Thematic chess games – The Hundred Years War

These Hundred Years War themed chess sets recreate history spanning over 100 years, this war which was associated with control of France was seen with periods of peace before it finally came in 1453. Under King Henry II, England had as much land in France as the French king had control over. However, this was changing and the French were claiming more and more territory and the English were fleeing to the England to which they were loyal.

One of the most significant figures of the war was Frances’ own Joan of Arc. She was only sixteen years old, but she insisted that she saw visions of heaven. Her leadership was quite powerful and under her influence the French were able to recapture parts of their land between 1429 and 1430. English troops were falling back and retreating. In 1430, Joan was captured and held captive in the Tower of Rouen awaiting her trial. She tried to escape several times from her prison. Prisoners of war are usually held for ransom; however, Joan came from a poor peasant family. The King was criticized for not stepping in to help. Joan was then tried and executed. Her crime was ‘heresy’ or an unorthodox change to a belief system. Joan was executed for dressing as a man in 1431.

The Hundred Years War Chess Set comes complete with Joan of Arc in one man’s battle gear acting as the queen of the French side. The knight wore armor and carried a full shield with his armor cloak on his shields. This collectible set includes castles with towers like the one that served as Joan’s prison, the kings of their countries in royal robes and men on horseback ready for battle. It is a step back in time, to medieval times, and a war that changed the face of Europe. Enjoy a piece of history in your home with this beautiful themed chess set and all its rich history.