Geoffrey de Mandeville: A study of the Anarchy

"Geoffrey de Mandeville: A Study of the Anarchy" by John Horace Round is a journey into a chaotic era of medieval England, spotlighting Geoffrey de Mandeville, who stood as a representation of the turbulent feudal system during the time known as "the Anarchy". The book looks at the underlying issues and reasons behind the instability that took place during King Stephen's reign, examining Geoffrey's life and important charters that defined the people and time. The beginning introduces the political environment surrounding Stephen becoming king, highlighting the uncertainty and controversial nature of his claim to the throne after his uncle's passing, and explores Stephen's efforts to secure power despite facing resistance from key areas. The idea is that understanding Geoffrey de Mandeville’s actions and motivations offers a valuable perspective on the historical events of this period, revealing how personal desires, alliances, and legal documents played a significant role in shaping England’s story during a time of turmoil.