• Renaissance

    Binge these short You Tube documentaries about Queen Margot

    If you want to get a better idea of who Margot Valois was, a good place to start is by watching documentaries users have posted on You Tube. The content is always updating, and I’ll make an effort to keep this list current, but ADD and all… Videos in English: Videos in French: **Actually, these are audio based, more like Podcasts**

  • Renaissance

    Four reasons why Margot Valois would have been a perfect monarch for France

    Oh, what might have been! In the annals of history, certain individuals possess qualities that make them exceptional leaders, capable of wielding power with grace and wisdom. Margot Valois, with her remarkable intelligence, diplomatic finesse, resilience in the face of scandals, and adept use of pageantry, stands out as a prime example of a ruler who would have made a perfect monarch. Her multifaceted abilities would have undoubtedly contributed to a prosperous and harmonious reign. Let us delve into the reasons why Margot Valois would have been an exceptional sovereign. Intelligence and Political Acumen: Margot Valois was renowned for her sharp intellect, making her well-equipped to handle the intricacies of…

  • Medici

    Catherine de Medici: a historical anti-heroine

    When we think of historical figures, it’s often the heroes who take the spotlight—the noble warriors, the brilliant thinkers, the charismatic leaders. However, history also has its fair share of anti-heroes—characters who possess qualities that challenge traditional notions of heroism. Catherine de’ Medici, the 16th-century Queen consort of France, stands as a prime example of a historical anti-heroine. Her life and political career are rife with controversy, manipulation, and a relentless pursuit of power. In this article, we will delve into Catherine’s story and compare her to well-known anti-heroes from literature, showcasing why she epitomizes this intriguing archetype. To truly understand Catherine de’ Medici, we must first examine the context…

  • Guise,  History,  Renaissance

    The governors of Renaissance France: networks of power and obstacles to royal

    By the time the Sixteenth Century dawned, the governors of the dozen or so regions of France had developed from an administrative necessity to an obstacle to Valois power. After coalescing from several feudal states, the French monarchy tried to instill some kind of control over the regions of the new country. The noble class, however, had long assumed that governing the provinces would be an inherited duty passed down from father to son, and a reliable way to create networks for the men and women who served under the major aristocrats of France. With the Hapsburgs controlling the land to the East and to the West and the English…

  • Renaissance

    Places of the French Renaissance: Chateau de Chenonceau

    Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Loire Valley in France, the Chateau de Chenonceau stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural brilliance of the Renaissance era. Revered as one of the most beautiful chateaux in the world, this enchanting masterpiece has captivated visitors for centuries with its unique blend of grandeur, natural beauty, and captivating stories. Let us embark on a journey through time and explore the wonders that await within the walls of the Chateau de Chenonceau. A Historical Tapestry: Dating back to the 16th century, the Chateau de Chenonceau bears witness to the remarkable women who shaped its history. Often referred to as the…

  • Renaissance

    The legacy of the Guise dynasty

    In the annals of history, certain families stand out for their extraordinary achievements and lasting impact on society. The Guise family is one such notable lineage that has left an indelible mark on various domains, from politics and culture to philanthropy and entrepreneurship. For centuries, the Guise family has been synonymous with resilience, ambition, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. This post delves into the captivating story of the Guise family and their remarkable legacy. A Storied Past: A Storied Past: The Guise family’s illustrious lineage can be traced back to medieval France, where they emerged as prominent figures during the Renaissance. Their ascent to power began with François de…

  • Renaissance

    An overview of Catherine de Medici’s role in The St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre of 1572

    The St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre of 1572 stands as one of the darkest and most tragic chapters in French history. This event, characterized by the targeted killing of thousands of Huguenots (French Protestants), has long been associated with the name of Catherine de Medici, the queen mother and regent of France. While Catherine’s involvement in the massacre has been widely debated among historians, her role in the events leading up to that fateful day remains a subject of controversy. In the 16th century, France was embroiled in religious conflicts between Catholics and Protestants. Catherine, a staunch Catholic, sought to maintain a delicate balance of power and religious harmony within the…

  • 1500s,  Huguenot,  Mistress

    The unsung architects of the Edict of Nantes (yes, they were women)

    The Unsung (Female) Architects of the Edict of Nantes. If you have Huguenot ancestry, or if you’ve studied 16th French history, you’ve no doubt heard of the Edict of Nantes, which Henry IV of France promulgated on this day in 1588. Henry is celebrated by historians for being pragmatic and good natured enough to unite the Protestant and Catholic factions of France after a century of bloody religious warfare, which led to the proclamation that French Protestants would be hereafter be given equal rights as Catholics under French law. While that’s essentially true, the official story handed down by scholars leaves out two essential figures who shepherded the Edict through…

  • Mistress

    Want to learn more about Gabrielle d’Estrees? Start here

    discover this Videos about Gabrielle d’ Estreees If a video is more your style, start with these short You Tube videos that give an overview of Gabrielle’s life: Gabrielle’s connection to the Chateau de Chenonceau: And of course, there are some great videos in French: (it’s VERY SHORT!) The most famous painting of Gabrielle: Don’t forget to check out these videos explaining the painting Gabrielle d’Estrees And Her Sister, which hangs in the Louvre!