Wars of the Roses, The
#2 in A Royal History Of England Series
What’s inside...
From Henry VI, the first Lancastrian king, to Richard III, and his death at Bosworth, this book follows the history of the kings of the houses of Lancaster and York, who shaped this tumultuous period of English history. Anthony Cheetham provides insight into the politics, society, and economy of this time, and above all, he conveys the personal histories and characters of its rulers. The book is part of the series A Royal History of England which spans from the Norman times to the present queen, exploring the scandals, triumphs, and changes in public image of the British royal family.
Character compass
Henry Vi
Margaret Of Anjou
Richard Iii
Richard Neville, Earl Of Warwick
Edward Iv
Richard, Duke Of York
Discussion points
What do you think were the main reasons behind the conflicts in the Wars of the Roses?
How do the characters in the book respond to the challenges they face? What would you have done differently?
Can you identify any heroes or villains in the story? What makes them heroic or villainous in your view?
How does the setting of the story impact the events that unfold? Can you imagine these events happening in today's world?
What lessons can we learn about leadership and power from the characters and their decisions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the setting of the Wars of the Roses, asking them how they would navigate the challenges presented.
Discuss the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by characters, relating them to contemporary issues to deepen understanding and relevance.
Highlight the importance of decision-making and consequences, using examples from the book to illustrate these themes in a comprehensible way.
Create parallels between the historical events in the book and current events to foster a connection between past and present, enhancing comprehension.
Use the story's characters to discuss the traits of leadership, asking your child what qualities they believe make a good leader.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding historical conflicts
Explanation: The book delves into the intricate details of the Wars of the Roses, explaining the causes, key figures, and consequences of this significant historical event.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by developing a deeper understanding of history, fostering critical thinking about how past conflicts shape current events.
Example Lesson: Importance of alliances
Explanation: The narrative showcases how alliances played crucial roles in the outcomes of battles and political dynamics during the Wars of the Roses.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the value of teamwork and cooperation, understanding how alliances can lead to achieving common goals in group assignments or sports.
Example Lesson: Consequences of power struggles
Explanation: The story illustrates the impacts of the power struggles on the country and its people, revealing the instability and chaos that often accompany such conflicts.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully and the dangers of unchecked ambition.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book face various challenges but show resilience, adapting to new circumstances and striving forward.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be resilient in the face of personal challenges, whether in school or in their social lives.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: The book often reflects on the missteps made by key figures, providing a platform for understanding the importance of learning from errors.
Real-World Application: Children can embrace this approach in their academic and personal lives, recognizing that mistakes are opportunities for growth and improvement.