Black Prince and King Jean II of France: Generalship in the Hundred Years War

During the Hundred Years War, a military commander needed strategic vision, tactical skill, and leadership qualities to succeed. The Black Prince, Edward, was a charismatic leader who defeated the French King Jean II at the Battle of Poitiers. Hoskins analyzes their strengths and weaknesses based on military principles and provides insight into the nature of command and war in the Middle Ages.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 208 pages
\n Publication date: 03 November 2020
\n Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd
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The Hundred Years War was a pivotal period in European history marked by intense warfare and strategic maneuvering. As military commanders emerged as key figures in the conflict, they were tasked with leading their armies to victory against formidable opponents. In this essay, we will explore the essential qualities that a military commander during the Hundred Years War needed to possess.

Strategic Vision: A military commander during the Hundred Years War required a clear and concise strategic vision. They needed to understand the broader objectives of the war and develop a plan to achieve them. This involved analyzing the terrain, assessing the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents, and identifying potential opportunities for victory.

Tactical Skill: Tactics played a crucial role in medieval warfare, and a military commander needed to be skilled in both offensive and defensive strategies. They needed to be able to adapt their tactics based on the situation on the battlefield and make quick decisions under pressure.

Leadership: Leadership was perhaps the most important quality of a military commander during the Hundred Years War. They needed to inspire their troops and maintain their morale, even in the face of adversity. This involved setting a good example, communicating effectively, and demonstrating a strong sense of discipline and determination.

Powers of Leadership: A military commander during the Hundred Years War also needed to possess the powers of leadership to influence their opponents and gain the upper hand on the battlefield. This involved using diplomacy, negotiation, and intimidation to achieve their objectives.

Military Tradition: The military tradition of the time also played a significant role in the success of a military commander. They needed to be familiar with the tactics, strategies, and weapons of their era and be able to adapt them to the changing circumstances of the war.

Edward, the Black Prince, and King Jean II: The Hundred Years War saw the rise of two prominent military commanders: Edward, the Black Prince, and King Jean II. Edward was one of the most admired generals of his generation, known for his charismatic leadership, shrewd tactics, and strategic vision. He led the English army to victory at the Battle of Poitiers, defeating King Jean II and securing England's position in the war.

In contrast, King Jean II was impulsive, driven more by pride, his sense of honor, and personal objectives than strategic priorities. When he was put to the ultimate test at Poitiers, he lost control of his army, while the Black Prince took the initiative personally to secure victory against the odds.

Peter Hoskins' Study: In his book, "The Black Prince: The Life and Legend of Edward III," Peter Hoskins explores the careers of Edward, the Black Prince, and King Jean II. He examines their contrasting characters and backgrounds, as well as the military tradition of their time. The primary focus of the book is a close comparison of their strengths and weaknesses as soldiers, as revealed on campaign and on the battlefield.

Hoskins analyzes the leadership qualities of the prince and the king according to the principles of war enunciated by Sun Tzu and Vegetius, as well as the modern principles of war of the United Kingdom armed forces. He gives readers a fascinating insight into the nature of command and the conduct of war in the Middle Ages.

Conclusion: The Hundred Years War was a period of intense warfare and strategic maneuvering, and military commanders played a crucial role in determining the outcome of the conflict. A military commander during this time needed to possess a clear and concise strategic vision, tactical skill, leadership, powers of leadership, and familiarity with the military tradition of their era. Edward, the Black Prince, and King Jean II were two prominent military commanders who demonstrated these qualities and played a significant role in the history of the Hundred Years War.

\n Weight: 500g\n
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781526749871\n \n