Gone Medieval Castles, Kings and Courtly Life
Oct 22, 2024
Dr. William Hepburn, an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Aberdeen and author of "The Household and Court of James IV of Scotland," dives into the storied past of Stirling Castle. He discusses its evolution from a sturdy wooden fortress to a lavish Renaissance palace, highlighting its strategic significance in Scottish history. Hepburn also explores royal life during James IV's reign, the cultural advancements of Stirling Palace, and how the castle became a symbol of Scottish independence amid historical conflicts like the siege of 1304.
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Chapel As Royal Messaging
- A chapel or chapel royal signalled royal piety and reinforced the king's moral authority.
- The collegiate chapel provided a permanent corps of clerics to project and pray for the royal image.
Building To Attract Courtly Access
- James IV invested heavily at Stirling to create a court that attracted the nobility and encouraged access to the king.
- His building program aimed less at abstract European display and more at local political integration.
Leisure As Political Tool
- Stirling functioned as both royal pleasure ground and political stage, with deer parks and hunting halls extending its influence.
- Leisure activities enabled informal access to the king and blurred politics with recreation.