A documentary on The Hundred Years’ War, produced in 2013 by the BBC. Presented by cultural historian Janina Ramirez. This documentary takes us back to the time when the ruling classes of France and England were relatives. They shared the same values, had the same codes of behavior and language, and disputed the same lands. France was the old and rich region, while England, conquered by the mainland Normans in 1066, was relatively poor. The roles were reversed as the English king, Edward III, thought he had a claim on the French throne. What followed was a brutal war that ravished France and impoverished the population.
Episode 1: Trouble in the Family 1337–1360
This episode the start of the war, how Edward III of England claimed the French throne instead of Philip VI of France
Episode 2: Breaking the Bonds 1360–1415
As war ravished France, England got richer. Mainly due to the military prowess of Edward, the black prince of England, who fought and won many battles. France tried to counter the attacks by appointing Betrand de Guesclin as military leader. Nonetheless, the French lost the legendary Battle of Agincourt.
Episode 3: Agents of God 1415–1453
France was divided within as well. Burgundy, the richest part of Europe and de jure subject to the French throne, defied the French king Charles VI the Mad and opened negations with the English. Once a powerful kingdom, France was now an impoverished and divided country, at war for almost a century. During this crisis, Joan of Arc could emerge as the rescuer of France.