Henry II was crowned king of England in 1154, marking the beginning of the Plantagenet dynasty. His ascension followed a period of civil war, and he implemented reforms that restored order and strengthened royal authority. Henry's reign laid the foundation for the development of the English legal system and centralized governance, significantly influencing the political landscape of medieval England and setting the stage for future conflicts and developments.

The coronation of Henry II in 1154 and the start of Plantagenet rule fostered a rich literary culture, influencing poets like Chrétien de Troyes. His works contributed to the development of Arthurian legends and courtly literature, shaping the narrative traditions of medieval England.