LE3 .A278 2014

2014

Whaley, Leigh Anne

Acadia University

Bachelor of Arts

Honours

History

History & Classics

The historiography of Catherine de’ Medici has evolved over time. Historians such as Paul Van Dyke and Jean Héritier sought to change Catherine’s reputation as a tyrant through evidence of her capabilities as a ruler and political powerhouse. Others, such as Sir John Ernest Neale and Sir Francis Watson of the period of “great man historiography,” insisted upon prescribing to the narrative of her evilness. This thesis shall pursue the same objective as that of Van Dyke and Héritier and attempt to show that Catherine was indeed a talented politician, who crafted conciliatory policies and maintained her power through her status as Queen Mother. It shall also be shown that Catherine was not responsible for the Saint-Bartholomew’s Day Massacre, and that it was caused largely by her son Charles IX’s impulsiveness and the mobs of Paris .

The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:1151