Through contextual analysis and by reassessing the chronicle evidence, Graham E. Seel presents a compelling reevaluation of the reign of King John.

Acknowledgements; List of Figures; Chapter 1 Outline of the Reign; Chapter 2 John in the Shadows, 1167–1199; Chapter 3 An ‘Imperial’ Inheritance?; Chapter 4 War of Succession and the Loss of Continental Territories, 1199–1204; Chapter 5 Efforts to Regain the French Territories, 1205–1214; Chapter 6 The British Perspective: Scotland, Ireland and Wales, 1199–1214; Chapter 7 Sacerdotium and Regnum, 1199–1214; Chapter 8 Administration, Justice and Finance; Chapter 9 Civil War: A False Start, 1215; Chapter 10 Civil War Renewed, 1215–1216; Chapter 11 Conclusion: Will the Real King John Please Stand Up?; Appendix; Notes; Bibliography; Further Reading; Questions; Index

Graham E. Seel studied history at the University of St Andrews, 1982–1986. From there he proceeded to Cambridge University where he undertook a PGCE, for which he was awarded a Distinction. He has published widely on English history, and he is currently Head of History at St Paul’s School, London.