Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster

Henry of Grosmont, Duke of Lancaster (c. 1306–24 March 1361) was a member of the English royal family in the 14th century, and was a prominent English diplomat, politician, and soldier.

Related Topics:
1306 - 24 March - 1361 - English royal family - 14th century - Diplomat - Politician - Soldier

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Henry was born to Henry, 3rd Earl of Lancaster and Maud Chaworth. He became a soldier in the English Army. He led various campaigns in Scotland and France (the Hundred Years War), before orchestrating a monumental (but temporary) peace treaty with France. This placed him in favorable light with the King of England, Edward III of England. Throughout his life, he held many honours, including: Earl of Derby, Earl of Lancaster, Earl of Leicester, Earl of Lincoln, and Duke of Lancaster; he was also a founding Knight of the Garter and Lord High Steward to Edward III.

Related Topics:
Henry, 3rd Earl of Lancaster - Maud Chaworth - Scotland - France - Hundred Years War - King of England - Edward III of England - Earl of Derby - Earl of Lancaster - Earl of Leicester - Earl of Lincoln - Duke of Lancaster - Knight of the Garter - Lord High Steward

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In 1354 he wrote the Livre de Seyntz Medicines. This was a work written in the form of a prayer in which Henry confesses to his sins, explains various real and mythical medical remedies in terms of their theological symbolism, and exhorts the reader to greater morality. It is organized around seven wounds which Henry claims to have, representing the seven sins. It is notable for its extremely personal character, and as an example of the melding of French and English following the Norman conquest.

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He married Isabel de Beaumont, and they had two children:

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• Maud, Countess of Leicester
• Blanche of Lancaster (married John of Gaunt)