Glossary of Medieval Terms

Armagnacs - The faction supporting the Dauphin Charles VII against the Burgundians

Boulevard - A fortified outwork defending a gate or bridge

Burgundians - The faction allied with Duke Philip the Good of Burgundy, initially supporting English claims

Chevauchée - A raiding strategy designed to devastate enemy territory

Dauphin - The heir apparent to the French throne

Free Companies - Mercenary bands who fought for payment and plunder

Jacquerie - Peasant revolts, named after the 1358 uprising

Letters of marque - Official authorization for private warfare

Pucelle - "The Maid," Joan's chosen title emphasizing her virginity

Routiers - Professional soldiers who lived by war, often forming free companies

Salic Law - The legal principle barring inheritance through female line

See - The official seat or jurisdiction of a bishop

Tourelles - The fortified complex guarding Orleans bridge