0 5 Explain what was important about the role of the English Parliament in the reign of Edward I.
Level
GCSE
Year Examined
2021
Topic
Medieval England: the reign of Edward I, 1272–1307
👑Complete Model Essay
0 5 Explain what was important about the role of the English Parliament in the reign of Edward I.
Explain what was important about the role of the English Parliament in the reign of Edward I (1272-1307).
Introduction
Before the reign of Edward I, the English Parliament had its roots in the King's councils of advisors. These assemblies, comprised of nobles and high-ranking clergymen, offered advice to the monarch but held little real power. Edward I, a ruler of immense ambition and energy, recognized the potential of this body for consolidating his authority and achieving his goals. While he undoubtedly used Parliament as a tool for his own ends, particularly in matters of finance and law, his reign nonetheless marked a crucial turning point. Edward’s actions, perhaps unintentionally, laid the groundwork for the future importance of Parliament in English political life.
Body Paragraph 1: Parliament as a Tool for Royal Finance
Edward I's reign was marked by costly military campaigns in Wales, Scotland, and France, as well as ambitious building programs. These endeavors required a level of funding that could not be met solely through traditional sources of royal income. To finance his ambitions, Edward turned to Parliament as a means of securing additional taxation. He understood that obtaining consent for new taxes, however grudgingly given, was crucial for maintaining stability and avoiding rebellion. Edward therefore summoned Parliament frequently, using these gatherings as platforms to negotiate with representatives of the different estates – the clergy, nobility, and commoners – to secure the funds he needed. This engagement with Parliament, though driven by necessity, reinforced the idea that the King required the consent of the realm for extraordinary financial demands. It was a significant step, even if manipulated by the king, towards a more balanced relationship between ruler and ruled.
Body Paragraph 2: Parliament's Role in Legal Development
Beyond its financial role, Parliament under Edward I played a key role in shaping English law. Edward was a dedicated reformer of the legal system, aiming to create a more unified and efficient structure of justice throughout his realm. Key to this vision was involving Parliament in the passing of important legislation. Statutes like the Statute of Westminster and the Statute of Gloucester, produced under Edward, standardized legal procedures and addressed specific issues related to land ownership and legal processes. This period also saw the solidifying of "common law," a system of law based on judicial precedents and customs rather than solely on royal decree. While Edward himself was a driving force behind these reforms, the involvement of Parliament gave them added weight and legitimacy. The legislation passed under Edward had a lasting impact on the lives of ordinary people and further established the principle that significant legal changes required the participation of a broader body beyond the King.
Body Paragraph 3: Parliament and the Legacy of Magna Carta
Looming large over Edward's reign was the legacy of Magna Carta, the charter of liberties signed by King John in 1215. Magna Carta represented a crucial moment in asserting the rights of the barons and limiting royal power, principles which resonated even a century later. Edward I, while a strong and determined king, recognized the need to work within the framework of established law. He confirmed Magna Carta on several occasions, demonstrating a degree of respect for its principles. However, he also sought to reinterpret or bypass certain clauses that he saw as limiting his authority. Despite these attempts, Parliament, by being more actively involved in governance, began to embody, even if indirectly, some of the ideals of Magna Carta. Its growing influence, particularly in matters of law and taxation, could be seen as a legacy of the charter's push towards a less absolute monarchy.
Conclusion
Edward I utilized the English Parliament as a tool to achieve his ambitious goals, particularly in financing wars and implementing legal reforms. However, his reign had consequences beyond his immediate aims. By frequently summoning Parliament, seeking its consent for taxation, and involving it in legal changes, Edward inadvertently set significant precedents. He reinforced the notion that even a powerful king should consult with and seek support from representatives of his realm. While far from the fully developed Parliament of later centuries, the institution under Edward I took crucial steps towards becoming a central pillar of English governance. His reign, therefore, holds a significant place in the long journey towards a more balanced and representative system of government in England.
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Explain what was important about the role of the English Parliament in the reign of Edward I (1272-1307).
Introduction
Briefly outline the origins of Parliament prior to Edward I, mentioning its advisory role and representation of different social groups. Then, state your argument: that Edward I, while using Parliament for his own ends, nonetheless oversaw a significant transformation in its role, laying the groundwork for its future importance.
Body Paragraph 1: Parliament as a Tool for Royal Finance
Explain Edward's need for increased taxation to fund his wars and ambitious building projects. Detail how he utilized Parliament to secure these funds. Mention the importance of consent and representation in this process, even if manipulated by the king. Examples: frequent summoning of Parliament, negotiation with different groups within it.
Body Paragraph 2: Parliament's Role in Legal Development
Discuss Edward's reforms to the English legal system. Highlight how Parliament was involved in passing legislation related to these reforms. Explain the concept of "common law" and its significance. Important examples: Statute of Westminster, Statute of Gloucester. Analyze the impact of these legal changes on ordinary people and the relationship between the Crown and its subjects.
Body Paragraph 3: Parliament and the Legacy of Magna Carta
Explain the significance of Magna Carta (1215) and its principles of limiting royal power and protecting individual rights. Analyze how Edward I both upheld and challenged aspects of Magna Carta during his reign. Discuss how Parliament, through its growing influence, began to embody some of the ideals of Magna Carta, even if indirectly. This helps connect Edward's reign to the broader historical development of limited monarchy.
Conclusion
Summarize the key points discussed: Parliament as a tool for finance, its involvement in legal changes, and its connection to the legacy of Magna Carta. Reiterate your argument: Edward I's reign, while driven by his own objectives, was a pivotal period for Parliament. He set precedents for its use that future monarchs would have to contend with, ultimately contributing to its development as a central institution in English governance.
Extracts from Mark Schemes
The English Parliament
The English Parliament, established in the 13th century, was the first parliament in the modern sense of the word. It was a body of representatives from the various social and economic groups in English society.
In the reign of Edward I, Parliament became increasingly important as a forum for political debate and decision making. It became the main means by which the king raised taxes for his wars and other projects. Parliament became a key force in developing the English legal system.
Edward I made changes to the legal system, which was based on common law, and the law was applied equally to all, whether rich or poor. This made a huge difference to the lives of ordinary people.
The importance of the English Parliament was reinforced by the development of the idea of Magna Carta. It outlined a set of rules which restricted the power of the king and protected the rights of the English people. It made England the first country in the world to move away from the idea of an absolute monarch. It laid the foundations for the development of democracy in England and beyond.