Histoire De France 1484-1515 (volume 9/19)
Histoire De France 1484-1515 (volume 9/19)
A historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume, part of a larger work, explores the Renaissance period in France, bridging the gap between the Middle Ages and the modern age. It aims to examine the cultural and intellectual changes that marked this transformative era, including a focus on individualism and the resurgence of classical thought. At the start of the volume, the author reflects on the ten years of research that have preceded this work, emphasizing the need to connect the histories of the Middle Ages with those of the Renaissance and the Reformation. Michelet discusses the notion of the Renaissance as not just an artistic revival, but a broader renewal of human thought and understanding. He contrasts the dynamism and creative spirit of this period with the oppressive structures of the preceding medieval era, setting the stage for a detailed analysis of the social, political, and cultural evolution that defines this critical juncture in French history.
About Histoire De France 1484-1515 (volume 9/19)
Chapter Summaries
- Introduction
- Michelet defines the Renaissance as the discovery of the world and of man, arguing that it represents humanity's escape from medieval darkness through individual heroism and will. He criticizes the sterility of scholasticism and the creation of a 'people of fools.'
- 1
- Charles VIII's army enters Rome in 1494, revealing French military superiority through mobile artillery. The invasion was long planned despite opposition from Anne de Beaujeu, who had successfully preserved French unity after Louis XI's death.
- 2
- The French discover Italian civilization and are overwhelmed by its beauty and sophistication. Savonarola prophesies the invasion as God's judgment on Italy's sins, while the French make crucial political errors in Florence and Pise.
Key Themes
- The Renaissance as Moral Awakening
- Michelet presents the Renaissance as humanity's awakening from medieval darkness, symbolized by the discovery of Italy and the revival of classical learning. This awakening brings both enlightenment and moral corruption.
- The Corruption of Power
- The book extensively documents the moral decay of Renaissance leadership, particularly the Borgia papacy, showing how absolute power corrupts absolutely and destroys both rulers and ruled.
- French National Character
- Michelet explores the emergence of distinctly French qualities - generosity, sociability, and military valor - while criticizing French political naivety and susceptibility to foreign manipulation.
Characters
- Charles VIII(protagonist)
- Young King of France (1483-1498) who led the first French invasion of Italy. Weak and credulous but brave in battle, he was dominated by his advisors and died young after abandoning his Italian conquests.
- Louis XII(protagonist)
- King of France (1498-1515), called 'Father of the People.' A good but weak man dominated by his wife Anne de Bretagne and cardinal Georges d'Amboise. Reformed justice but made disastrous alliances.
- Anne de Beaujeu(major)
- Daughter of Louis XI, regent for Charles VIII. Strong-willed and politically astute, she saved France from feudal reaction and secured the kingdom's unity through skillful diplomacy.
- Anne de Bretagne(major)
- Duchess of Brittany, wife successively to Charles VIII and Louis XII. Proud, austere, and devoted to Brittany's independence. Influenced French foreign policy significantly.
- Georges d'Amboise(major)
- Cardinal and chief minister to Louis XII. Ambitious churchman who sought the papacy and made the fatal alliance with César Borgia. Accumulated great wealth while claiming disinterestedness.
- César Borgia(antagonist)
- Son of Pope Alexander VI, Duke of Valentinois. Ruthless and ambitious, he used French support to conquer the Romagna through murder and treachery before falling from power.
