1322: Accession, Coronation, and Title of King of Navarre
p5Charles IV the Fair: The Last Direct Capetian and Dynastic Shift (1322–1328) · HIGH MIDDLE AGES
Charles of La Marche ascends to the throne upon the death of his brother Philip V on January 3, 1322. This time, the accession occurs without contest: Charles disregards any possible rights of his nieces (Joan of Navarre and the daughters of Philip V), and the practice of succession has already hardened since 1316–1317.
🕯️ Coronation at Reims
Charles IV is crowned at Reims on February 21, 1322 by archbishop Robert of Courtenay. The coronation stages a Capetian continuity: it serves to show that the crisis of 1316 is now “digested” by stabilized political practices.
👑 King of France and Navarre
As heir to his mother Joan of Navarre, Charles adds to the title of king of France that of king of Navarre. The Capetian monarchy thus joins two crowns, with dynastic stakes that will weigh on the succession of 1328.
🧠 Key Points to Remember
- January 3, 1322: Accession without major contest.
- February 21, 1322: Coronation at Reims, legitimacy displayed.
- Charles IV also claims the title of king of Navarre.