Evaluate the success of Richard I and John against the French in Normandy.

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the relative success of both kings against the French. Both were trying to maintain Angevin power in the Duchy of Normandy. There may be some evaluation of methods used, such as Richard fighting a war of attrition and securing regained territory by building fortresses such as Chateau Gaillard. He also used diplomacy to gain allies such as the Count of Flanders. By the time of his death, he had regained most of the territory that had been lost to France. However, it could be argued that he did not regain all of the territory and Phillip’s military threat remained strong. Initially, John was able to come to terms with Phillip and accepted his conquest of the Evrecin. However, John’s subsequent actions, such as his marriage to Isabella of Angouleme, led to renewed conflict. His treatment of Arthur of Brittany destroyed the alliance with Flanders. His misrule in the Duchy and the cost of war alienated the Norman barons. After the battle of Bouvines in 1214, Angevin power in Normandy was destroyed. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates make an appraisal of the success of Richard I and John against the French in Normandy.