The Reigns of King Richard I and King John, 1189-1216

In the exam you might be asked to describe the features of something from the Medieval period.  This type of question is worth 4 marks and is quite straight forward. An example of this type of question is: Describe two features of landholding in the years 1189-1216 (4 marks) or Describe two features of the relationship between vassals and their lords in the feudal hierarchy. (4 marks) You will be given a source to help you with this question. For example: Source B An example of forfeiture taken from local court records in the reign of King John. The source is referring to the period 1200-14 when John was fighting against the French King Philip II. ‘…the manor of Chinnole along with the Hamlet of Sydenham was held…[by Walter de Vernon] from the Lord king of England…as one knight’s fee. [B] ecause Walter de Vernon refused to perform his due service from the manor to King John (in the time of the war which sprang up between the king and the king of Franc, [the kin...

In the Middle Ages peoples' lives were not simply ruled by the King or the local Lord.  For most people the Church had a huge impact on their lives.  The Roman Catholic Church dominated Europe.  The Pope was the head of the Church and he had great influence.  In many ways it is probably easier to think of him being like a King.  Popes would try to control and influence Medieval Kings; but the Kings did not like the Pope interfering in their Kingdoms.  This often could lead to disagreement.  However, Medieval Kings also wanted to show their piety or faith and this meant they often led Crusades to the Holy Land.  In Medieval England the Church was a rich and powerful force.  It was a major landowner and Archbishops and Bishops would be tenants-in-chief.  This meant they would help advise the King.  Churchmen could read and write and played a useful role in government.  This meant they were often called Clerics and were used to ke...

Life in England in the Middle Ages was very different to today.  Society was organised  by a structure called the Feudal System; in this system it was very difficult to change or improve your position in society - if you were born a peasant; you would die a peasant. In the course it is important that you understand the Feudal System and know how it worked; there are also a lot of key terms that you must know and be comfortable using. Have a good look at the PowerPoint and check your notes.  Where necessary make notes to fill any gaps. A handout with the source and exam question can be found here.

Welcome to the blog for the Reigns of King Richard and King John, 1189 to 1216. This is a new GCSE and the blog will develop with the course.  Do use the link to the exam board web pages.  These will have lots of useful information to help you with the course.  This blog is not intended to be a replacement for the textbook, but a place that will take you to other useful sites that will have additional information and where possible it will contain resources from the lessons.