The Black Prince

This work aims to get behind the familiar splendid vision of chivalry to reveal the realities of the character and the life of Edward, Prince of Wales and Aquitaine, also known as the Black Prince.

Edward, Prince of Wales and Aquitaine, known as the Black Prince, is one of the legendary figures of English history-the victor of three great battles and a model pf chivalry and courtesy. Based on official records, particularly of Edward's own household and of those who campaigned with him, this work aims to get behind the familiar splendid vision of chivalry to reveal the realities of his character and of the life that he led. Special attention has been paid not only to the confusing and confused accounts of the great battles, but also to the prince's early years, the close companions who contributed so greatly to his success, and his government of Aquitane-an obscure but important part of his career. The author also seeks to correct a number of minor but persistent errors in earlier histories, deriving from Froissart, and examines how the legend of the Black Prince - including his curious nickname-came into being. Richard Barber's biography of this leading figure of the medieval period, has dominated the field since it was first published, covering all aspects of the Black Prince's life and military career. Son of Edward III, and father of Richard II, Edward the Black Prince was one of the most successful English commanders in the Hundred Years War who won victories on the battlefields of Crecy and Poitiers.