born 1333?, Valenciennes, Brabant
died 1400/01, Chimay, Hainaut
French court historian and poet.
As a scholar Froissart traveled widely and lived among the nobility of several European courts. His Chronicles , a firsthand narrative covering the Hundred Years' War from 1325 to 1400, including events in Flanders, Spain, Portugal, France, and England, is the most important and detailed document of feudal times and the best contemporary exposition of chivalric and courtly ideals. He also wrote ballades, rondeaux, and allegorical poetry celebrating courtly love.
Jean Froissart (seated), writing his Chroniques, miniature from a mid-15th-century ...
Courtesy of the Bibliotheque de l'Arsenal, Paris; photograph, Studio STA Photo