King Edward II’s reputation precedes him: an “effete” ruler, more interested in his controversial male favourites than the weighty matters of state. But was this the full picture? Join acclaimed Medieval Historian Dr Helen Carr as she delves deep into Edward II’s extraordinary and chaotic reign in History Hit’s documentary, Edward II: Worst King of England? Helen starts by revealing myth-busting depictions of Edward II which portray a king serious about his role, even leading armies into battle – far from the effeminate figure later popularised by Victorian artists. So, where did it all go wrong, and why has Edward II’s image been so skewed over time? Born in 1284 and heir to the formidable Edward I, Edward II inherited a vast kingdom. After his father’s death, 23 year old Edward looked for help from his closest friends, including Piers Gaveston, a man with whom Edward shared an intense close connection with, possibly sexual. Helen explores this bond, and how Edward’s giving of titles, attention and money to Gaveston after recalling him from exile in France alienated many of his traditional supporters amongst the nobility who saw this behaviour as inappropriate. “All of these things were things that the old noble families of England were expecting to come to them… If the job of king of England in the 14th century is in part a management position, Edward is an absolutely terrible manager.” says historian Dr Kit Heyam. Edward’s actions had ignited aristocratic fury, setting him on a collision course with England’s powerful aristocracy almost from the very moment of his ascension in 1307. Dr Helen Carr with Dr Paul Dryburgh, principal record specialist at The National Archives, during filming. They are looking at a Charter drawn up by Edward II (less than a month after he became king), bestowing on Piers Gaveston the Earldom of Cornwall.Image Credit: History Hit Through rare illuminated charters, historical records, and expert analysis, Helen also delves into the dramatic power struggles that defined Edward’s reign: the imposing of the ‘Ordinances’ to curb his power, the ruthless machinations of figures like Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, and the infamous Battle of Bannockburn against Robert the Bruce, a devastating defeat that shattered English authority in Scotland. Dr Helen Carr also uncovers the complexities of Edward’s other relationships, including that of his sometimes successful, sometimes deadly, marriage in 1308 to the 12-year-old Isabella of France and the birth of the future Edward III. Sign up to watch As Edward’s reign progressed and with Gavetson gone, a new set of favourites emerged – the Despensers. Helen speaks to writer and historian Kathryn Warner who explains how subsequently “We see this real break in Edward’s character. Earlier on with Gaveston he had been a much nicer and perhaps kinder and gentler individual… but then later he falls for Hugh Despenser in whatever way, who was a coercive manipulative type and Edward’s personality just changes completely.” The Despensers’ influence, particularly that of Hugh Despenser the Younger, pushed Edward towards tyranny and ultimately, alienation from all who cared for him, including his formidable queen, Isabella. Helen goes on to chart Isabella’s transformation from loyal wife to “She-Wolf of France,” as she, allied with the exiled Roger Mortimer, orchestrated a dramatic coup against the Despensers that would lead to Edward’s downfall. Dr Helen Carr at Edward II’s tomb at Gloucester CathedralImage Credit: History Hit And then, the mystery of Edward II’s death – was it the infamous, horrific fate of the red-hot poker, or something far more ambiguous? Helen dissects the origins of this enduring gruesome myth of Edward’s probable murder, revealing how later chronicles and plays sensationalised his demise. Edward II: Worst King of England? is an exploration of power, loyalty, betrayal, and reputation. Was Edward truly England’s worst king, or simply a complex monarch caught between tradition and his own progressive (and often disastrous) instincts? Watch and decide for yourself. Sign up to watch