Gone Medieval Podcast Summary: The Battle of Crécy

Episode Title: The Battle of Crécy
Host: Matt Lewis & Dr. Eleanor Jaenega
Guest: Professor Michael Livingstone
Release Date: April 25, 2025

Introduction to the Battle of Crécy

In this riveting episode of Gone Medieval, Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Jaenega delve deep into the intricacies of the Battle of Crécy, a pivotal conflict in the Hundred Years' War. Joined by Professor Michael Livingstone, the conversation unpacks not only the battle's immediate outcomes but also its enduring legacy in medieval history.

Context Within the Hundred Years' War

Professor Livingstone sets the stage by situating the Battle of Crécy within the broader scope of the Hundred Years' War. He emphasizes its significance as one of the earliest major land battles in the conflict.

Professor Michael Livingstone [04:27]: "This is really the first major land battle that we get of the Hundred Years War. So it's kind of on the front end of when most people define the 100 Years War."

Lewis critiques the British tendency to memorialize the war primarily as a series of English triumphs, often neglecting the defeats and the war's ultimate outcome.

Matt Lewis [05:20]: "We tend to be particularly bad, I think, in Britain, of remembering the Hundred Years War as a series of glorious English victories. Picking our moments very carefully when we talk about it, and we forget the times we lost and we forget that we lost the whole thing."

The Genesis of the Battle

The episode explores the strategic maneuvers leading up to Crécy. Edward III’s ambitious campaign in 1346, aimed at asserting his claim against Philip of France, initially appears successful but soon encounters significant challenges.

Professor Livingstone [04:49]: "Edward is forced to march all the way practically to the gates of Paris. It's really kind of an extraordinary move that Philippe makes here."

Despite initial setbacks, Edward's resilience leads to a decisive victory, marking one of England’s greatest military successes.

The Five Kings: An International Conflict

One of the standout features of the Battle of Crécy, as highlighted by Professor Livingstone, is its international nature, involving five monarchs from across Europe.

Professor Livingstone [12:18]: "The Black Prince is there. He's not the Black Prince yet. He hasn't called that yet, but... we technically have five kings on the field, but it's, it's 1v4."

The five kings include Edward III of England, Philip VI of France, King John of Bohemia, his son (the future Holy Roman Emperor), and the King of Mallorca. This diverse assembly not only amplifies the battle's significance but also provides a rich tapestry of historical sources from various European perspectives.

Professor Livingstone [12:51]: "We've got sources from Bohemian, Medieval, Czech. We've got all these Italian sources, obviously French, English sources, Welsh sources. It's an absolutely phenomenal battle for seeing how everybody's viewing it."

Reassessing the Battle’s Location

A major revelation discussed in the episode is Professor Livingstone's research suggesting a new location for the Battle of Crécy. Traditional accounts pinpoint the battlefield near Cressy on Pontoy, but discrepancies in military strategy and topography led Livingstone to re-examine historical sources.

Professor Livingstone [17:32]: "The traditional site... wasn't computing. There’s no way the English took this position and the French did what you said they're doing. That doesn't work."

Through meticulous analysis of 81 different sources, Livingstone posits that the battle actually occurred a few miles south of the traditional site, adjacent to the Forest of Crécy. This new location aligns better with military tactics and the logistical movements of both armies.

Professor Livingstone [17:52]: "It’s down the street from me here in South Carolina. So it's a few miles south of the traditional location. And that’s where then, you know, sort of hypothesis started."

Tactical Innovations at Crécy

The discussion highlights several tactical innovations employed by the English, which contributed significantly to their victory. Notably, the use of longbowmen and the strategic deployment of artillery were game-changers on the medieval battlefield.

Professor Livingstone [23:59]: "The first time we get artillery pieces used... they’re being used to disturb... the noise, the flash, the smoke, it’s going to freak out horses and disrupt what they’re trying to do."

Edward III's integration of cannonfire served not merely as a direct weapon but as psychological warfare, disrupting the French cavalry charges and creating chaos within their ranks.

The Role of the Black Prince

A focal point of the battle was the involvement of Edward III's son, the Black Prince. At just 16 years old, he was thrust into the chaos of battlefield command, an experience that would cement his legendary status.

Professor Livingstone [16:06]: "The Black Prince is there. He's not the Black Prince yet. He hasn't called that yet, but... he's 16 years old. This is his first real action."

Despite being designated as bait, the Black Prince bravely engaged in combat, a decision that, while reckless, showcased his valor and leadership. His actions, although not entirely according to his father's directives, played a crucial role in sustaining the English offensive.

Professor Livingstone [38:18]: "He is 16 years old. This is his first real action. He definitely becomes part of the legend of Crécy."

The Tragic Death of John of Bohemia

Another significant element discussed is the death of King John of Bohemia, a respected and battle-hardened monarch. His valor and tragic end epitomize the nobility and the futility of medieval warfare.

Professor Livingstone [46:29]: "The whole story about the crest being from John Bohemia is not true... but it is true that King John of Bohemia did die there."

John's demise, marked by personal bravery and the loyalty of his knights, underscores the high stakes and personal costs of leadership during this era.

Professor Livingstone [47:54]: "These two knights take him into where the fighting is the fiercest and he does die there, as do they."

Legacy and Impact of the Battle

The Battle of Crécy had far-reaching implications beyond immediate military outcomes. It not only bolstered England's position in the war but also introduced new military tactics and reinforced the importance of command and control.

Professor Livingstone [49:53]: "This puts England kind of on the map... people are talking about this great English victory all over Europe."

The battle's success paved the way for the Siege of Calais, ensuring English dominance in strategic regions and setting a precedent for future conflicts, including those led by Henry V.

Professor Livingstone [52:07]: "Henry V is very deliberately like, I'm going to do what Edward did. And it goes even worse, frankly..."

The enduring legacy of Crécy is also observed in its influence on national mythology and military doctrine, shaping the narratives of both England and France for generations.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a reflection on the Battle of Crécy's enduring significance. Professor Livingstone emphasizes its multifaceted impact on military strategy, international relations, and national identity.

Professor Livingstone [51:32]: "It creates a national myth."

As the Hundred Years' War continued to unfold, the lessons and outcomes of Crécy remained a reference point for both strategic planning and the valorization of medieval warfare heroes.

Notable Quotes

• Professor Livingstone [04:27]: "This is really the first major land battle that we get of the Hundred Years War."
• Matt Lewis [05:20]: "We tend to be particularly bad... of remembering the Hundred Years War as a series of glorious English victories."
• Professor Livingstone [23:59]: "The first time we get artillery pieces used... it’s going to freak out horses and disrupt what they’re trying to do."
• Professor Livingstone [38:18]: "He definitely becomes part of the legend of Crécy."
• Professor Livingstone [46:29]: "It is true that King John of Bohemia did die there."
• Professor Livingstone [49:53]: "This puts England kind of on the map... this is a force to be reckoned with."
• Professor Livingstone [52:07]: "Henry V is very deliberately like, I'm going to do what Edward did."

Final Thoughts

Through a blend of meticulous research and engaging discussion, Gone Medieval brings to life the complexities of the Battle of Crécy. Professor Michael Livingstone's insights not only challenge traditional narratives but also enrich our understanding of medieval warfare and its lasting impact on European history.

For listeners eager to explore more, Professor Livingstone's book, Battle of Five Kings, offers an in-depth analysis of this monumental conflict. Additionally, History Hit's extensive library of documentaries and forthcoming releases provide ample resources for those passionate about the medieval era.

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