This course will set out the context of the period and describe Henry's successful taking of the English Crown, his prowess as a soldier and a King. His reign was spoiled by his reluctance to delegate any power to his four sons. His marriage to Eleanor Duchess of Aquitaine started well but eventually became very acrimonious. Their four sons were Henry the Young King a spoiled youth with no responsibilities, Geoffrey Duke of Brittany whose claim of fame was his son Arthur who had a claim to the throne, Richard the Lionheart a majestic soldier but a poor king and lastly John Lackland an evil malicious individual forced by his barons to deliver Magna Carta but immediately reneged on his promises.