The Kings of France: Rulers of a Medieval Powerhouse

Medieval France was not initially a united country but a collection of feudal territories ruled by different lords and princes. It wasn’t until the 10th century that the Carolingian dynasty, with the help of the Church, began to consolidate power and establish a centralized monarchy.

However, even under the Capetian dynasty (which began in 987), France remained a patchwork of territories, and it wasn’t until the Hundred Years’ War with England in the 14th and 15th centuries that a sense of French national identity began to emerge.

The country we know as France today, was one of the most powerful and influential nations in Europe, has a rich history of monarchs who ruled over the country from the early to late medieval period.

From the first kings of the Franks to the Valois dynasty, the kings of France played a significant role in shaping the destiny of their country and Europe as a whole.

“Louis IX’s reign was one of the most glorious in French history, not just because of his military victories, but because of his piety, his wisdom, and his compassion.”
William Chester Jordan, Professor of Medieval History at Princeton University

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive list of the kings of France from the early to late medieval period, highlighting their key events, achievements, and contributions to French history.

Notable French Kings – Early Medieval Period (5th century to 11th century)

Clovis I (c. 466-511): The first king of the Franks and the founder of the Merovingian dynasty. He united the Frankish tribes under his rule and converted to Christianity, establishing the first Christian kingdom in Europe.

Charlemagne (742-814): One of the most famous kings of the early medieval period, he was the founder of the Carolingian Empire. He was known for his military campaigns and his reforms of education, government, and religion.

Hugh Capet (c. 938-996): The founder of the Capetian dynasty and the first king of France. He succeeded the last Carolingian king and established a hereditary monarchy, laying the foundation for the future of France.

Notable French Kings – High Medieval Period (11th century to 13th century)

Philip I (1052-1108): The first king of the Capetian dynasty, he strengthened the royal power and expanded the territory of France. He also participated in the First Crusade and founded the city of La Ferté-Milon.

“Philip IV was a monarch who understood the power of propaganda and image-making, and he used both to great effect to promote his vision of the French monarchy.”
Joseph R. Strayer, Professor Emeritus of Medieval History at Princeton University

Louis VII (1120-1180): A key figure in the Second Crusade, he also established the University of Paris and contributed to the growth of Gothic architecture. He was known for his piety and his devotion to the Church.

Suptuary Laws Royal Colour Blue Coronation of Louis VIII and Blanche of Castille

Philip II Augustus (1165-1223): One of the most successful kings of France, he expanded the territory of the kingdom and established the royal bureaucracy. He also participated in the Third Crusade and defeated King John of England in the Battle of Bouvines.

“Charles VII’s reign marked a turning point in French history, as he led the country out of the Hundred Years’ War and established a strong central government.”
Jonathan Sumption, Historian and former Justice of the UK Supreme Court

Philip II Augustus Famous Medieval King of France Portrait

Notable French Kings – Late Medieval Period (14th century to 15th century)

Charles V (1338-1380): Known as the Wise, he reformed the administration and the judiciary, and promoted the arts and literature. He also successfully defended France against the English during the Hundred Years’ War.

Charles VI (1368-1422): Known as the Mad, he suffered from mental illness and was unable to rule effectively. His reign was marked by the outbreak of the Hundred Years’ War and the emergence of the Burgundian faction.

Charles VII (1403-1461): Known as the Victorious, he successfully drove the English out of France and established a strong central government. He also supported the arts and the education, and founded the University of Poitiers.

“Philip II Augustus was one of the most capable and effective kings of medieval France, and his reign laid the foundations for the French monarchy’s rise to greatness.”
Jim Bradbury, Historian and author of “The Capetians: Kings of France, 987-1328”

Conclusion

The kings of France from the early to late medieval period played a crucial role in the growth and influence of their country and the wider world. From the Merovingian dynasty to the Valois dynasty, they shaped the destiny of France and contributed to the development of European civilization. By understanding their key events, achievements, and contributions, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the history and culture of this great nation.

“Hugh Capet’s reign marked the beginning of the Capetian dynasty, which would rule France for over three centuries and lay the foundation for the French monarchy as we know it today.”
John Bell Henneman Jr., Professor Emeritus of History at the University of Virginia.

5 Great Books – kings of Medieval France

“The Capetians: Kings of France, 987-1328” by Jim Bradbury
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the Capetian dynasty, from its founding by Hugh Capet in 987 to the death of Charles IV in 1328. It covers the reigns of notable kings such as Philip II Augustus and Louis IX, as well as lesser-known monarchs.

“The Wars of the Roses” by Alison Weir
While not strictly about medieval kings of France, this book covers the tumultuous period of English history in the 15th century when the English and French monarchies were frequently at war. It provides insight into the reigns of French kings such as Charles VII and Louis XI.

“Philip the Fair and Boniface VIII: State vs Papacy” by Joseph R. Strayer
This book focuses on the reign of Philip IV the Fair, who is widely considered one of the most powerful and influential kings of medieval France. It explores his conflicts with Pope Boniface VIII and his efforts to strengthen the power of the French monarchy.

“Louis XIV” by John B. Wolf
While not strictly a medieval king, Louis XIV is an important figure in French history and helped shape the monarchy as it evolved into the modern era. This book provides a comprehensive biography of the Sun King, covering his childhood, reign, and legacy.

“The French Nobility in the Eighteenth Century: From Feudalism to Enlightenment” by Guy Chaussinand-Nogaret
This book covers the decline of the French monarchy in the 18th century and the role of the French nobility in that decline. It provides insight into the social and political factors that led to the French Revolution and the end of the monarchy.

Medieval France