The Aristocracy in Twelfth-Century Le}}n and Castile [Paperback]

An examination of the nature and role of the aristocracy in twelfth-century Spain.This volume examines the nature of aristocratic society in the Spanish kingdom of León and Castile in the twelfth century. Drawing on an extensive range of original sources, many of them unpublished, it highlights the unrivalled wealth, status and power enjoyed by some members of the aristocracy. It also explores the multifarious roles that lay magnates were expected to fulfil: as family protectors, landlords and judges; as courtiers, diplomats and military commanders; and, not least, as patrons of the church.This volume examines the nature of aristocratic society in the Spanish kingdom of León and Castile in the twelfth century. Drawing on an extensive range of original sources, many of them unpublished, it highlights the unrivalled wealth, status and power enjoyed by some members of the aristocracy. It also explores the multifarious roles that lay magnates were expected to fulfil: as family protectors, landlords and judges; as courtiers, diplomats and military commanders; and, not least, as patrons of the church.This volume examines the nature of aristocratic society in the Spanish kingdoms of León and Castile in the twelfth century. Drawing on an extensive range of original sources, many of them unpublished, it highlights the unrivaled wealth, status and power enjoyed by some members of the aristocracy. It also explores the multifarious roles that lay magnates were expected to fulfill: as family protectors, landlords and judges; as courtiers, diplomats and military commanders; and, not least, as patrons of the church.Preface; 1. Le?n and Castile in the twelfth century; 2. Class, family and household; 3. The lineaments of power; 4. The nobility of the crown; 5. A warrior aristocracy; 6. Piety and patronage; Conclusion; Appendices; Bibliography. ...an engrossing piece of social history, which...is highly suggestive regarding the process whereby an aristocratl“2