In 1117, King Henry I of England was firmly established on the throne, having ascended in 1100. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate power and reform the administration of justice, which had significant implications for the governance of England. Henry's policies and the stability of his rule contributed to the cultural and political landscape of medieval England, influencing various aspects of life, including literature.

King Henry I's reign provided a backdrop for the flourishing of English literature, as the stability he brought allowed for the growth of vernacular poetry and prose. The period saw the emergence of works that reflected the complexities of court life and governance, influencing poets like Geoffrey Chaucer, who would later draw on the themes of kingship and authority in his writing, shaping the trajectory of English literature.