An account of the causes, combatants and course of events in the successive conflicts which troubled the duchy for half a century. The medieval duchy of Brabant was one of the most powerful principalities of the Low Countries. During the second half of the fourteenth century, it underwent a particularly dramatic period in its history: the House of Leuven was on the point of disappearance, the duchy was coveted by Philip the Bold of Burgundy, who was already dreaming of extending the "Burgundian Empire" and, by a network of alliances, Brabant was drawn into the Hundred Years' War. The author reviews the successive conflicts which troubled the duchy between 1356 and 1406; the different authorities which influenced the course of military operations (the duchess and the duke, their officers, and the Estates of Brabant); describes the combatants, in particular the nobility and the urban militias; considers the practical aspects of warfare; and analyses the military obligations and contracts which bound the men at arms to the duke. SERGIO BOFFA is currently researching in the department of Maps and Plans, Bibliotheque Royale de Belgique, Brussels.

There is much more to this impressive monograph than its title suggests. An absorbing study. [...] As a foundation-laying work on late medieval Brabant, this book achieves a great deal. Indeed, it illuminates much else besides that duchy's history. Readers will find the Hundred Years War, the rise of Burgundy and the remarkable Luxembourg dynasty viewed from unusual angles. [...] Joins the classic works of J.F. Verbruggen and Claude Gaier.'

Source: English Historical Review

A very interesting and complete study of the military history of the Duchy. [...] So well-researched and finely detailed that it ought to be read by all who are trying to decipher medieval obligation. Highly recommended.'

Source: Choice

A classic study of 14th century warfare and its sinews in the duchy of Brabant. A richly-documented four-part study of how war was conducted and made possible.'

Source: American Historical Review