The Death of Robert II and Constance…

The Death of Robert II and Constance of Arles' Conflict with Her Sons (1031)

Following the death of King Robert II on July 20, 1031, Queen Constance of Arles quickly found herself at odds with both of her surviving sons, Henry I and Robert of Burgundy. Rather than accepting Henry’s rightful succession, she seized her dower lands and refused to surrender them, escalating tensions into open conflict.

Constance’s Defiance and Henry’s Flight to Normandy

• Despite Henry I’s coronation at Reims in 1027, Constance continued to oppose his rule, preferring her younger son, Robert of Burgundy, as king.
• Upon Robert II’s death, Constance refused to recognize Henry’s authority, taking control of her dower landsand seeking to rally nobles to her side.
• Facing immediate hostility, Henry was forced to flee the royal domain, seeking refuge in Normandy, where he received support from his younger brother, Robert of Normandy.
• Robert of Normandy provided weapons, soldiers, and strategic aid, helping Henry regroup and launch a counteroffensive against their mother.

Henry’s Siege of Poissy and Constance’s Escape

• With Norman reinforcements, Henry returned to France with an army, determined to assert his authority.
• He besieged Constance at Poissy, a key stronghold where she had entrenched herself with her supporters.
• However, before Henry could capture her, Constance escaped to Pontoise, prolonging the conflict.