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Portugal -- History -- Afonso III, 1248-1279 Books

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Unknown

O Máo Rei e o Bom Subdito: Um Trecho da Historia Portugueza

"O Máo Rei e o Bom Subdito: Um Trecho da Historia Portugueza" by Unknown is a historical account written in the mid-19th century, specifically in 1851. The book delves into a tumultuous period in Portuguese history, focusing on the reign of King D. Sancho II, his unfit leadership, and the consequences of his actions on the kingdom. It examines themes of loyalty, virtue, and the complexities of power dynamics among nobility during this era. The narrative centers on King D. Sancho II, who, due to his indecisive and weak character, allows corrupt advisors and a beautiful woman named D. Mecia to manipulate him, leading to significant turmoil in the kingdom. As D. Mecia exerts her influence, nobles rise against D. Sancho, eventually resulting in his loss of power and a shift to the regency of his brother, Infante D. Affonso. The backbone of the story is the steadfast loyalty of D. Martim de Freitas, the Alcaide of Coimbra, who refuses to betray his king despite overwhelming pressure and dire circumstances. His loyalty shines through as he ultimately retains the castle for the rightful king, showcasing the virtues of honor and integrity in a time of chaos.

Rui de Pina

Chronica d'El-Rei D. Affonso III

"Chronica d'El-Rei D. Affonso III" by Rui de Pina is a historical account written in the early 16th century. The work chronicles the reign of D. Affonso III, the fifth king of Portugal, detailing his political maneuvers and military campaigns, particularly focusing on the expansion of his realm and the complexities of his reign marked by marriages and conflicts. The text aims to document the significant contributions of the king to the Portuguese monarchy and the territorial integrity of the nation. At the start of the chronicle, Rui de Pina outlines the circumstances of D. Affonso's ascension to the throne following the death of his brother, King D. Sancho. Affonso, initially titled as the Count of Boulogne, is depicted as a ruler of commendable virtues who reformed policies, improved governance, and undertook military endeavors, notably concerning the Algarve region. The opening chapters discuss his marriages—first to the Countess of Boulogne and later to the daughter of the King of Castile—highlighting the political significance of these unions and how they influenced his rule and the dynamics of power during his reign.

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