Kings and Court of Middle Ages

The King’s Court

The king’s council and household are collectively referred to as the “king’s court.” Everywhere the king went, the court followed. The wise (ideally) men of the king’s court—relatives, barons, lords, and clergymen like bishops—would be consulted for guidance.

The word “court” refers to the fact that most rulers presided over courts and rendered verdicts. They would hear a variety of grievances and disputes, particularly those involving the most influential barons and lords. The council would then assist them in making decisions.

Going to His Subjects

In order for the king to observe events in his realm firsthand, the king’s court frequently travelled around the country. The local subjects were supposed to offer food, entertainment, and lodging when the monarch arrived. Not all rulers were welcome, and it may be quite expensive.

How was a king chosen?

Kings have risen to power in a variety of ways. The right to reign was regarded as being in the blood of the king in many cultures. The eldest son of a king would succeed him when he passed away. Hereditary succession is what causes this. The king’s brother or another male relative might be chosen to take the throne if the monarch didn’t have an eldest son. Kings occasionally ascended to power by assassination or by waging war and capturing territory.

Of course, a monarch needs the backing of his nobles and lords in order to rule. In many ways, these strong men chose the king. There were several nations where the monarch was chosen by a council, such as the Witan council in Anglo-Saxon England.

Coronation

A coronation is a unique ceremony used to crown new rulers. A religious official from the church, such as the pope or a bishop, would crown the monarch during the Middle Ages at a coronation ceremony. To show that they had divine authority to reign, kings were frequently anointed with holy oil.

Queens

Queens were typically not permitted to rule alone during the Middle Ages. There were a few outliers, including Isabella I of Spain and Empress Matilda of England. However, numerous queens wielded authority and control over the nation, including Margaret of Anjou and Eleanor of Aquitaine.

How did kings make money?

All monarchs required money to reign, albeit some were wealthier than others. Along with paying for armies and conflicts, they also had to pay for their basic needs. Kings used a variety of methods to raise money. To wage war and plunder other countries was one option. Other methods included paying their lords fees and taxing the populace. Some lords chose to pay the king “shield money” rather than engage in combat. The king may then employ his own troops to fight for him. To avoid a peasant uprising, kings had to be careful not to overtax the populace.

Conserving Power

After being crowned king, a person’s main focus was on maintaining that position. Not so simple, actually. There were frequently powerful nobles and close relatives who believed they should be king. Because messages took so long to get throughout the entire country, managing enormous empires was particularly challenging. Kings devoted a great deal of attention to ensuring that their lords stayed obedient and didn’t get too strong.

Interesting details about mediaeval kings and their courts

Taxes were frequently only imposed when the king wanted to raise an army for battle or ran out of funds.

The majority of kings in the early Middle Ages were illiterate.

To certify official documents, the kings used a unique seal. The seal served as the king’s signature and served as evidence that the document was authentic.

Kings were expected to lead their troops into war during the Middle Ages.

Kings frequently asserted that they had been given the authority to rule by God in order to preserve control. As a result, the pope’s and the church’s approval became crucial.