Power struggles, betrayal, rivalry, prison. Sounds like politics in the 21st century, right? In fact, I am describing the Anarchy Period in 1139! The Anarchy took the country by surprise and lasted for 15 years. The country was torn apart by this war of succession. Let’s explore the chaos leading to and following the imprisonment of King Stephen in Bristol Castle… [61]
Background on Bristol Castle
In the heart of the city, this motte and bailey castle is rich with history. It was located in what is now Castle Park. Built in the 11th century, it was made of stone imported from Normandy, creating incredibly thick walls. Surrounding it, the Rivers Avon and Frome created a moat. As it was in a strategic position, there were continuous alterations made to ensure that it would serve various purposes, from being a defensive stronghold to a royal treasury. Though it was originally built in a Norman style, it later evolved into stronger and advanced stone keep. Different rulers added elements to the Castle, ensuring that it would remain a secure spot. This included defensive walls, towers and annexes.
By the end of the English Civil War in the 17th century, the castle was destroyed. It had served so many functions and was a symbol of command over one of the wealthiest towns in the country at the time of its construction.
Historical Background
First, let’s explore why this all happened in the first place. Henry I ruled the kingdom in the early to mid-11th century. There was no question about who was to succeed him. Though he had many illegitimate children, he had one legitimate son – William Adelin. Tragically, William Adelin dies in a shipwreck. This was labelled the White Ship Disaster of 1120. Now who would succeed Henry I? None other than Henry’s only other legitimate child, his daughter Matilda.
After Henry I’s death in 1135, Matilda became ruler. This caused widespread confusion because there was no clarity on women becoming rulers. To add to this, Matilda’s husband was not trusted by her own father and other noblemen. This meant that they started looking for other options to replace her. The obvious choice for many was Henry I’s nephew, Stephen of Blois. He was good in battle, well-connected and wealthy. More importantly, for some, he was a man. This led to Stephen replacing Matilda.
The problems that ensued were the start of the Anarchy Period. Those who supported him had no clue that Stephen was actually a weak leader. Many of them saw this as a positive and took advantage of this for their own benefit. This included barons becoming authoritarian and building more castles.
The chaos peaked when Matilda and her allies decided to invade England in 1139. This was an attempt to regain power. Matilda managed to control the south-west of England, including Bristol while Stephen attempted to defend the south-east. Next, came Stephen’s imprisonment in Bristol Castle.
I’m a King, Get Me Out of Here!
During the Battle of Lincoln in 1141, Stephen’s forces were defeated. He was then captured and held in Bristol Castle. One partial cause of this loss was that the earls that Stephen had carelessly appointed began to turn on him. In fact, the battle had begun with the Earl of Chester siding with Matilda and attempting to take over Lincoln Castle.
Bristol Castle was under the control of Matilda’s half-brother, Robert of Gloucester. Though an illegitimate child of Henry I and never considered for the throne, he was a loyal ally to Matilda. The castle, as mentioned before, was essentially a stronghold with well-built defenses. Stephen lost a lot of support during this period, as it seemed unlikely that he would be able to resume his reign.
Aftermath
As he was imprisoned, Matilda was free to take the throne from Stephen. However, she is unsuccessful in gaining support in the lead up to her coronation. This leads to her expulsion from London.
In a turn of events, Robert of Gloucester is captured during Stephen’s imprisonment. Now powerless, Robert became part of a plan to help Stephen out of Bristol Castle. Then comes a deal: Stephen is exchanged for Robert.
Stephen returns to his throne and attempts to evict Matilda and her forces from their base in Westminster. Stephen then has a run of attacks on Matilda’s new location in Oxford, including surprise attacks which lead to the opposing troops to withdraw to the castle. Matilda, however, sneaks out of the castle and returns to Normandy. In 1147, Robert of Gloucester dies. This further motivates Matilda to return to Normandy as Robert was one of her main supporters.
Following these events, we see more battles and sieges. Matilda sends her son to continue her battle, whilst Stephen appoints his son as heir. The long-lasting chaos comes to an end in 1153 with both sides agreeing to peace after the death of Stephen’s son. Matilda’s son is then crowned as king after Stephen’s death leading to the end of the Anarchy period with Matilda’s eventual success.
Conclusion
King Stephen’s imprisonment in Bristol Castle was a key part of the Anarchy period. Through the various battles and sieges, we can see the different levels of support and motivation for each of the ‘wannabe’ monarchs. Power struggle characterised the 11th century, and we can see how the victory was a tough success. Matilda tried her best to assume the throne but was set back by the opinions of the court and general public. Stephen was supported from the start but turned out to be a weak leader. Amidst the chaos, we can see Bristol Castle as a formidable structure that was utilised by both sides in an attempt to succeed.
Author: Divya Rajesh
Bibliography
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