Graaf Willem I van Holland (1202-1222): ridderschap en machtspolitiek

Abstract

Count William I of Holland (1203-1222): Chivalry and Power PoliticsWilliam I, Count of Holland (1203-1222) is generally known as a chivalric prince who was more interested in the international theatre of war than in governing his own estate. William did indeed participate in two crusades (1189-1191 and 1217-1219), one major 'European' battle (Bouvines 1214) and a French invasion in England (1216). However, these 'chivalric' activities did not stem from sheer personal impetuosity and a lust for adventure. In all cases, political motives played a role. Chivalric behavior went hand in hand with pragmatic power politics.