Summary

In 1453, the English are defeated in Gascony, ending their 300-year rule over that French territory. Now thirty-one, Henry suddenly falls ill with a sudden mental breakdown. He sinks into a paralyzing catatonia, unable to talk, walk, or even recognize his companions. The cause or diagnosis of this psychosis is unknown. Many over the years have suspected schizophrenia but author Lauren Johnson suggests that it may be severe depression exacerbated by the traumatic events of recent years. Medieval medicine was unsurprisingly useless. Queen Margaret and Somerset collude to keep Henry's illness secret for as long as possible. Meanwhile, feuds between nobles continue to spark violence across the realm.

In October 1453, Margaret gives birth to a son named Edward. With Henry's illness suggesting the possibility of another minority, the major nobles gather, including the Duke of York. During this council, Somerset is blamed for the...