The Illusion of the Burgundian State

Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, expressed his desire to become a king in 1474, but was killed at the Battle of Nancy three years later. This book explores Burgundian history and historiography, offering a synthesis of the nature of politics in the region. It challenges existing ideas about the Burgundian state and raises important issues about the medieval state, the nation under the 'Ancien Regime, the role of warfare in the creation of political power, and the impact of political loyalties in the exercise of government.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

On January 25, 1474, Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, appeared before his subjects in Dijon. Dressed in silk, gold, and precious jewels, he wore a headpiece that gave the illusion of a crown. In a speech, he cryptically expressed his desire to become a king. Three years later, Charles was killed at the Battle of Nancy, plunging the Great Principality of Burgundy into chaos. This book, innovative and essential, not only explores Burgundian history and historiography but offers a comprehensive synthesis about the nature of politics in this region, considered both from the north and the south. Focusing on political ideologies, a number of important issues are raised relating to the medieval state, the significance of the nation under the 'Ancien Regime, the role of warfare in the creation of political power, and the impact of political loyalties in the exercise of government. In doing so, the book challenges a number of existing ideas about the Burgundian state.

Dimension: 216 x 138 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526174550