Top 10 Most Notorious Kings of the Medieval Period

In the annals of medieval history, there were kings whose names evoke a sense of awe and admiration, revered for their wisdom, bravery, and benevolent rule.


“Few rulers in history have possessed such a combination of ambition and ruthlessness as King John of England. His reign was marked by a series of disastrous decisions and a complete disregard for the welfare of his subjects.”

Historian John Gillingham


However, there is another side to the medieval monarchy—a darker and more tumultuous one. These were the kings whose reigns were marked by controversy, cruelty, and infamy.


Greensleeves Song King Henry III

From ruthless conquerors to tyrannical rulers, their actions and decisions left a lasting impact on the course of history.

Join us as we journey through the corridors of power and explore the top 10 most notorious kings of the medieval period, whose legacies continue to intrigue and bewilder us to this day.

 

1. King John of England

King John is infamous for his tyrannical rule, marked by conflicts with the barons and his signing of the Magna Carta under duress. His reign was characterized by unrest, military failures, and oppressive governance.


2. Vlad the Impaler

Vlad III, also known as Vlad the Impaler or Vlad Dracula, ruled Wallachia and gained a reputation for his brutal methods of punishment. His cruel tactics, including impaling his enemies, instilled fear throughout the region.


3. King Richard III of England

Richard III is best known for his alleged involvement in the disappearance of his nephews, the Princes in the Tower, and his usurpation of the English throne. His reign was marred by political intrigue and controversy.


4. King Henry VIII of England

Henry VIII’s reign was marked by his multiple marriages, dissolution of the monasteries, and break with the Roman Catholic Church. His actions had far-reaching consequences for the religious and political landscape of England.


5. King John Lackland of England

King John Lackland’s reign was plagued by conflicts with his barons, resulting in the signing of the Magna Carta. He was known for his arbitrary rule and lack of military success.


6. King Henry VI of England

Henry VI’s reign was characterized by political instability and the Wars of the Roses. His weak leadership contributed to the outbreak of the civil war between the Houses of Lancaster and York.


7. King Charles VI of France

Charles VI’s reign was marked by episodes of insanity, leading to power struggles and political instability in France. The period became known as the “Mad King” era.


8. King Philip IV of France

Philip IV, also known as Philip the Fair, is remembered for his ruthless and manipulative rule. He clashed with the Pope, suppressed the Knights Templar, and consolidated royal power.


9. King Edward II of England

Edward II faced significant challenges during his reign, including conflicts with the barons and his tumultuous relationship with his wife, Queen Isabella. His ineffective rule eventually led to his deposition and murder.


10. King Louis XI of France

Louis XI is known for his cunning and Machiavellian approach to governance. He consolidated power, weakened feudal lords, and centralized the French monarchy.



These kings left a controversial and often dark legacy, characterized by their actions, decisions, and impact on the medieval societies they ruled.

“King Richard III’s reputation has been forever stained by the allegations of his involvement in the murder of his young nephews, the Princes in the Tower. His short reign was characterized by political intrigue and a ruthless pursuit of power.”

Historian Alison Weir

While some may have achieved significant political or military successes, their notoriety stems from the negative aspects of their reigns and the controversies surrounding their actions.


Top 10 Most Notorious Kings of the Medieval Period | Great Books

“The Plantagenets: The Warrior Kings and Queens Who Made England” by Dan Jones
This book provides a comprehensive and captivating account of the Plantagenet dynasty, including the reigns of notable medieval kings such as Henry II, Richard the Lionheart, and Edward III.

“The Time Traveler’s Guide to Medieval England: A Handbook for Visitors to the Fourteenth Century” by Ian Mortimer
Offering a unique perspective, this book takes readers on an immersive journey through medieval England, exploring its customs, daily life, and the challenges faced by its people.

“The Wars of the Roses” by Alison Weir
Focusing on one of the most tumultuous periods in English history, this book delves into the power struggles and conflicts that engulfed the country during the 15th century, as rival noble families vied for the throne.

“The Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer
This literary masterpiece provides a fascinating glimpse into medieval society through a collection of stories told by a diverse group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury.

“Medieval Europe: A Short History” by Judith M. Bennett and C. Warren Hollister
A concise and accessible overview of medieval Europe, this book covers various aspects of the period, including political events, social structures, religion, and cultural developments.