The French in the Kingdom of Sicily, 1266–1305
Cambridge University Press, 3/3/2011
EAN 9780521198783, ISBN10: 052119878X
Hardcover, 330 pages, 22.8 x 15.2 x 2.2 cm
Language: English
Charles of Anjou's conquest of the Sicilian Regno in 1266 transformed relations between France and the kingdom of Sicily. This original study of contact and exchange in the Middle Ages explores the significance of the many cultural, religious and political exchanges between the two countries, arguing that the links were more diverse and stronger than simply the rulers' family connections. Jean Dunbabin shows how influence flowed as much from south to north as vice versa, and that France was strongly influenced by the experiences of those who returned after years of fighting in the Regno. As well as considering the experiences of notable crusading families, she sheds new light on the career of Robert II d'Artois, who virtually ruled the Regno for six years before returning to France to remodel the government of Artois. This comparative history of two societies offers an important perspective on medieval Western Europe.
Introduction
Part I. Means of Communication
1. Routes and journeys
2. Meetings, embassies and correspondence
3. The movement of money
Part II. Indirect Channels of Communication
4. Lesser means of diffusing Angevin influences
Part III. Settlers in the Regno
5. Robert II d'Artois
6. The Dampierres, the comital family of Flanders
7. Other French aristocratic families
8. Foundations and degrees of French aristocratic commitment to the Angevin regime in the Regno
9. The French experience in the Regno
Part IV. Cultural and Political Impacts
10. Royal ideology
the saintly family
11. Religious politics and practices
12. The universities of Naples and Paris
13. Medicine and science
14. Law
15. Administrative practices
16. Navy and army
17. Literature
Epilogue
spurs to remembering
Conclusion.