Epilogue

This chapter explores Geoffroy of Villehardouin's present reputation as a chronicler or historian of the Fourth Crusade and as the earliest prose writer in Old French. Geoffroy's memoirs are as remarkable as his life as they described his acts at critical junctures of the crusade and its aftermath. The chapter discusses how Geoffroy provided a precise chronology of events and invaluable observations on the internal dynamics of the crusader army, especially regarding the leadership, manpower, morale, and cohesion of the main army. It mentions modern commentators that have questioned Geoffroy's silences and omission, such as why he did not mention the machinations of Boniface and Alexios. It considers, in conclusion, Geoffroy as one of the central, and most interesting, figures of his time, who still speaks of his life and deeds through his memoirs.