Princely Power in Late Medieval France: Jeanne de Penthievre and the War for Brittany

Jeanne de Penthièvre, Duchess of Brittany, actively ruled during the Hundred Years' War, navigating multiple standards of princely action and collaborating with her husband to maintain her claim to the duchy. This study challenges traditional models of medieval political authority and highlights the importance of women's rulership in the power structures of the early 14th century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Jeanne de Penthièvre, the Duchess of Brittany, was a formidable and resolute ruler who steadfastly upheld her claim to the duchy amidst a fierce struggle for succession. Even after her eventual defeat, she remained determined to retain her rightful place. In this comprehensive examination, we delve into Jeanne's administrative and legal records to explore her collaborative rule with her husband, the social implications of ducal authority, and her strategies for legitimization in the face of conflict.

While traditional studies of medieval political authority often emphasize royal, male, and exclusive models of power, Erika Graham-Goering unveils a nuanced perspective that reveals the existence of multiple coexisting standards of princely behavior. It is the ability to navigate these expectations that holds greater significance in the effective exercise of power, rather than rigid adherence to any single approach. This perspective transcends hierarchical categories, gender boundaries, and collaborative rule, shedding light on women's rulership as a vital component in the power structures of the early Hundred Years' War. It demonstrates that lordship retained its political relevance even in a period of increasing monarchical authority.

Jeanne de Penthièvre's life and reign provide a captivating glimpse into the complex dynamics of medieval politics. Her determination, resilience, and strategic alliances played a significant role in shaping the course of history during a period of immense upheaval. Through her administrative and legal records, we gain a deeper understanding of her role as a ruler, her interactions with her contemporaries, and the enduring impact she had on the political landscape of her time.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 152 x 230 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108733434