The Birth of 'Blanche the Duchesse': 1340 Versus 1347

Author / Editor
Loschiavo, Linda Ann.

Title
The Birth of 'Blanche the Duchesse': 1340 Versus 1347

Published
Chaucer Review 13 (1978): 128-32.

Description
Argues for the later date on two counts. First, discrepancies in the records allow only the conclusion that in 1361 Blanche was at least 14 years of age. Second, the custom of early marriage makes plausible that Blanche was only 12 when married in 1359; indeed, her early marriage is highly probable given that her father was anxious to secure a male heir as soon as possible.

Chaucer Subjects
Book of the Duchess.