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Historians usually agree on the scarcity of political theory in England after the publication of the Policraticus (1159) of John of Salisbury, especially when compared to the rich administrative documentation and the innovations of the reformers during the crises of 1215, 1258-1265 and 1297. The study of the work of a number of hitherto neglected authors may help to put into question this vision of things, or at least give some idea of the wide parameters between which political reflection did develop. Thomas Docking, an Oxford Franciscan who may have been close to the baronial movement in the midthirteenth century, William of Pagula and Roger of Waltham – both of whom wrote in the troubled context of the end of Edward II’s reign and the early years of that of his son – are the three authors whose work is studied here. If issues concerning counsel and limitation of power do not appear first and foremost in their reflection, still they all have at heart to promote a form of power marked by measure and the respect of subjects. This power is precarious, however, and its survival lies on the links of affection that the king may establish with his subjects.
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