Coronation of Charles V
Charles V of France is being formally crowned in Reims Cathedral, marking the culmination of his rise to power after years of political turmoil and war with England. The Archbishop of Reims anoints hi
Setting
Reims Cathedral, specifically the grand nave and choir area where the coronation ceremony takes place. The high Gothic arches soar overhead, and the space is filled with the nobility, clergy, and dignitaries of France.
Characters
Charles V of France
primary
A young man of 26 years with a slender but regal bearing, his fair complexion flushed with the gravity of the occasion. His dark brown eyes are sharp and intelligent beneath arched brows, and his clean-shaven face is framed by shoulder-length chestnut hair. His hands, extended for the anointing, are delicate but strong.
Archbishop of Reims
primary
A tall, gaunt man in his late 60s with a deeply lined face that speaks of both wisdom and austerity. His piercing blue eyes are framed by thin silver brows, and his hands are long-fingered with prominent veins—hands accustomed to holding sacred texts and performing rites. His posture remains erect despite his years, conveying both spiritual authority and physical endurance.
Queen Jeanne de Bourbon
secondary
A regal woman in her late 20s, with a slender yet dignified frame. Her pale complexion is framed by dark brown hair partially covered by her veil, and her high cheekbones give her an aristocratic bearing. Her hands are delicate, clasped in prayer or resting lightly on her lap.
Bishop
secondary
A middle-aged clergyman with a lean build, clean-shaven face, and deep-set eyes that reflect years of devotion. His hands are slightly weathered from years of holding sacred objects, and his posture is upright with a slight forward lean, indicating both reverence and attentiveness to his duties.
Nobleman
background
A middle-aged nobleman with a sharp, angular face, clean-shaven with neatly trimmed dark brown hair that grays slightly at the temples. His piercing blue eyes convey both intelligence and calculation. He has a lean but strong build, indicative of a life spent in both courtly leisure and martial training.
Dialog
Archbishop of Reims
Ungo te in regem de oleo sanctificato, sicut unxit Samuel David in regem Israël...
Charles V of France
Suscipe, Domine, hanc coronam... que per te mihi tribuitur, ut per me tuum servitium exerceatur.
Archbishop of Reims
Sicut oleum effusum nomen tuum, carissime fili... may your reign be as fragrant before God as this holy chrism.
Charles V of France
Par la grâce de Dieu et le sacre de cette sainte onction, je jure de garder les lois et coutumes du royaume.
Archbishop of Reims
Accipe coronam gloriæ... may the weight of this diadem remind thee daily of the burdens of justice.