Plot: Set during Christmas 1183 at Henry II of England's château in Chinon, Anjou, Angevin Empire, the play opens with the arrival of Henry's wife, Eleanor of Aquitaine, whom he has had imprisoned since 1173. The story concerns the gamesmanship among Henry, Eleanor, their sons Richard, Geoffrey, and John, their guest, Philip II of France (the son of Eleanor's ex-husband, Louis VII of France), and Philip's half-sister, Alais, who has been at court since she was betrothed to Richard at age 8, but has since become Henry's mistress.
Henry II, King of England | 50. Strong, active, concerned about which of his sons will succeed him. Energetic and clever. |
Eleanor of Acquitaine, Henry's wife | Mature, beautiful, mother of Henry's sons and his equal in royal intrigue. Also clever and blunt. |
Richard Lionheart, the oldest son | 26. A great warrior, ambitious, eager to succeed his father. |
Geoffrey, the middle son | 25. Highly intelligent, a plotter, feels he is overlooked. |
John, the youngest son | Late teens, more innocent than his brothers, Henry's favorite. A bit of a spoiled brat. |
Philip, King of France | Youthful, attractive, accustomed to the intrigue surrounding 12th century monarchs. |
Alais, a French princess | 23. Lovely, Henry's mistress and in love with him. Promised to one of Henry's sons. |
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