Explore the rebellion led by Robert against his father, the king. Discover the strategic advantage, political dynamics, and alliances during the rebellion. Learn about the construction of stone fortresses to establish power and the clash between father and son. Uncover Robert's unexpected decision to spare his father's life and the resulting resentment.
Robert launched a rebellion against his own father, backed by wealthy and politically well-positioned friends.
Despite scoring a victory by wounding his father in battle, Robert chose not to seize the moment and abandoned the fight entirely.
Deep dives
Robert's Rebellion and his decision to leave his inheritance
Robert, a knight in his mid-20s, defied his father, King William, and abandoned his inheritance. He had three options - return to his father's court with worsened honor, live as a knight errant and decrease his lifestyle, or launch a rebellion against his own father. He chose the rebellion, backed by wealthy and politically well-positioned friends. With surprise on his side, he rode hard for Ruwan, hoping to take it and show William the need to let go of Normandy. However, they were met with resistance and were unable to take the tower.
Robert's exile to Remiard
After failing to take Ruwan, Robert fled to Remiard, a castle 25 miles south of William's camp. There, he found support from regional noble Hugh de Chateinov on Timre, installing him in the castle. This move not only created a significant obstacle if William wanted to invade the region, but it also allowed Robert to raid Hugh's enemies in exchange for his support.
William's response and the seizure of rebel properties
William declared Robert's followers traitors, seized their properties, and used the confiscated income to pay for his own army. This led to a civil war within the region, with people uncertain about which side to take. However, William's political influence and connections still gave him an advantage, and his actions threatened war on all sides.
Negotiations, sieges, and the battle between William and Robert
Negotiations between William and King Philip of France took place, resulting in an agreement to march against Robert together. The combined force besieged the castle of Jevreois, but the sieges quickly became slow and unproductive. Robert eventually rode out of the castle and engaged in battle with William in the field. Details of the battle are scarce, but Robert wounded William and killed his horse. However, instead of seizing the moment, Robert pulled back, refusing to kill his father and abandoned the fight entirely.
In a fit of rebellion, Robert, the eldest son of William the Conqueror, marches out on his own, defying his father and seeking adventure. However, reality sets in as he realizes the challenges and consequences of his actions. With the support of his companions, who are wealthy and politically connected, Robert launches a rebellion against […]