The language used in medieval letters was heavily influenced by Latin, the language of the Church and academia. While many letters were written in Latin, particularly those related to religious or legal matters, others were written in Old French or English, depending on the social status of the sender and the recipient. In the 13th and 14th centuries, English began to emerge as a more widely used language for correspondence, although Latin remained dominant for many official and ecclesiastical documents.
The tone and style of letters varied depending on their intended purpose. Letters could be personal, such as those between family members or friends, or they could be official, like royal decrees or diplomatic missives. Royal letters, for example, often employed a formal and commanding tone, while personal letters might reflect warmth and affection, especially in letters between kings and their wives or between close allies.
Types of Medieval Letters
There were several different types of letters in medieval England, each serving a specific purpose. Below are some of the most important categories of medieval letters:
1. Royal Letters
Royal letters were perhaps the most significant and authoritative of all medieval documents. Kings and queens often issued letters to communicate with their subjects, inform them of new laws, or issue royal commands. These letters could be addressed to individuals or to the general public. They were also used to announce important events, such as the granting of titles, land, or privileges, and to ensure that the monarchy’s policies were being enforced throughout the kingdom.
One of the most famous examples of a royal letter is the Magna Carta, a document issued by King John of England in 1215. Although it was a charter rather than a letter in the traditional sense, it was a written communication intended to address the grievances of the barons and lay down the principles of English law. Royal letters were often sealed with the king’s personal seal, which served as a mark of authenticity and authority.
2. Diplomatic and Political Letters
Diplomatic correspondence was another vital form of letter-writing in medieval England. Kings, queens, and their representatives regularly wrote letters to foreign monarchs, nobility, and religious leaders. These letters were used to negotiate treaties, form alliances, and resolve conflicts. They often contained delicate language and careful phrasing, as the sender sought to balance diplomacy with assertiveness.
One of the most famous diplomatic letters from medieval England is that of King Henry II to Pope Alexander III in the late 12th century. This letter, in which Henry attempts to negotiate the terms of his relationship with the Church, exemplifies the importance of diplomacy and political correspondence in maintaining power and influence across Europe shutdown123