Resveillier ceulx qui dorment en pechié : Philippe de Mézières et la tradition des miroirs du prince

Abstract

Resveillier ceulx qui dorment en pechié : Philippe de Mézières and the Mirror for Princes Tradition At first glance, the Songe du Vieil Pelerin by Philippe de Mézières seems to hold a separate place in the history of the mirror for princes. His main subject is the reform of the world and he develops plans for a new crusade. The “reformation” of the royal person and the kingdom are important stages along this road. This aspect links the work, particularly its third volume, to the mirror for princes tradition. Using the literary form of the dream enables the author to express a severe critique of contemporary morals and of the dysfunction of the polical and legal system and to show the necessity for fundamental reform. The close link between the theological and religious realms and that of the reform of the State is one of the common points between Mézières’ Songe and German political tracts from the end of the Middle Ages.