Courting Disaster: Astrology at the English Court and University in the Later Middle Ages

by Hilary M. Carey

This book, based on previously unexplored manuscript material, explains the role played by astrology in late medieval England. Having discovered horoscopes relating to English monarchs from Edward II to Edward V, Hilary Carey shows how astrology fought hard in this period to retain some kind of academic respectability, while in the end becoming overwhelmed by the dangerous politics of the late medieval court. In its glory, astrology shared in and contributed to the brightness of the magnificent courts of Charles V of France, Richard II of England and the Lancastrian usurpers who followed him. By the mid-fifteenth century, however, it had become a risky occupation which nevertheless dramatically increased in demand and influence, first at court and ultimately at all levels of society.

282 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 1992

About the author

Professor Hilary M. Carey

Reviews

[Greg R · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those rare books where you can genuinely feel the weight of the research behind every page. The amount of archival work that went into this is monumental.

But the book isnt flawless. At times, the language becomes more complicated than it needs to be. There are passages where clearer, simpler prose would have allowed the ideas to shine more directly. So this could have been an absolutely brilliant book rather than a very good one.

What truly sets it apart, however, is its richness. This is not just a study of astrology at the English court, but a layered exploration of the human psyche.

Astrology emerges here as many things at once: a political tool, a source of anxiety, a perceived threat, and in some cases something that people tried to use as a weapon.

Some of the details are so fascinating. The discussions of handwritten horoscopes and the attempts to identify who may have cast them purely from handwriting and context, are quietly thrilling and bring you very close to the individuals behind the charts.

Eh, this is a demanding but rewarding read.

If you’re interested in astrology as something historically complex and uncomfortably close to power this “hidden gem” is well worth the effort.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative, if a little dry and too specialist at times. Excellent resource, especially interesting re: the trial of Eleanor Cobham.