French Renaissance Monarchy: Francis I & Henry II

Seminar Studies in History

by Robert J. Knecht

First published in 1984, Professor Knecht's study quickly established itself as the best short account of the period. The reigns of Francis I and Henry II, spanning the first half of the sixteenth century, are one of the most colourful and formative periods of French history. In addition to examining the nature and effectiveness of their reigns, Professor Knecht also examines their foreign policies which brought them into conflict with other major powers. For this new edition the author has added a new chapter on paatronage and the arts.

Genres: History

145 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1984

About the author

Robert Jean Knecht was Emeritus Professor of French History at the University of Birmingham, where he has taught since 1956. A fellow of the Royal Historical Society and a member of the Société de l'Histoire de France, Professor Knecht was Reviews Editor of the journal French History and was a member of its editorial board. He was also Chairman of the Society for Renaissance Studies and Chairman of the Society for French History. He was also a member of the Advisory Board of the Centre for the Study of the Renaissance at the University of Warwick. He has also published extensively in the field of French history, his principal work being on the reign of Francis I.

Reviews

[Ron Nurmi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good brief look at two French kings of the Renaissance period. It is really aimed at a college course, but it is a good starting point for anyone interested in this period of French history.

[cat edge]

I guess the only question is who do I prefer, Francis or Henri ? Now, Henri IV will always be my favourite French king, but I would have to say Francis is far superior to Henri II simply because he's way less boring

[Elizabeth Hinchcliffe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read for my degree - very useful and concise in terms of learning about Francis I. Does what it says on the tin, pretty much.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Used for my essay on the presentation of masculinity on the Renaissance kings - primarily focused on Francis i's sections of this book. Very interesting read.