Louis XI: The Universal Spider

Louis XI's accession in 1461 marked a new phase in French monarchical development. His sobriquet, "the Universal Spider," captured his preference for intrigue over open confrontation. Physically unprepossessing and deliberately dressing in bourgeois simplicity, Louis rejected chivalric display for calculating statecraft. His reign would consolidate Charles VII's reconquests while adding substantial territories through diplomacy and opportunism.

Louis's difficult relationship with his father shaped his approach to kingship. Years of exile in Burgundy after leading aristocratic revolts taught him the dangers of noble opposition. His accession triggered the League of the Public Weal (1465), as great nobles sought to limit royal authority. Louis's tactical defeat at Montlhéry but strategic victory through separate negotiations with League members demonstrated his preferred methods: divide opponents, make temporary concessions, then reverse them when advantageous.