By 1120, Henry was the most formidable ruler in Europe with an enviable record on the battlefield, immense lands and wealth and unprecedented authority in his kingdoms. Everything he had worked for was finally achieved, and he was ready to hand it on to his beloved son, William AEtheling. Henry I and his retinue set out first. The White Ship - considered the fastest afloat - would follow, carrying the young prince. Spoilt and arrogant, William had plied his comrades and crew with drink from the minute he stepped aboard. It was the middle of the night when the drunken helmsman rammed the ship into rocks. There would be only one survivor from the gilded roll call of passengers ..

Table Of Contents

Triumph -- Disaster -- Chaos

Classification