Abstract

Based on a detailed, critical analysis of British Library, Additional MS 8877 (the household roll of Eleanor de Montfort, countess of Leicester), this chapter examines the impact of the Second Barons' War and of Earl Simon's death at the battle of Evesham in August 1265 on Countess Eleanor and on the lives of those who supported or served her. It explores how the Montforts’ personal circumstances underwent a seismic shift after the Lord Edward (future King Edward I) escaped from Montfortian captivity at the end of May 1265 and after Earl Simon was killed at Evesham. It looks at the logistical challenges of running a great household as the war closed in around Eleanor in the south and south-east of England, prior to her flight from Dover into exile in France.