Marriage of George Duke of Clarence and Isabel Neville
In Calais, on 11 July 1469, the marriage of George Duke of Clarence to Isabel Neville took place. George Duke of Clarence was the younger brother of King Edward IV. Isabel Neville was a daughter of the Richard, Earl of Warwick. Their marriage was controversial.
At the time, marital laws required dispensation to be granted for marriages where the couple were related within the fourth degree. George and Isabel were related within the fourth degree. And, with the high status of both, they required Papal dispensation. This was not uncommon, many diplomatic marriages or unions of two baronial families required this dispensation, and it was usually granted.
The matter was complicated by the fact that they also needed royal approval because of their rank. King Edward opposed the marriage. This posed a problem, especially as the couple gained Papal Dispensation in March 1469.
Relations between the King and his brother were already strained, and the marriage issue only worsened them. George, however, was determined to press ahead. He and Isabel travelled to Calais, where they were married in a ceremony presided over by Isabel’s uncle, the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Accounts of the service itself vary significantly, with one contemporary saying it was extravagant, another saying few attended. The date itself is not definite; most reports saying the 11th though some suggest the 12th.
The marriage was not the only event of note to take place in this week. The very next day the Duke of Clarence and Earl of Warwick issued a proclamation in the form of a letter denouncing the King’s advisors. It was a prelude to the disgruntled Duke and Earl sailing to England and their supporters engaging those of King Edward IV at Edgcote.
Read more about the marriage and married life of George and Isabel on nevillfeast.