Did Edward Longshanks Ever Marry Isabella of France in Braveheart?

The movie Braveheart, starring Mel Gibson, is renowned for its historical inaccuracies but one common misconception it perpetuates is the marriage between Edward Longshanks, also known as Edward I, and Isabella of France. This narrative delves into the historical realities behind this myth and corrects the record of Edward I's personal life and the turbulent events leading to the downfall of his reign.

The Historical Context

Edward Longshanks, titled Edward I, was the King of England from 1272 to 1307. He never married the titular character of Braveheart, Isabella of France. Instead, Isabella of France married his son, Edward II, in 1308, when she was just 12 years old. This union was a strategic alliance intended to solidify England's position in Europe.

It's important to note that Isabella of France never met William Wallace, the galvanizing figure of the movie, nor did she forge a romantic relationship with him. These fictional elements are creations of Hollywood, designed to enhance the film's narrative and thematic depth.

A Further Look at the Marriage

On the night of their wedding, Edward I's attention was not on his bride-to-be but rather on his male favorite, Pierre Gavaston. This revelation provides an interesting contrast to the romanticized and historically inaccurate portrayal in the film. The French attendees were thoroughly disgusted by such a display of affection and promptly left in outrage. This event marked the beginning of a difficult relationship between Edward I and his son, Edward II, who would later ascend to the throne after his death.

Over the years, Edward I's personal life became increasingly tumultuous, particularly after the murder of his male favorite, Pierre Gavaston. As a result, influential figures like the Dispensers, the Welsh father and son, became Edward I's closest confidants and favorites. This period was marked by political and personal intrigue, further dividing the king from his intended wife, Isabella of France.

The Downfall of Edward I

Isabella of France, driven by a desire for power and revenge, eventually left her husband and sought refuge in France. With the assistance of her brother and the renegade knight, Roger Mortimer, she organized a military force to invade England. The Barons, disillusioned with Edward I's rule, rallied around Isabella. As a result, she was able to overthrow her husband. Edward II was imprisoned and died under mysterious circumstances, while the Dispensers faced severe retribution. Hugh Dispenser was captured, publicly castrated, hanged, drawn, and quartered, and Isabella, known as 'The She-Wolf of France,' watched from the front row of this gruesome spectacle, enjoying a meal while overseeing his execution.

These events highlight the dramatic and violent nature of 13th century English politics and offer a stark contrast to the romanticized depiction of Isabella and her husband in the movie Braveheart. The film's portrayal of Isabella's historical actions, including her role in the assassination of William Wallace and her marriage to Edward I, are exaggerated and fictionalized for dramatic effect.