Isabel of Portugal, Duchess of Burgundy
1429, the Convent of São Bento de Avis, and Isabel, Princess of Portugal, contemplates marriage to Philippe, Duke of Burgundy. It’s a step down: Isabel is royal, while Philippe is only a duke. But his court is one of the wealthiest in Europe. And Isabel is old—in her thirties. However, Isabel is also clever. Since her mother died, fourteen years previously, she has proved herself a capable administrator, supporting her father as de facto Queen of Portugal. Hence, she appreciates the benefit to Portugal of the marriage. Despite her reluctance, she embarks upon a new life.
The marriage weds Burgundy’s wealth to Isabel’s brother Henrique’s voyages of discovery. Isabel funds Henrique, and he feeds exotic discoveries to the tradesmen of Bruges and Ghent. Isabel continued to be involved in government. She was noted for fiscal skills and diplomacy. This book is illuminated by the luxury and conspicuous displays of the Burgundian court. But Isabel never returned home, and much of the story is told in letters.
This story focuses on politics woven with familial love. Meandering “real-life” events are held together by the threads of Isabel’s pride in her inheritance, her piety, and the relationship with her “milk-brother”, son of her wet-nurse and adviser to King Alfonso V of Portugal.
I felt a bit bogged down in the middle, when events feel a little repetitive: Philippe’s marital infidelities; crusades against “the infidel”; and succession crises in Portugal, France and England. However, I enjoyed seeing the 15th century through a European lens, and the action picks up again towards the end. This is a work of considerable scholarship, with a bibliography in three languages. It is supported by maps, family trees, and a dramatis personae with historical notes. Recommended for lovers of Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir.
