Henry VI Book

Readable History of Henry VI's Reign

John Watt's introduction to this book nearly caused me not to read it. Watt basically disparages the author's findings and it's a critique of Wolffe's work rather than a standard introduction. Introductions shouldn't be so negative. I gave up reading the introduction half way through, reading it after I'd finished the book when it made more sense and wasn't off-putting.

I discovered much reading this history. I thought the French conquests of Henry V had largely been lost during Henry VI's minority. Not true. Medieval England couldn't cope with a weak ruler especially one who lost his senses. Whether Henry was incompetent and wilful, as Wolffe alleges, or weak and easily manipulated as others suggest during his more sentient moments, it cost him his crown, life and the termination of the Lancastrian dynasty.