In "The Courts of Love: The Story of Eleanor of Aquitaine" by Jean Plaidy, the final words of Henry Plantagenet express the profound shame and sorrow of a defeated king. His lament reflects the deep emotional burden of his loss, revealing the weight of his royal responsibilities and personal failures. This moment captures the essence of his character and the turmoil he faced during his reign.

Henry's tragic sentiment illustrates the complexities of power and the vulnerability that can accompany leadership. As a king, his aspirations were grand, yet ultimately, he found himself vanquished and filled with regret. This poignant declaration serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of power and the inevitable human emotions tied to success and failure.