McDougall found learning about Stephen and Matilda fascinating, was sure that her pupils would also and designed an enquiry to engage them in "the anarchy" of 1139-1153 AD. Pupils enjoyed exploring "the anarchy" and learning about it enhanced their knowledge and understanding of the medieval period considerably. However, McDougall argues, story was not enough and pupils needed a coherent conceptual problem to focus their learning. McDougall reflects on how to enhance future learning about "the anarchy" through evidential enquiry. (Contains 4 figures.)