Bosworth 1485: The Downfall of Richard III

Osprey Campaign #360

by Christopher Gravett, Graham Turner (Illustrations)

A new study of the Battle of Bosworth, the climactic battle of the Wars of the Roses, based on a new interpretation of events following the discovery of the true location of the battlefield.

The battle of Bosworth was the culmination of the dynastic struggle between the houses of York and Lancaster known as the Wars of the Roses that dominated England in the second half of the 15th century. Edward IV had secured the throne for the house of York, but his early death in 1483, followed by the death of his sons and the taking of the throne by his brother, Richard of York saw a renewed outbreak of fighting. Richard's reign was dogged by rumors of his involvement in murder and began with a major rebellion in 1483, which was put down. Richard faced threats from not only lords he alienated but the Lancastrian faction waiting in the wings, and Henry Tudor decided to take the huge risk of attempting to seize the throne. Richard positioned himself in central England and from there marched to meet Henry's army, finally clashing near Market Bosworth.

Guiding the reader from the campaign's origins to its aftermath, and covering the commanders and forces of King Richard III and Henry Tudor, this is a complete treatment of one of the most important events in English history. The story of Bosworth has been transformed in the 20th century as an extensive survey between 2005 and 2009 by the Battlefields Trust has pinpointed the location of the battlefield, for many years a source of debate and controversy, and this new history is based on that interpretation. It will also highlight the incredible discovery of Richard III's remains in Leicester, the study of the bones and relate this to what was previously thought had happened to him at the end of the battle.

Genres: History, Military History

96 pages, Paperback

Published February 23, 2021

About the author

Chris Gravett is a former Senior Curator at the Royal Armouries, Tower of London, and a recognized authority on the arms, armour, and warfare of the medieval world. He has worked as an advisor for numerous TV and film productions, and has written many books. He currently works as a curator at Woburn Abbey, Bedfordshire.

Reviews

[Stephen Ede-Borrett · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would never doubt Gravett's expertise on weaponry and armour but his narrative writing is genuinely not good. The text is continual (and by 'continual I mean almost every other sentence) and thus very wearisome, perhaps, may have, maybe, might have, etc. I accept this is necessary sometimes when writing history but, come on, make a decision sometimes at least!

Additionally the narrative is, at times, very confused. If you read what the text actually says Henry's Army was at three different places on 19th August, whilst I am sure this isn't what was intended it is indicative of the confusion in the writing. It is not a bad book but there are a great many more, and better, narratives of the 1485 campaign and battle available.

I would also add, one final comment that I found Turner's colour plates 'stiff' - there is no movement or excitement about them (you'll see what I mean if you look at the cover illustration - Richard appears to be just sitting holding his arm in the air. Yes, it IS far better than I could paint but I'm not being paid as an artist).

Overall, an okay book, but you can get better on the subject.

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short but profusely illustrated analysis of the Bosworth campaign.

[Sabastian Burlison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!

If you like history especially the Medieval Era this is for you! The beginning of the Tudor Dynasty and the death of a King.