The Greatest Dynasty of Medieval France: Interview with Professor Justine Firnhaber-Baker
Jun 6, 2024
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Professor Justine Firnhaber-Baker, expert on medieval France, discusses Capetian dynasty, personal power of kings, challenges of absolutism, and powerful women in politics. The podcast explores medieval vs modern local politics and the importance of historical narrative and character analysis.
Capetian kings ruled with religious and cultural charisma, shaping France's direction and patronage significantly.
Capetian queens like Blanche of Castile wielded political influence, implementing crucial policies and shaping cultural endeavors.
Deep dives
The Capetian Dynasty's 300-Year Rule
The Capetians were a significant royal dynasty in France from 987 to 1328, with historians marking a dynastic break at 1328. Over this period, the Capetians maintained a direct male line rule, expanding their power and transforming France territorially and culturally. Initially concentrated around Paris, their rule saw territorial growth and cultural developments that defined later medieval France.
Capetian Power and Influence
Capetian kings wielded power that was personal and deeply connected to religious and cultural charisma, rather than absolute authority. Kings' personalities and decisions influenced the realm, with wider latitude in shaping directions and patronage matters significantly. While ruling by the grace of God, kings had to work in consensus with barons and the church, balancing authority to ensure justice, protection, and common good.
The Role of Capetian Queens
Capetian queens like Blanche of Castile played pivotal roles in ruling France, acting as regents and implementing crucial policies. Their influence extended to political decisions, legislation, and cultural endeavors like the building of the Sainte-Chapelle. Queens shaped the political landscape alongside kings and other noble figures, showcasing the significant role of women in medieval power dynamics.
Capetians as Part of European Trends
The Capetians were part of broader trends in medieval Europe, leveraging innovations in law, administration, and trade to enhance their power. As a culmination of societal advancements in agriculture, intellectual pursuits, legal systems, and cultural development, the Capetians played a pivotal role in shaping medieval France within the context of broader European transformations.
It's been a while since Tides of History has gone to the Middle Ages, and a wonderful new book - House of Lilies: The Dynasty that Made Medieval France - provides us with the opportunity to return. Professor Justine Firnhaber-Baker is one of the world's leading experts on medieval France, and she joins the show to talk about her new book, the Capetian dynasty, and how medieval politics actually worked.
Patrick's book is now available! Get The Verge: Reformation, Renaissance, and Forty Years that Shook the World in hardcopy, ebook, or audiobook (read by Patrick) here: https://bit.ly/PWverge. And check out Patrick's new podcast The Pursuit of Dadliness! It’s all about “Dad Culture,” and Patrick will interview some fascinating guests about everything from tall wooden ships to smoked meats to comfortable sneakers to history, sports, culture, and politics. https://bit.ly/PWtPoD
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