Joan of Arc - The Mad King - Part 1 - Extra History

Recent questions

• What caused the conflict between the Armagnac and Burgundian factions?

  The conflict between the Armagnac and Burgundian factions was primarily fueled by personal and ideological differences. These factions emerged within the Council of Regents after King Charles VI descended into madness, leaving a power vacuum in France. The Armagnacs, led by Louis Duke of Orleans, and the Burgundians, led by John Duke of Burgundy, clashed over their differing visions for the future of the country. These tensions eventually escalated into a civil war marked by violence, kidnappings, and shifting allegiances.

• Who took over the rule of France in King Charles VI's absence?

  In the absence of King Charles VI, who had descended into madness, a Council of Regents took over the rule of France. This council was overseen by Queen Isabeau, who played a significant role in governing the country during this tumultuous period. With Charles incapacitated, the Council of Regents had to navigate the growing tensions between the Armagnac and Burgundian factions, ultimately leading to a civil war and the disinheritance of the French heir in favor of an English alliance.

• What led to King Charles VI's descent into madness?

  King Charles VI's descent into madness was a gradual process marked by periods of lucidity followed by delusions and erratic behavior. The initial trigger for his mental decline occurred on July 1st, 1392, when he led his army on a mission to punish an assassin. During this expedition, a leper warned Charles of betrayal, which seemed to have a profound impact on his psyche. Over time, Charles became increasingly agitated and aggressive towards his courtiers, eventually spiraling into a state of madness that left him incapacitated and unable to rule.

• How did the conflict between the Armagnac and Burgundian factions impact France?

  The conflict between the Armagnac and Burgundian factions had a significant impact on France, leading to a period of civil war characterized by brutal battles, shifting allegiances, and political turmoil. As these factions vied for power within the Council of Regents, tensions rose due to personal and ideological differences, resulting in violence and kidnappings. The instability caused by this internal strife ultimately led to the disinheritance of the French heir in favor of an alliance with England, further complicating the political landscape of France.

• Who were the key figures in the Armagnac and Burgundian factions?

  The Armagnac faction was led by Louis Duke of Orleans, a prominent nobleman who played a central role in the power struggle within the Council of Regents. On the other side, the Burgundian faction was led by John Duke of Burgundy, another influential figure who sought to assert his own vision for the future of France. These two leaders represented the ideological and personal differences that fueled the conflict between the Armagnac and Burgundian factions, ultimately leading to a period of civil war and political upheaval in the country.