The Parisian Summit, 1377-78 - Emperor Charles IV and King Charles V of France – Šmahel František (2015)

František Šmahel's book traces the last great diplomatic journey of the Czech king and Roman emperor Charles IV and his meeting with the French king Charles V in Paris in 1378. Professor Šmahel utilized insights from archaeology and microhistory, as well as cultural anthropology and iconography. The result is an attractive depiction of medieval life, major European politics, and even the cuisine of the time. The narrative of the events at the turn of 1377 and 1378 is preceded by an introduction to both main actors, including the youth of the future emperor spent in Paris and the political and international goals of his father, John of Luxembourg. The summit of the two most influential European monarchs of the time is presented through the original account of the contemporary source, the Relation of the Great Chronicles of France, and a multitude of illuminations that capture almost every step of the crowned heads. The concluding part introduces the reader to the practical organization of royal festivities and banquets, the accommodation of guests, dining customs, recipes for dishes, and the significance of contemporary rituals, ceremonies, and other aspects of Charles IV's stay in France. The author's engaging style is sure to appeal to both experts and the general public. English edition of the publication.