Enguerrand de Monstrelet facts for kids
Enguerrand de Monstrelet (around 1400 – July 20, 1453) was a French writer who recorded history. He is known for continuing the work of another famous historian, Jean Froissart. Monstrelet wrote about important events that happened in France during his lifetime.
Contents
About Enguerrand de Monstrelet
Enguerrand de Monstrelet was born in Picardy, a region in France. His family was likely part of the minor nobility. This meant they had some social standing, but were not extremely wealthy or powerful.
His Life and Work
From 1436 onwards, Monstrelet held an important job in Cambrai. He was the lieutenant of the gavenier. This person was in charge of collecting a type of church tax called the gave. Cambrai seems to have been his main home.
His Roles in Cambrai
He also worked for the cathedral in Cambrai. For a time, he was the bailiff for the cathedral chapter. This meant he managed the legal and financial matters for the group of clergy who ran the cathedral. Later, he became the provost of Cambrai. This was another important administrative role. Monstrelet was married and had children.
His Famous Chronicle
Not much else is known about Monstrelet's personal life. However, we do know he was present when Joan of Arc was questioned. This happened after she was captured, but he was not there for her capture itself. He was with Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy during the questioning.
What He Wrote About
Monstrelet continued the historical writings of Jean Froissart. His own major work is called the Chronique, or "Chronicle." This book is divided into two parts. It covers the years between 1400 and 1444. Another historian, Mathieu d'Escouchy, said that Monstrelet stopped writing in 1444.
Key Events in His Chronicle
His Chronique includes his thoughts on the Battle of Tannenburg (1410). This battle was fought between the Teutonic Order and armies from Poland, Lithuania, and their allies. Monstrelet wrote that the King of Poland had "just recently pretended to become a Christian." He said this was done to win the Polish Crown.
The Value of His Writings
Monstrelet's writings are very important. They cover the later part of the Hundred Years' War. His work contains many real documents and reported speeches. This makes his chronicle a valuable source for historians. However, his writing style was not very exciting. While clear, it could be a bit dull. He often claimed to be fair, but he clearly preferred the Burgundians. This was during their conflict with France.
Where to Find His Books
Many versions of Monstrelet's Chronique have been published. Some notable editions include those by J.-A. Buchon in 1826. Another important edition was put together by M. Doüet-d'Arcq. This version was published in Paris between 1857 and 1862.
Works
- Tome 1 1857
- Tome 2 1858
- Tome 3 1859
- Tome 4 1860
- Tome 5 1861
- Tome 6 1862
