How British Monarchs Were Educated in Military Strategy: An Overview

The education of British monarchs during the Middle Ages and early modern times did not include a formal study of military strategy or tactics. Instead, the focus was on a more holistic approach, blending courtly education with practical experience on the battlefield.

Education and Early Training

While there was no formal study of military strategy in the modern sense, there were understood patterns of combat which were taught to the young heirs to the British throne. These patterns were often conveyed through childhood games and contests such as hunting and archery, indicating that even in the absence of formal military training, there was an understanding of the importance of physical and combat skills.

According to historical records, many young heirs to the throne did not read or write themselves, as clerics and court scribes handled these tasks for them. However, battles during this period were often resolved by sheer numerical superiority, supplemented by advancements in weaponry like Welsh archers, Genovese crossbowmen, and cannons, which had a significant impact.

The Role of Court Tutors and Mentors

British monarchs were educated in court for a variety of roles, including military, papal, ruling, and finance. The heir to the throne, in particular, was educated in all these areas. This education was not merely theoretical; it was practical, with court tutors and titled mentors who taught both the martial traditions and the history of their line, including the military aspects. Historical accounts in Latin often provided a more abstract understanding of strategy.

Notable Examples

The education and battlefield experiences of certain monarchs provide vivid examples of their learning and aptitude. Edward I, for instance, was known as the 'Hammer of the Scots,' but his son Edward II, who inherited the throne after his father, was outmatched and outmaneuvered by Robert the Bruce in the Battle of Bannockburn.

Edward the Black Prince

One of the most notable examples of this education and its impact is Edward the Black Prince, born in 1330. At the age of 16, he led the vanguard at the Battle of Crecy in 1346, where he defeated the French. His natural aptitude and valor in battle led to his nickname, and he later led many successful campaigns with his father throughout France. His legacy is enshrined in his burial at Canterbury Cathedral, a testament to his military prowess and chivalric virtues.

These examples highlight the bifurcated nature of the education of British monarchs: a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, underpinned by the importance of martial virtues and an understanding of military strategy, albeit in a more anecdotal and experiential form.

Conclusion

While there was no formal study of military strategy during the Middle Ages and early modern times, the education of British monarchs was rich and multifaceted. It encompassed courtly roles, history, and the practical experience on the battlefield, preparing them not just for the responsibilities of ruling, but also for the challenges of warfare.

References

For further reading, consider the work of historians such as Christopher Harper-Bill, as well as primary sources from the era, which provide a deeper insight into the education and experiences of British monarchs during this period.