Monarchy in the Later Middle Ages

1. What does the reign of Henry II suggest about the future of English foreign relations?

Henry II was a very important player in the Middle Ages. When he came to power, he was young and rash and so may not have made the best of decisions concerning his positions. However, through marriage and thoughtfulness, he was able to gain more land and more power. Eventually he became extremly powerful and was like a High-King in Ireland. With much influence in much of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England, Henry II commanded much influence and respect. His foreign relations are strong condsidering that he has highly placed friends in each of those countries. However, other countries would probably not want to initiate a war with Henry II considering his army and range of influence.

2. Does the common conception of Richard as 'good' and John as 'bad' hold up to reality?

No it does not. Richard and John could be seen as equals in being "good" or "bad". They both betrayed family members and armed themselves to fight against family. Both also had the intentions of what they wanted. John had a lavish lifestyle and spent to much money on himself while Richard was not as exspensive. Back in the Middle Ages it was common for Richard and John to act as they had. Being in such a position of such wealth and power made them want even more. It was a commonplace for kings and brothers and sons of kings to act in the way that they had.

3. How did the Magna Carta change the relationship of the Monarch and his subjects?

The Magna Carta immensely changed the relationship of the Monarch and subjects. With this decree, the Monarch was no longer above the law of the land. He had to deal with the same repercussions as anyone else.