Henry de Lacy, Earl of Lincoln (1272-1311), as locum tenens et capitaneus in the duchy of Aquitaine

Abstract

This thesis is a detailed reconstruction and analysis of the terms of appointment, functions, events and success of Henry de Lacy,Third Earl of Lincoln, as locum tenens et capitaneus in the duchy of Aquitaine. He acted in these capacities in the years 1295-1298 during the second half of the Gascon war. Although the earl of Lincoln's tenure of office was brief, it was important for the outcome of the Anglo—French struggle for possession of the duchy. Henry de Lacy's great contribution lay in his success in stabilising the military conflict and maintaining ducal resistance to French attempts at a total annexation of Aquitaine. By so doing, he ensured the duchy's continued existence as a Plantagenet fief. Through examination of contemporary diplomatic and narrative sources both published and unpublished, I have been able to clarify Henry de Lacy's particular role in events, to identify beyond question the site of the battle of Bellegarde, to examine the battle itself more fully than before, to establish the paucity of Henry de Lacy's troop—resources as capitaneus of the King's men in the duchy, and to confirm in greater detail than hitherto the measure of Gascon loyalty to King Edward I throughout the war. The administrative and military powers of the earl of Lincoln have been analysed in relation to royal authority,and thereby the King's personal continuous involvement in the affairs of his duohy has been established. I have based this work on contemporary evidence, mainly at the Public Record Office, London, and on both English and French chronicles of the period. I have also compiled an appendix on Gascon troop—resources and a Calendar of references to Henry de Lacy found in contemporary records, which can be submitted to the examiners if they wish it.