Renaissance Monarchy: The Reigns of Henry VIII, Francis I and Charles V

by Glenn Richardson

What determined success or failure in Renaissance monarchy? Why was warfare endemic in Europe in the early sixteenth century and how did the great cultural and artistic changes of the period flourish amid this conflict? How did rival kings relate to each other and what steps did they each take to strengthen their monarchies? In short, how did they govern? Renaissance Monarchy approaches these and related issues in a revealing way, providing the first single-volume comparative history of the most renowned kings of the the Holy Roman Empire Charles V, Francis I of France and Henry VIII of England. Bringing these three kings together, out of the relative isolation in which they are each studied, adds a fresh dimension to our understanding of contemporary ideals of kingship and reveals how these monarchs strove to be regarded as great warriors, effective governors and generous patrons.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Germany, France, Tudor Period

264 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2002

Reviews

[Dominique Lamssies · Rating 3 out of 5]

So, just to be clear, this is a textbook. And a high level textbook at that. You have to have a pretty good working knowledge of the history of the era to really get the full effect of this book (I'm an arm chair Tudor enthusiast, and only know a little about Francis I and almost nothing about Charles V, so there were parts where I was almost lost - Spanish history is really complicated, by the way).

This book is full of good information though and really helps you understand the overall culture that made these kings think the way they thought and do what they did. It does skew pretty heavily toward Henry VIII, his sections tend to be longer and more detailed then the others in each topic.

Good if you have an intense interest in the history of the era (as opposed to the personalities).

[Victoria · Rating 3 out of 5]

Synthetic work about the monarchies of Henry VIII, Francis I and Charles V. Discusses personal ambitions of these rulers as individuals, putting a human face back on international politics in the early modern period. Argues that 'Renaissance monarchy' was characterized by the drive to be great, to achieve the highest personal virtus through warfare, governance, and patronage networks. Argues, however, that none truly achieve their ambitions to the extent they may have desired. Dismisses the idea that these kings were successfully absolutist, but that their rules succeeded only through negotiation with the ruled.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

masculinity essay on the kings