Home
Membership
Philip Augustus: the Plantagenets’ greatest rival

Philip Augustus: the Plantagenets’ greatest rival

Catherine Hanley reveals the ruthless tactics employed by King Philip Augustus of France: the Plantagenets’ ultimate enemy

Emily Briffett

Published: September 2, 2026 at 3:55 PM

Save

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp
Email to a friend

King Philip Augustus of France was the Plantagenets’ ultimate enemy. A ruler with an iron fist and sharp political instincts, he consistently exploited the squabbles of the English dynasty, all while transforming France into a dominant power in Western Europe.

Speaking to Emily Briffett, historian and author Catherine Hanley reveals the cunning and ruthless tactics he employed against the English kings to become medieval England’s most formidable foe.

Authors

Emily BriffettSenior content producer (podcasts)

Emily Briffett is senior content producer (podcasts) at HistoryExtra