“Both Louis VII and Philip II (Philip Augustus) were able to expand royal power in France.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits of the statement that both kings were able to expand royal power in France. Candidates may argue that both kings attempted to do this but that Philip II was more successful. Louis VII’s marriage to Eleanor gave him some control of Aquitaine and he appeared to be extending royal power. This ended in 1152 when his marriage to Eleanor was annulled, somewhat reducing his power. Louis was unable to resist the extension of Angevin rule in Normandy, Brittany and Aquitaine despite attempting to exploit tensions between Henry II and his sons. In contrast Philip extended both royal power and the royal demesne. He was the first “King of France”, he brought the nobility under control to some extent. In terms of territory, he gained Touraine and Maine from Henry II and later Normandy from John by 1214. Royal power was also extended to Southern France with the Albigensian Crusade. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that both Louis VII and Philip II (Philip Augustus) were able to expand royal power in France.