The Order of the Golden Fleece: form, function, and evolution, 1430-1555
Jones, Griffin Girrard
Jones, Griffin Girrard
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1988
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Abstract
It is the purpose of this study to examine and evaluate the role of a particular order of chivalry from the late fourteenth through the early sixteenth century--the Burgundian Order of the Golden Fleece. It became the most prestigious and influential among several knightly orders that appeared in this era. These orders were creations of the new monarchies as devices for integrating the nobility of diverse provinces into the new States by means of chivalrous symbols and social forms. The Order of the Golden Fleece set the standard for courtly society throughout Europe, and since information about its early years is more complete than for any other order, its significance can be assessed more accurately. The Golden Fleece was a characteristic institution of Western Christian aristocracy that was given a broad application as it evolved into a potent socio-cultural and political organization. The account begins with an assessment of chivalric ideals and institutions in the later Middle Ages. Chapter 2 describes the foundation of the Order of the Golden Fleece and includes a summary of its rules. The implementation of the Order's function in the courts of the Valois dukes of Burgundy--Philip the Good and Charles the Bold--is the subject of the third chapter. Chapter 4 examines the transition of the Burgundian Order into an Austrian-Hapsburg context under Maximilian I and Philip the Fair. Chapter 5 discusses the expansion of the Order into an organization of international significance as Charles V employed it in his efforts to reestablish a universal Christian Empire under his aegis as Holy Roman Emperor. During his reign the Order of the Golden Fleece reached its apex as it became one of the most exalted political organizations in western Europe. While the importance of the Order declined rapidly after Charles' abdication in 1555, its contribution to the forging of the modern era cannot be ignored.
Contents
Subject
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Order of the Golden Fleece
Chivalry
Chivalry
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Dissertation
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167 leaves, bound
Department
History