This text attempts to piece together the structural features underlying the reign of Henry III, especially his ventures in European politics. In so doing, it paints a picture more complex than the vainglorious fool of contemporary perception. '... a learned and original account... Both as an imaginative and sympathetic re-creation of human relationships in the past, and as a delicate piece of forensic reasoning [Margaret Howell's essay] is historical writing of a high order.' English Historical Review '... a refreshing analysis... a serious and considered contribution to thirteenth-century scholarship, its authors offering judicious revisions and reinterpretations...' History 'This is an impressive collection of essays which provides fresh insights into the dynamic and multi-dimensional European context in which English affairs operated during Henry III's reign. It makes an original and stimulating contribution to existing scholarship, and as such will be extremely welcome to both students and established scholars.' Welsh History Review