Philip the Fair

Philip the Fair, the king of France, finds himself in financial straits and looks to the prosperous cities of Flanders as a potential source of revenue. However, the Flemish burghers staunchly refuse to comply with the taxes he imposes, prompting Philip to respond with military force. His campaign is met with such fierce resistance that he ultimately concedes defeat, unable to subjugate the fiercely independent population of Flanders.

Joanna of Navarre

Joanna of Navarre, the queen of France, harbors a deep-seated animosity towards the Flemish. Her disdain influences King Philip to act dishonorably, straining his relationship with his brother, Charles de Valois, and creating further discord within the royal family.

Count Guy of Flanders

Count Guy of Flanders, a loyal vassal of Philip the Fair, becomes a victim of the king’s wrath. Imprisoned by Philip, he nonetheless becomes a symbol and rallying point for the movement advocating for Flemish independence. Tragically, Count Guy dies in captivity before a peace treaty is reached between Flanders and France.

Count Robert de Bethune

Known as the "Lion of Flanders," Count Robert de Bethune is the valiant son of Count Guy of Flanders. Initially imprisoned alongside his father by Philip the Fair, he is temporarily freed when Adolf of Niewland volunteers to take his place. During this period of liberty, Robert orchestrates the Flemish resistance and ultimately leads them to triumph over the French forces. Following the signing of the peace treaty, he is released from captivity and assumes leadership as the ruler of Flanders.

Adolf of Niewland

Adolf of Niewland is a courageous Flemish knight who sacrifices his freedom to serve as a hostage in place of Count Robert de Bethune. Demonstrating unwavering dedication, he protects and eventually marries Lady Matilda, reinforcing his commitment to the Flemish cause.

Peter Deconinck

Peter Deconinck serves as the dean of the cloth-workers’ guild in Bruges. His leadership and unwavering commitment to Flemish sovereignty earn him recognition and knighthood at the hands of Count Robert de Bethune.

Jan Breydel

Jan Breydel, the devoted dean of the butchers’ guild, plays a crucial role in the struggle for Flemish independence. His efforts are rewarded when Count Robert de Bethune bestows knighthood upon him for his vital contributions to the cause.

Lady Matilda

Lady Matilda, the daughter of Count Robert de Bethune, becomes romantically involved with Adolf of Niewland. Their union is fortified through marriage, symbolizing a personal alliance that mirrors the broader struggle for Flemish autonomy.

Philippa

Philippa, the daughter of Count Guy of Flanders, suffers the cruel fate of imprisonment at the hands of the French. Her tragic end comes when she is poisoned while still incarcerated, a stark reminder of the harsh realities faced by those caught in the conflict.

Sir Diederik die Vos

Sir Diederik die Vos, known as The Fox, is a cunning Flemish noble who successfully escapes imprisonment in France. Disguised as a friar, he brings crucial news that Count Robert de Bethune’s release could be negotiated if someone takes his place in captivity.

Lord Guy

Lord Guy, the younger sibling of Count Robert de Bethune, supports his brother’s endeavors and plays a part in the broader narrative of Flemish resistance against French domination.

Count Robert d’Artois

Count Robert d’Artois leads the French forces into battle, only to face defeat at the hands of the Flemish at the Battle of Courtrai. His leadership ultimately falls short against the resilient opposition.

Charles de Valois

Charles de Valois, brother to King Philip, aspires to mediate peace between the Flemish nobles and the French crown. However, his intentions are thwarted by Philip’s betrayal, exacerbating the tension and conflict between the two factions.