Joan de Mohun: a powerful courtier during the reign of Richard II
This dissertation examines English court culture and court politics through the life of Joan de Mohun (d. 1404). A member of the Burghershes, a socially aspirational family in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, Joan benefitted from an advantageous marriage to the higher-ranking John de Mohun V (1320-1375). Although possessing status, the Mohuns struggled financially and experienced political marginalization from their seat at Dunster Castle. Lady Mohun, however, continued the social aspirations of her natal family and formed personal friendships with England’s most powerful individuals, including John of Gaunt, Richard II, and Queen Anne. Through her efforts, she successfully negotiated for a place at court. This dissertation explores how Joan orchestrated a move from the periphery of the elite to a prominent position in the court of Richard II. Surviving evidence, like the Mohun Chronicle, suggest the methods that Lady Mohun employed to fashion her image as an ideal courtier whose family was chivalrous. This reputation as the ideal courtier enabled Joan to both serve at court while also improving her personal social standing. Through examining primary evidence that document gift exchanges with Edward III, John of Gaunt, Richard II, and Queen Anne, this dissertation traces both the relationships that Lady Mohun cultivated and the closeness of such interactions. Joan became a confidante of John of Gaunt, Richard II, and Queen Anne, as suggested by the nature of the gifts exchanged, and through the patronage and the honors that Joan received. This dissertation additionally explores similar courtiers and suggests that the methods employed by Lady Mohun were used by others seeking favor and a place at court. Joan used these methods to great success, and a comparison of her actions with others provides insight into the politics of favor at the court of Richard II. Known for his inclusion of non-traditional players at court, Richard II honored a number of newcomers and women. The life of Joan de Mohun serves as a case study of court culture during the reign of Richard II, and an examination of her life demonstrates the factors that influenced a courtier’s rise.
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