5 - Edward III, the Navy and the Disinherited (1331–1335)

Summary

The capture of Mortimer had a profound effect on Edward’s rule. Edward III’s style of leadership was similar to that of Edward II, in that he relied on his closest friends to advise him. The group which had helped to capture Mortimer, or supported him during his minority, was awarded with the most important offices. Unlike his father, Edward III’s circle was not exclusive. His taste for tournaments and Arthurian literature proved popular with the nobility, and allowed considerable scope for pageantry. He relied heavily on Montague, but Montague was able, popular and trustworthy. The king’s relationship with Montague was close, but unlike Edward II’s relationship with Gaveston or Despenser it did not exclude other nobles, and there was nothing scandalous about it. Montague’s wife was notoriously in more danger from Edward’s attentions than Montague himself. Perhaps most importantly and most unlike his father, Edward III was fascinated by war. He would become a consummate leader of men who would soon manifest signs of military genius. This did not initially extend to the navy. He gave away La Cog Johan to Peter Bard at a time of financial stress in 1332. However he had realised the importance of naval commanders. As there were no admirals, the only naval commander in the kingdom was the Warden of the Cinque Ports. The current Warden was Bartholemew Burghersh, one of Mortimer’s adherents. Edward was a forgiving man, good at inspiring loyalty in former enemies. Burghersh served him well in future years but Edward was also prudent, replacing him as Warden with William Clinton before February 1331. Clinton was a member of the king’s council, one of his jousting circle and one of Mortimer’s captors. He was completely trustworthy and would prove highly efficient.

By early 1331 Edward was hungry for glory. Attacking France had been rendered unlawful after Philip VI persuaded Edward to correctly perform homage. The young king nevertheless agitated for a confrontation with France in parliament, but could generate little enthusiasm. Scotland had recently paid Edward 30,000 marks in accordance with the Turpis Pax, so he had no excuse to intervene there. The truce with Flanders left one legitimate alternative: Ireland. Ireland was a neglected backwater, nominally ruled by the kings of England.