The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire · Character
Robert II of Flanders
Also known as Robert Count of Flanders, Robert the Sword and Lance, Robert of Flanders
- Supporting
- First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 261
There's something both inspiring and formidable about this Flemish count whose very title—the Sword and Lance of the Christians—speaks to his martial reputation. His presence combines the piety of a crusader with the practical authority of a seasoned military commander. When he leads, men recognize both his noble birth and his willingness to share their hardships.
- Gender
- male
- Age
- Middle-aged
- First appears
- Book 1 · Ch. 261
- Books
- 1
Robert II of Flanders began as the Count of Flanders, surnamed the Sword and Lance of the Christians, who led crusader forces despite occasionally forgetting the duties of a general. He endured the hardships of the siege of Antioch, reduced to begging for dinner, and commanded the first division of crusader forces with skill and crossbowmen. His journey took him from crusader leader to Latin emperor, ultimately ending as a fugitive exile who had worn the imperial crown and purple buskins before losing everything.
Description
A middle-aged Flemish nobleman of crusader bearing, known as the Sword and Lance of the Christians, wearing the purple buskins and imperial regalia when appropriate to his station. His appearance reflects both his noble birth as Count of Flanders and his identity as a military commander, with the dignified presence of one accustomed to leading men in both the courts of Europe and the battlefields of the Holy Land. His bearing combines martial authority with the pious demeanor expected of a Christian prince.
Story so far
BOOK 1The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire / Table of Contents with links in the HTML file to the two Project Gutenberg editions (12 volumes)
Appearances
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