This is History: A Dynasty to Die For – Season 6, Episode 1: "The Raid"

Introduction

In the premiere episode of Season 6, "The Raid," Sony Music Entertainment delves into one of the most audacious and pivotal moments in medieval European history—the daring assault on Nottingham Castle orchestrated by King Edward III and his loyal companions. Historian Dan Jones masterfully narrates the intricate web of power, betrayal, and ambition that defines the Plantagenet dynasty, setting the stage for transformative events that would shape England's future.

Historical Context: The Tumultuous Reign of Edward II

To comprehend the gravity of "The Raid," it's essential to understand the chaotic backdrop of England under Edward II's rule. Edward's two-decade reign was marked by incompetence, favoritism, and military failures. His indulgence in personal pleasures and disregard for noble sentiments led to widespread disenchantment among his subjects and the aristocracy alike.

"His 20-year reign had been a relentless trash fire of dumbness, viciousness, and national humiliation," explains Dan Jones (15:40). Edward's military blunders, notably the devastating defeat at Bannockburn against the Scots and the humiliating setbacks in Gascony against the French, eroded his credibility and authority.

The tipping point came in 1327 when Edward II was deposed by a coalition led by his ambitious lover, Roger Mortimer, and Mortimer's wife, Queen Isabella. The young Edward III, barely fourteen, was thrust onto the throne amid hopes of a brighter future. However, this transition sowed the seeds for further discord.

Key Figures Leading Up to the Raid

1. Edward III (Edward of Windsor): At just seventeen, Edward III emerges as a beacon of hope. Intelligent, decisive, and charismatic, he embodies the qualities of a future great king. His marriage to Philippa at sixteen and their burgeoning family further solidify his position (10:25).

2. Roger Mortimer, Earl of March: Mortimer, who played a crucial role in deposing Edward II, now wields significant power alongside Queen Isabella. His governance, characterized by paranoia and mismanagement, has drained England's treasury and alienated many nobles. Rumors of his infidelity and ambitions to secure the throne for his alleged illegitimate son have tarnished his reputation.

3. William Montague: A bold and resourceful leader, Montague is pivotal in orchestrating the raid on Nottingham Castle. His loyalty to Edward III and strategic acumen make him indispensable in the quest to overthrow Mortimer's tyrannical regime.

The Night of the Raid: October 19, 1330

The episode vividly reconstructs the tension-filled night when William Montague leads a band of sixteen young men in a meticulously planned assault on Nottingham Castle. The setting is atmospheric: a damp October night, slippery grounds, and the looming presence of the castle atop a 130-foot-high cliff.

"Using hisses and low whistles, he keeps the group together, bringing them around the curve of a steep river cliff," narrates Alice Fraser, vividly painting the stealth and precision of the raid (03:15).

Montague's team infiltrates the castle through a network of secret tunnels, relying on an insider—the castle's speculator—to guide them to the keep. The mission is clear: arrest Mortimer and dismantle his oppressive rule. The stakes are high, as Mortimer has been rounding up dissenters, making the raid a perilous endeavor.

Clash in the Queen's Chambers

Their entrance into the private chambers of Queen Isabella and Mortimer ignites immediate chaos. A fierce battle ensues as guards attempt to repel the invaders. Key moments include:

• Capture of Hugh de Turplington: Mortimer's steward is violently subdued by John Neville, a testament to the raid's brutality (12:45).

• Attempted Escape by Henry Burgas: The Bishop of Lincoln and Lord Chancellor tries to flee, only to be captured after a comical yet grim attempt to hide in the castle's plumbing (17:30).

Amid the turmoil, Roger Mortimer momentarily disappears, heightening the tension. However, a keen-eyed raider spots Mortimer disguised as a bulge in a wall hanging, leading to his capture.

Notable Quote:

"From inside the rock, echoing out from a slit in the cliff face, he hears a cough, and when he peers around the corner into the crevice, he lets out a sigh of relief." – Dan Jones (02:50)

The Execution of Mortimer

With Mortimer apprehended, the young insurgents take swift action. Edward III, demonstrating maturity beyond his years, oversees the proceedings with a firm yet measured hand. Despite Queen Isabella's heartfelt pleas, Edward remains resolute in his decision.

"Edward isn't cruel, but at 17 years old, he has a firm sense of what he wants," Jones observes, highlighting Edward's decisive nature (25:20).

Mortimer is paraded before Parliament, where he's swiftly condemned for a litany of crimes, including the murder of Edward II and embezzlement of royal funds. Stripped of his titles and dignity, Mortimer meets a grisly end at Tyburn, marking the violent closure of his and Isabella's oppressive regime.

Aftermath: The Rise of a Promising King

Edward III's triumph ushers in a new era. He demonstrates qualities of leadership, unity, and charisma that contrast sharply with his predecessors. The establishment of a loyal cadre of noble friends and warriors, symbolized by their signature squad jackets, signifies Edward's strategic approach to governance and alliance-building.

"Edward III is a king with a cool head, a gift for decisive, unifying leadership and a love for parties and people pleasing that will in time earn him the reputation as one of the greatest Plantagenet kings who's ever lived," Dan Jones concludes (28:00).

Notable Quote:

"They have this kind of corporate sensibility that doesn't just carry them through this particular raid, but that Edward will cultivate." – Alice Fraser (29:17)

Implications for the Future

While Edward III emerges as a capable and promising ruler, the episode hints at impending challenges. Scotland, under the formidable King David the Altar Ship, poses a significant threat. The groundwork laid by Edward's strategic alliances and charismatic leadership will be crucial as he navigates these emerging conflicts.

Conclusion

"The Raid" masterfully encapsulates a transformative moment in English history, highlighting the interplay of personal ambition, strategic planning, and the quest for power. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous detail, the episode not only recounts the events of a single night but also paints a broader picture of the Plantagenet dynasty's enduring legacy.

For history enthusiasts and newcomers alike, Season 6 promises a captivating exploration of the Plantagenets, unraveling the complex tapestry of medieval power dynamics and the individuals who shaped them.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "His 20-year reign had been a relentless trash fire of dumbness, viciousness, and national humiliation." – Dan Jones (15:40)

• "Using hisses and low whistles, he keeps the group together, bringing them around the curve of a steep river cliff." – Alice Fraser (03:15)

• "Edward isn't cruel, but at 17 years old, he has a firm sense of what he wants." – Dan Jones (25:20)

• "They have this kind of corporate sensibility that doesn't just carry them through this particular raid, but that Edward will cultivate." – Alice Fraser (29:17)

Final Thoughts

This episode sets a compelling foundation for the season, blending historical facts with engaging narratives that breathe life into the characters and events of the Plantagenet dynasty. As Edward III steps into his role as king, listeners are poised to witness the unfolding of a legacy marked by both turmoil and triumph.