This book provides a systematic analysis of the innovations that occurred in the display of royal power during John II’s four years in English captivity. Neil Murphy shows how the French king’s competition with Edward III led to a revolution in the presentation of the royal image, manifesting through developments to the sacral character of the French monarchy, lavish displays of gift giving, and the use of courtly display. Showing that the Hundred Years War was not just fought on the battlefields of France, this book unravels how the war played out daily in the competition for status between Edward III and John II.
Neil Murphy is Senior Lecturer in History at Northumbria University, UK.
This book provides a systematic analysis of the innovations that occurred in the display of royal power during John II’s four years in English captivity. Neil Murphy shows how the French king’s competition with Edward III led to a revolution in the presentation of the royal image, manifesting through developments to the sacral character of the French monarchy, lavish displays of gift giving, and the use of courtly display. Showing that the Hundred Years War was not just fought on the battlefields of France, this book unravels how the war played out daily in the competition for status between Edward III and John II.
Provides new perspectives on medieval royal courts and expressions of ceremony and power
Draws new and compelling connections between the Hundred Years War and John the Good's reign.
Neil Murphy
French Royalty John II John the Good Medieval England Royal courts ceremony
“Murphy’s book is a valuable addition to our understanding of the royal image in later-medieval England and France. … Murphy offers a more rounded picture of John's achievements, which will undoubtedly reshape how this important phase in the history of the Valois monarchy is understood for some time to come.” (Matthew Hefferan, sehepunkte.de, Vol. 17 (12), 2017)