The life and times of George Villiers, duke of Buckingham, Volume 3 (of 3) / From original and authentic sources

The third volume traces the duke's contentious later career, chronicling his elevation to academic and political honors amid parliamentary anger, his disputed conduct in foreign and naval operations including expeditions to Rochelle and Rhé, and the logistical and moral challenges those campaigns posed. It recounts the growing unpopularity that culminates in his assassination, examines debates about motives and culpability, and assesses personal qualities and patronage. The volume also surveys his support for the arts, his collection of paintings, and his impact on contemporary drama through relationships with leading playwrights, concluding with reflections on his character and the fates of his possessions.