Elias II, Count of Maine facts for kids

Elias II (also known as Helias or Élie) was a son of Fulk V of Anjou. Fulk was a powerful ruler who became King of Jerusalem. Elias's mother was Eremburga. She was the daughter of Count Elias I of Maine.

Elias II was born around 1114. By 1129, he married Philippa. She was the daughter of Count Rotrou III of Perche.

Who Was Elias II?

Elias II was part of a very important family. His father, Fulk V, was a count in France. He later became a king in the Middle East. Elias's older brother was Geoffrey Plantagenet. Geoffrey became the ruler of several regions. These included Anjou, Maine, and Touraine.

There is some discussion among historians. They debate if Elias II ever truly became the Count of Maine. Or if he only tried to claim that title.

The Conflict with His Brother

In 1145, Elias II started a conflict. He rebelled against his older brother, Geoffrey. Lord Robert III of Sablé supported Elias in this fight. This conflict is sometimes called the "war of the barons." It was a struggle between powerful nobles.

The war might have continued into 1146. But in the end, Elias was captured. His brother Geoffrey put him in prison. Historical records say Elias wanted to be the Count of Maine. He challenged his brother for this position.

Imprisonment and Death

All historical accounts agree on one thing. Elias was imprisoned in Tours. He died because of his time in prison.

One historian, John of Marmoutier, wrote about it. He said Geoffrey eventually released Elias. But Elias had caught a fever while in prison. He died just a few days after being freed.

The records from the priory of L'Évière state his death was in 1151. The priory of Fontaines recorded the exact date. Elias II died on January 15, 1151.

Elias's Family

Elias II and his wife Philippa had a daughter. Her name was Beatrix. She married John I of Alençon. Through Beatrix, Elias became an ancestor. His family line continued through the later counts and dukes of Alençon.