Summary

In the "Note on names, dates, and money" author Lauren Johnson outlines some key contextual points. First, she notes that, in referring to an age of "unimaginative forenames and complex titles," she opts for clarity in lieu of strict historical accuracy when naming key figures in this history (ix). She also notes that the medieval calendar was different from the contemporary one, but that she follows modern dating conventions in this book. Finally, she explains the key historical monetary denominations, such as a mark or a sol, that will appear in the narrative.

In November 1422, a grand funeral procession reached London from the start of its journey in France. The cortege was for the death of King Henry V and it's grandiosity reflected the king's status in life. Absent, as per custom, was the deceased son, the new Henry VI, who was...