Henry the Second (ePub)

Alice Stopford Green (1847-1929) was an eminent Irish historian and prolific writer who contributed significantly to the historical literature of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born Alice Sophia Amelia Stopford in County Meath, Ireland, she moved to London after marrying the British historian John Richard Green. Her intellectual milieu extensively included influential historians and writers of her time, which greatly shaped her literary development. Following her husband's death, Green became more politically active and developed a stronger interest in Irish history and nationalism, which infused her writing and public life. Notable among her works is 'Henry the Second,' an insightful examination of the medieval English king, Henry II, and his historical impact. Green's narrative style blends rigorous scholarship with accessible prose, enabling her to reach a broad audience. She employed an approach that was meticulous in its use of primary sources, striving to illuminate the nuanced and often underappreciated aspects of her subjects. Green's body of work reflects her commitment to historical accuracy and her inclination to draw contemporary relevance from the lessons of history. Later in her career, she committed herself to the cause of Irish independence, her scholarly pursuits dovetailing with her political activism, which further empowered her literary voice within the context of Irish nationalistic historiography.