Piers Gaveston and Edward II had a notorious relationship, which is considered one of the most infamous ménage à trois in British royal history. Gaveston first appeared in Edward’s household accounts in 1300, and by 1306, he was banished to France by King Edward I, Edward’s father. However, as soon as Edward I died in 1307, Edward II made Gaveston Earl of Cornwall.
The Closeness Between Gaveston and Edward II
The relationship between the two men was so close that it caused embarrassment to Edward’s bride, Isabella of France, and her family during their wedding day. Despite this, Gaveston remained in charge of the kingdom while Edward was preparing to marry in France.
The closeness between the two men was not well-received by the nobility, who saw it as a threat to the succession. In 1308, Edward II’s father-in-law, Philip the Fair, paid the earls of Lincoln and Pembroke to remove Gaveston from power.
Despite being exiled from all royal lands, Gaveston was eventually reunited with the king, and the pair were not to be separated. Gaveston was eventually captured and executed as a traitor in 1312, causing Edward II to swear revenge on those who had killed Gaveston.
The Controversy Surrounding the Relationship
Historians are divided on whether or not the relationship between Edward II and Piers Gaveston was romantic, but it is clear that their relationship was a source of controversy and resistance. The maîtresse-en-titre was an important position at court, and the role was expected to be filled by an educated, aristocratic, and female mistress. However, King Edward II tried to treat his male lovers in the same way as female mistresses, which caused resistance.
The Significance of the Relationship
The relationship between Edward II and Piers Gaveston is a fascinating study of power, politics, and sexuality in the British royal family. It highlights the complex dynamics of court life and the challenges faced by those who did not conform to societal norms.
Key Facts about Piers Gaveston and Edward II
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| First Appearance | Gaveston first appeared in Edward’s household accounts in 1300. |
| Banishment | Gaveston was banished to France by King Edward I in 1306. |
| Elevation to Earl of Cornwall | After Edward I’s death in 1307, Edward II made Gaveston Earl of Cornwall. |
| Controversy | The closeness between Gaveston and Edward II caused embarrassment to Edward’s bride, Isabella of France, and her family. |
| Removal from Power | In 1308, Edward II’s father-in-law, Philip the Fair, paid the earls of Lincoln and Pembroke to remove Gaveston from power. |
| Execution | Gaveston was eventually captured and executed as a traitor in 1312. |
| Relationship Debate | Historians are divided on whether the relationship between Edward II and Piers Gaveston was romantic. |
The relationship between Piers Gaveston and Edward II is a complex and fascinating chapter in British royal history. It highlights the power struggles, political intrigue, and societal norms of the time, and continues to be a topic of interest for historians and enthusiasts alike.