505 – The Battle of Tinchebray
Summary
This episode covers the 1106 conflict between King Henry I and Duke Robert Curthose, beginning with Henry’s political maneuvering to resolve his dispute with Archbishop Anselm. The narrative details Henry’s failed attempt to seize the fortified abbey of Saint-Pierre-sur-Dive and the subsequent siege of Tinchebray, which forced Robert to challenge Henry to battle. The climax is the Battle of Tinchebray, where Henry’s tactical flank attack routed Robert’s forces, leading to the Duke’s capture and effectively ending the war for Normandy.
Topics discussed
Intro: Henry I and Anselm's standoff at Bec
Anselm returns to England as Regent
Death of Fulk the Younger and succession in Anjou
Henry's 1106 campaign for Normandy begins
The trap at Saint-Pierre and Henry's counter-attack
Siege of Tinchebray and Thomas's hesitation
Robert's ultimatum and the armies assemble
Henry's insulting offer to Duke Robert
Pre-battle politics and muddy conditions
The Battle of Tinchebray and Robert's capture
Aftermath: Robert imprisoned for life
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