Monarchy with David Starkey

The unique idea of a monarch who is answerable to the people has its roots in early AngloSaxon kings such as Alfred the Great the intellectual warrior who united England

After decades of pounding by Danish invaders intent on shock and awe England survives and thrivesbut faces a true crisis after Edward the Confessors death

With a mere 7000 soldiers William of Normandy conquers and brutally subjugates a nation of two million changing Englands culture social structure and politics forever

Charismatic and hottempered Henry II restores order to his realm by law and by the sword Later in his line the Magna Carta curbs and codifies royal power

During the century of Edwards the Hammer of the Scots boldly extends their rule over neighboring kingdoms After Edward II loses the crown as a captive of his passions Edward III styles himself as a new King Arthur

In a kingly conflict dramatized and embellished by Shakespeare Richard II and his cousin Henry Bolingbroke vie for the throne They begin a decadeslong struggle that threatens the very basis of the English monarchy