1349–1350: End of Reign, Recompositions, and Death of Philip VI
p5Philip VI of Valois: A New Dynasty, A War Begins (1328–1350) · HIGH MIDDLE AGES
After Crécy (1346) and the fall of Calais (1347), Philip VI is weakened. Crises accumulate: war, plague, finances. In the last years, power gradually shifts toward the dauphin John.
👑 The Dauphin Takes Charge
Under pressure, John, Duke of Normandy, takes a central role. He reorganizes the royal entourage, rehabilitates allies, and reinforces instruments of government. The objective is to restore authority after setbacks.
💍 Burgundy: An Alliances Game in Time of Plague
The plague strikes the royal family: Bonne of Luxembourg dies in 1349. John remarries on February 19, 1350 at Nanterre to Joan of Boulogne, heiress of important counties and regent of the Duchy of Burgundy for her son. This marriage reinforces dynastic and territorial positions, despite the crisis.
⚰️ Death of the King (August 22–23, 1350)
Philip VI dies in the night of August 22 to 23, 1350. He leaves a kingdom lastingly disorganized, where war becomes entrenched and social tensions rise. His son succeeds him: a new phase of the conflict opens.
🧠 Key Points to Remember
- 1349–1350: war and plague force a recomposition of power.
- 1350: death of Philip VI; dynastic continuity assured by John II.