Book Description

Robert the Bruce (1[zasłonięte]274-13) was the famous unifier of Scotland and defeater of the English at Bannockburn - the legendary hero responsible for Scottish independence. In this new biography, Michael Penman retells the story of Robert's rise - his part in William Wallace's revolt against Edward I, his seizing of the Scottish throne after murdering his great rival John Comyn, his excommunication, guerilla war against the English, and devastating battles against an enemy Scottish coalition - climaxing in his victory over Edward II's forces in June 1314. He then draws attention to the second part of the king's life after the victory that made his name. These fifteen years were crucial. Robert faced a slow and often troubled process of legitimating his authority, rewarding his supporters, accommodating former enemies and controlling the various regions of his kingdom, none of which was achieved overnight. Penman investigates Robert's resettlement of lands and offices, the development of Scotland's parliaments, his handling of plots to overthrow him, his relations with his family and allies, his piety and court ethos, and his cultivation of an image of kingship through the use of ceremony and symbol. In doing so, Penman repositions Robert within the context of wider European political change, religion, culture and national identity, showing how great a monarch, as well as military man, Robert actually was.

About the Author

Michael Penman is Senior Lecturer in History at the University of Stirling, and author of "The Scottish Civil War" (2002) and "David II, 1329-71" (2004). He is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.