Agincourt is one of the most famous battles in English history, a
defining part of the national myth. This groundbreaking study by Mike
Livingston, author of Never Greater Slaughter, presents a new
interpretation of Henry V's great victory.
King Henry V's victory over the French armies at Agincourt on 25 October
1415 is unquestionably one of the most famous battles in history. From
Shakespeare's 'band of brothers' speech to its appearances in numerous
films, Agincourt rightfully has a place among a handful of conflicts
whose names are immediately recognized around the world.
The English invasion of France in 1415 saw them take the French port of
Harfleur after a long siege, following which Henry was left with a sick
and weakened army, which he chose to march across Normandy to the port
of Calais against the wishes of his senior commanders. The French had
assembled a superior force and shadowed the English Army before finally
blocking its route. The battle that followed was an overwhelming victory
for the English, with the French suffering horrific casualties.
Agincourt opened the door for Henry V's further conquests in France.
Agincourt provides a new look at this famous battle. Mike Livingston
goes back to the original sources, including the French battle plan that
still survives today, to give a new interpretation, one that challenges
the traditional site of the battlefield itself. It is a thrilling new
history that not only rewrites the battle as we know it, but also
provides fresh insights into the men who fought and died there.
