Chroniques De J. Froissart, Tome 8.2: 1370-1377 (depuis Le Combat De Pontvallain Jusqu'à La Prise D'ardres Et D'audruicq)
1869
Chroniques De J. Froissart, Tome 8.2: 1370-1377 (depuis Le Combat De Pontvallain Jusqu'à La Prise D'ardres Et D'audruicq)
1869
A historical account written in the late 14th century. This volume continues the chronicles of Froissart, focusing on the events between the years 1370 to 1377, covering significant battles and political developments during the Hundred Years' War. The text includes original writings, along with variations from different manuscripts, delving into military campaigns and the lives of notable figures within the context of medieval warfare. The opening of the work provides a fascinating glimpse into the battles and political maneuvers of the period. It begins with a discussion of military operations led by various French knights, highlighting the strategies and conflicts encountered during their campaigns against English forces. Characters such as Sir Bertrand and Sir Robert Canolles are introduced, who navigate the treacherous landscape of political loyalty and warfare. The details of engagements and the aftermath of battles are vividly portrayed, setting a gripping tone that signals a deep exploration of the strife and valor characteristic of medieval chronicles.
About Chroniques De J. Froissart, Tome 8.2: 1370-1377 (depuis Le Combat De Pontvallain Jusqu'à La Prise D'ardres Et D'audruicq)
Chapter Summaries
- 98
- Newly appointed Constable Bertrand du Guesclin campaigns against Robert Knolles' English forces. Despite internal discord among the English, du Guesclin defeats them decisively at Pontvallain, capturing many knights including Thomas Grandison.
- 99
- Edward III plans new campaigns while sending the Earl of Pembroke to Poitou. Spanish naval forces intercept and defeat the English fleet off La Rochelle, capturing Pembroke and Guichard d'Angle in a decisive naval engagement.
Key Themes
- Loyalty and Betrayal
- The chronicle explores shifting allegiances as lords switch between English and French sides based on political advantage, personal safety, or changing circumstances of war.
- Military Honor and Chivalry
- Knights and nobles demonstrate codes of honor in warfare, showing courtesy to prisoners and respect for worthy opponents, even while engaging in brutal conflicts.
- Strategic Warfare
- The text details complex military strategies including sieges, naval battles, and coordinated campaigns, showing the evolution of medieval warfare tactics.
Characters
- Bertrand du Guesclin(protagonist)
- Constable of France, newly appointed to his office. A skilled military commander who leads French forces against the English in various campaigns.
- Robert Knolles(major)
- English captain leading raids in France. Commands a significant force but faces internal discord among his men.
- John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster(major)
- Son of Edward III, becomes Duke of Aquitaine. Marries Constance of Castile to claim the throne of Castile.
- Edward, the Black Prince(major)
- Prince of Wales and Aquitaine, suffering from illness. Returns to England for his health, leaving his brother John of Gaunt in charge.
- Captal de Buch(major)
- Gascon nobleman and renowned knight serving the English cause. Eventually captured by the French at Soubise.
- Owen of Wales(major)
- Welsh prince serving France, seeking to reclaim his inheritance from the English. Commands naval forces and captures the Captal de Buch.
