Catalan Medieval Literature and Historical Chronicles

Chronicle of James I (1208-1276)

The Chronicle of James I is an autobiographical account, presented in chronological order, of the events spanning from James I's birth to the territorial conquests of Majorca, Ibiza, Valencia, and Murcia. It details his challenges with the nobility and political pacts with Castile. The language is vivid and expressive, employing the majestic "we".

Bernat Desclot Chronicle (Late 13th Century)

This chronicle, traditionally attributed to Bernat Desclot, though likely written by an officer of the court, focuses on the reign of Peter II (1276-1285). It highlights significant episodes from the King's campaign in Sicily. The narrator uses the third person, providing an external perspective that lends an air of objectivity. However, the underlying intention is to exalt Peter II. The language is straightforward, with occasional elements derived from administrative documents. The chronicle also incorporates legendary items, reflecting medieval influences.

Chronicle of Ramon Muntaner (1265-1336)

Ramon Muntaner, a nobleman who witnessed the military campaigns of his time, began writing his chronicle in 1325 in Xirivella. His aim was to praise the exploits and virtues of the kings of the House of Aragon (Peter I, Peter II, Alfonso II, James II, Alfonso III). Muntaner narrates his memories and experiences using a *joglaresc* (minstrel-like) style, employing formulas to enhance narrative interest, such as direct appeals to the audience and the use of the first, second, and third person. The influence of chivalric romances is evident in his narrative style.

Chronicle of Peter of Aragon (1336-1387)

Authored by King Peter III and IV of Aragon in Barcelona, this chronicle reflects his dedication to the organization of the royal chancery. This favored the preservation of royal archives and the translation of works that contributed to Humanism. During his reign, Catalan literature matured significantly. The chronicle recounts events during the reign of his father, Alfonso III the Kind, and his own. The narrative employs the majestic "we" in an elegant and mature language, with characteristic elements of Humanism. The sovereign's aim is to exalt the king's absolute power against the nobility. It narrates episodes that reveal the cruelty of his government, such as the assassination of his brother, Ferdinand.

Francesc Eiximenis (c. 1340-1409)

Francesc Eiximenis was a Franciscan friar, born in Girona around 1340 into a bourgeois family. He lived for a long time in Valencia and died in Perpignan in 1409. He studied at prestigious European universities and achieved great fame both at court and in religious circles. His extensive work enjoyed great popularity. His most famous work, "Lo Crestià," is a collection of texts intended to guide Christians. It presents Christian doctrine in relation to the problems confronting medieval individuals. His style is clear and plain, with short stories accompanying lengthy expositions and nuanced arguments. Other notable works include *Llibre de les Dones* (Book of Women) and *Vita Christi* (Life of Christ).

Vincent Ferrer (1350-1418)

Vincent Ferrer, a Dominican friar born in Valencia, achieved international fame through his preaching across Spain, France, Switzerland, and Italy. A master of theology, he advised kings and popes and intervened directly in major religious and political events of the period (1378-1417), including the Western Schism (a Christian split caused by the existence of two and, at times, three simultaneous popes) and the Compromise of Caspe (1412). The Compromise of Caspe determined that Ferdinand of Aragon would be the successor to the throne of the Kingdom of Aragon after the childless death of Martin of Aragon. Canonized in 1455, Ferrer was not primarily a writer but a great orator who captivated audiences with sermons preached throughout Europe. Although he did not write extensively, portions of his sermons have been preserved.