
Chroniques De J. Froissart, Tome 8.1: 1370-1377 (depuis Le Combat De Pontvallain Jusqu'à La Prise D'ardres Et D'audruicq)
1869
A historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume serves as the first part of the eighth tome of Froissart's chronicles, documenting significant events from the years 1370 to 1377 during the Hundred Years' War, particularly focusing on battles, political alliances, and the lives of notable figures such as Bertrand du Guesclin and Jean, Duke of Lancaster. The opening of this work presents an overview and critical commentary, introducing the reader to the historical context and key events that will be explored further in the subsequent sections. It details the combat at Pontvallain and the ensuing actions of French and English nobles during this tumultuous period, alongside the political maneuvers that defined their fates. Notably, figures like Bertrand du Guesclin emerge as pivotal characters, showcasing their strategies and exploits in the war against the English, thus setting the stage for a deeper analysis of their impact on French history.
About Chroniques De J. Froissart, Tome 8.1: 1370-1377 (depuis Le Combat De Pontvallain Jusqu'à La Prise D'ardres Et D'audruicq)
Chapter Summaries
- XCVIII
- Du Guesclin's victory at Pontvallain marks the beginning of French reconquest. The chapter covers the siege of Montpont, English expeditions, and concludes with marriages linking English princes to Castilian princesses.
- XCIX
- Spanish fleet defeats English naval forces off La Rochelle. French forces systematically reconquer Poitou, capturing the captal de Buch and Thomas de Percy at Soubise. Thouars surrenders after Edward III fails to relieve it.
- C
- French forces occupy most of Brittany, forcing Duke Jean de Montfort into English exile. Lancaster and Montfort lead a massive raid across France from Calais to Bordeaux, harassed by French forces but achieving little strategic gain.
Key Themes
- Strategic Patience vs. Aggressive Warfare
- Charles V and du Guesclin employ a strategy of avoiding pitched battles while gradually reconquering territory through sieges and diplomacy, contrasting with traditional chivalric warfare.
- Loyalty and Betrayal
- The chronicle explores various forms of loyalty - to kings, to regions, and to personal honor - as nobles switch sides and territories change hands throughout the conflict.
- The Decline of English Power in France
- The narrative documents the systematic French reconquest of territories, showing how English dominance established at Crécy and Poitiers gradually erodes.
Characters
- Bertrand du Guesclin(protagonist)
- Connétable de France, brilliant military commander who leads French forces to numerous victories. Known for his strategic prowess and loyalty to Charles V.
- Charles V(protagonist)
- King of France, wise ruler who employs strategic patience and diplomacy. Oversees the gradual reconquest of French territories from the English.
- Édouard III(antagonist)
- King of England, aging monarch struggling to maintain English possessions in France. Dies in 1377 after a long reign marked by military campaigns.
- Jean duc de Lancastre(antagonist)
- Son of Edward III, leads major military expeditions in France. Claims the throne of Castile through marriage to Constance.
- Olivier de Clisson(major)
- Breton nobleman and military commander, close companion of du Guesclin. Plays key role in Breton campaigns and sieges.
- Louis duc d'Anjou(major)
- Brother of Charles V, serves as royal lieutenant in southern France. Leads campaigns in Gascony and participates in diplomatic negotiations.















