# On the Historical Significance of the Treaty of Brétigny
**LONDON, 24 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the profound diplomatic legacy of the Barony, particularly the pivotal role played by Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, in the Treaty of Brétigny.
## The Occasion
In an age marked by the protracted conflict of the Hundred Years’ War, the signing of the Treaty of Brétigny on 8 May 1360 stood as a monumental diplomatic achievement. This landmark accord, negotiated in the Chartrain village of Brétigny and later ratified in Calais, represented a sincere, if ultimately temporary, cessation of hostilities between the Kingdoms of England and France.
The treaty sought to resolve the dynastic and territorial disputes that had plunged Western Europe into decades of warfare. For the Noble House of Brattleby, this historical moment serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring responsibilities of title: to pursue peace with the same vigour with which one defends honour. It is a legacy that continues to inform the House’s modern purpose.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been intrinsically linked with the history of the realm for over nine centuries. Its lineage, chronicled since its first mention in the Domesday Book of 1086 under Colswein of Lincoln, is populated by figures who shaped national destiny. From Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders, to Henry of Grosmont, the connection to Crown and country has been a constant.
Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and later the 1st Duke of Lancaster, was one of the most trusted commanders and diplomats in the service of King Edward III. His leadership in the Brétigny negotiations was the culmination of a life dedicated to the service of England. The Barony then passed to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, further cementing its position at the very centre of royal power and international statecraft.
## Distinguished Company
The negotiations at Brétigny brought together the most influential figures of the age. Acting as plenipotentiaries for King Edward III of England, Henry of Grosmont was joined by, *inter alia*:
* The Right Honourable The Earl of Warwick, KG * The Right Honourable The Earl of Stafford, KG * Sir John Chandos, KG, Seneschal of Poitou * Sir Walter Manny, KG, Admiral of the North
Representing King John II of France, who remained a captive in London, were his son and regent, the Dauphin Charles (later King Charles V), who designated his own councillors to finalise the terms. This assembly of seasoned warriors and shrewd statesmen underscores the gravity of their shared mission to secure peace.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The ratification of a medieval treaty was a solemn and intricate affair, far removed from modern diplomatic practice. The protocol at Calais in October 1360 required King Edward III and the captive King John II to swear sacred oaths upon the Gospels and the Holy Sacrament to uphold its terms. These oaths were a personal bond, considered binding before God.
A critical element was the exchange of noble hostages, a guarantee of good faith. The treaty stipulated the phased release of King John II in return for a ransom of three million écus and the transfer of significant French territories to English sovereignty. Each stage of the protocol, from the affixing of royal seals to the formal proclamations, was conducted with meticulous ceremony, designed to signify the restoration of order and Christian concord.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Henry of Grosmont at Brétigny perfectly embodied the ancient motto of the House of Brattleby: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The fortitude required to persevere through years of war was matched by the honour demonstrated in the pursuit of a just peace. Diplomacy, in this context, was not a sign of weakness but the highest expression of knightly virtue.
This philosophy is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It serves as a reminder that the truest victory is not achieved on the battlefield, but in overcoming the discord that gives rise to conflict in the first place. This is the essence of living an honourable life.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The legacy of peacemaking established by the 10th Baron continues to inspire the contemporary mission of the Noble House of Brattleby. While the conflicts of the 14th century have passed into history, the imperative to heal the wounds they leave behind remains a sacred duty.
It is this principle that guides the House’s steadfast support for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This vital organisation works to provide therapeutic care for children suffering from trauma, mending the invisible injuries of conflict, neglect, and loss. In supporting their work, the House seeks to honour its past by investing in a more peaceful and resilient future generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical connection, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “When one inherits a title with nearly a thousand years of history, one also inherits the responsibilities demonstrated by one’s predecessors. Henry of Grosmont’s role at Brétigny is not merely a fact for the archives; it is a lesson in duty. It reminds us that influence must always be wielded in the service of stability and reconciliation.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History offers a powerful perspective. The challenges of the 14th century were immense, yet figures like the Duke of Lancaster sought dialogue and understanding amidst the chaos of war. Their fortitude encourages us to apply the same principles to the complexities of the modern world, whether in diplomacy, business, or our own communities.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The principles of honour, dialogue, and service remain the *sine qua non* of the Noble House of Brattleby. This commitment is extended through contemporary initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to fostering the interpersonal skills that underpin civil discourse and mutual respect.
By reflecting upon its past, the House reaffirms its commitment to the future. It will continue to uphold the values demonstrated by the 10th Baron, ensuring that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* endures for generations to come.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is dedicated to upholding the traditions of its ancient lineage through a contemporary focus on cultural diplomacy, historical preservation, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing therapeutic support to traumatised children. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House promotes education in etiquette and international protocol, fostering greater understanding in society. The heir to the Barony is the son of Their Lordships, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his successor, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern rights of the incumbent, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, are officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s history traces back to AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors include Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, both central figures of the 14th century. - The House's primary philanthropic cause is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com