Scottish Wars of Independence: Personality of Edward I

Question 1

Overview of the nature of Edward I’s temperament.

Answer 1

Edward I = Prone to violence and quick tempered

Question 1

When was the siege of Stirling Castle? How does the siege of Stirling Castle present the violent nature of Edward I?

Answer 1

1304: siege of Stirling Castle

Edward need to be dominant figure as wouldn’t let them surrender until he has tried his siege engine.

Question 2

How significant was the execution of the Earl of Atholl relating to Edward I?

Answer 2

Edward I significantly resentful of Scottish figures such as Robert I bc appointed himself as Scottish king 1306
Vengeance against Robert I and those associated with him such as earl of Atholl
Vengeful sentiment imbedded in this violence.

Very significant as earls one of top class of nobility and one 1st earls to be executed since 1076.

Question 3

Michael Prestwich Historiography of Earl of Atholl’s death.

Answer 3

Michael Prestwich: “unprecedented savagery” as be ordered the Earl of Athol to be executed despite reservations from the queen and his magnates.

Question 4

How else can Edward I’s deep rooted hatred for Robert I seen?

Answer 4

women in cages - women associated with Robert I campaign were displayed in cages such as Robert I’s sister Mary Bruce as Edward viewed their support of Robert I as unforgivable and a crime against him + God.

Question 5

Edward I quick temper evident from his actions towards his family. - Give Examples.

Answer 5

A squire sneezed at his daughter’s wedding and he decides to batter the person with a stick. The squire was given money by Edward as compensation

Another example: his son (Edward II) and him had an argument and he ends up ripping a part of his hair + hits him
= Highlights the severity and levels of his temper seen by his actions

Question 6

However, not always ferocious as seen by his grief in consequence of his wife and mother dying. - Who was his wife? How was compassion evident?

Answer 6

Eleanor of Castile = Edward I wife
His wife - he built a moving funeral monument on English countryside into London E.g. Charing Cross was one of her shrines
Strong affections towards family - especially wife as had 16 children with her
+ Travelled together frequently