The Myth of Retrospection: Syon Abbey and the Futurity of Lancastrian Legitimation

This article argues that the foundation of Syon Abbey by Henry V was a Lancastrian investment in political prophecy and the Revelations of Saint Bridget of Sweden, rather than—as has been generally argued—a space of retrospectival legitimation. It argues, furthermore, that the political and religious claims charted by Syon’s foundation are simultaneously insular and international, invested in French land claims as well as in civil politics.