This book, based on previously unexplored manuscript material, explains the role played by astrology in late medieval England. Having discovered horoscopes relating to English monarchs from Edward II to Edward V, Hilary Carey shows how astrology fought hard in this period to retain some kind of academic respectability, while in the end becoming overwhelmed by the dangerous politics of the late medieval court.

In its glory, astrology shared in and contributed to the brightness of the magnificent courts of Charles V of France, Richard II of England and the Lancastrian usurpers who followed him. By the mid-fifteenth century, however, it had become a risky occupation which nevertheless dramatically increased in demand and influence, first at court and ultimately at all levels of society.