Crown and Country summary

Exploring the Early Monarchy

In Crown and Country by David Starkey, we embark on a journey through the history of the British monarchy. The book begins with the early days of the monarchy, exploring the reigns of the Anglo-Saxon kings and the Norman Conquest. Starkey delves into the lives of these early rulers, their struggles for power, and the establishment of the monarchy as a central institution in England.

Starkey then moves on to the Plantagenet dynasty, a period marked by internal strife, external conflicts, and the establishment of the English Parliament. He provides a detailed account of the reigns of key figures such as Henry II, Richard the Lionheart, and the infamous King John, shedding light on the turbulent political landscape of medieval England.

The Tudors and the Reformation

The narrative then shifts to the Tudor era, a time of great change and transformation. Starkey explores the reigns of the Tudor monarchs, from the rise of Henry VII to the iconic reign of Elizabeth I. He discusses the impact of the English Reformation, the consolidation of royal power, and the emergence of England as a major European power.

Starkey's portrayal of Henry VIII is particularly compelling, as he delves into the king's personal life, his six marriages, and the seismic religious changes that marked his reign. He also examines the reign of Elizabeth I, highlighting her astute political maneuvering and the challenges she faced as a female ruler in a male-dominated world.

The Stuarts and the Civil War

Continuing the journey, Crown and Country takes us into the Stuart period, marked by religious conflicts, political upheaval, and the English Civil War. Starkey provides a detailed account of the reigns of James I, Charles I, and the interregnum under Oliver Cromwell, shedding light on the complex web of religious, political, and social tensions that led to the execution of a king and the establishment of a republic.

He also explores the Restoration period, marked by the return of the monarchy under Charles II, and the Glorious Revolution, which saw the peaceful transition of power to William and Mary. Starkey examines the evolving relationship between the monarchy and Parliament during this period, setting the stage for the constitutional monarchy that would emerge in the 18th century.

The Modern Monarchy

In the final section of the book, Starkey brings us into the modern era, exploring the reigns of key monarchs such as Queen Victoria, Edward VII, and George V. He discusses the changing role of the monarchy in a rapidly evolving society, the impact of two world wars, and the challenges faced by the royal family in maintaining relevance and public support.

He also provides insights into the reign of Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history, and the changing dynamics of the royal family in the 21st century. Throughout Crown and Country, Starkey offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the British monarchy, highlighting its enduring significance and its evolving relationship with the people and the state.