Ramon Muntaner

thumb| Ramon Muntaner (1265 – 1336) was a Catalan mercenary and writer who wrote the Crònica, a chronicle of his life, including his adventures as a commander in the Catalan Company. He was born at Peralada. Quotes Did the subjects of our kings know how hard and cruel other monarchs are to their people, they would kiss the prints of their lords' feet. Were I asked, "Muntaner, what kindness do the kings of Aragon show to their subjects more than other kings?" I would answer, Firstly, they make their nobles, prelates, knights, citizens, burgesses, and country-folk observe justice and good faith, better than any other lords on the face of the earth; each may become rich without his fearing that any thing will be exacted of him beyond what is reasonable and just, which is not so with other lords; also, the Catalans and the Aragonese have loftier sentiments. Moreover, their subjects have this advantage, that each can say to his lord whatever he desires, being very certain of being ever listened to with kindness, and of receiving a satisfactory reply. On the other hand, if a rich man, a knight, or honest citizen, desire to marry his daughter, and prays them to honor the ceremony with their presence, they will repair either to the church, or elsewhere; in like manner, they will attend the burial or the birthday of any man, as if he were a relative; which, assuredly, other lords, whoever they may be, do not. Besides, on great festivals, they invite a number of worthy people, and make no difficulty of taking their meal in public; and all who are invited eat there, which happens nowhere else. Then, if rich men, knights, prelates, citizens, burgesses, laborers, or others, make them presents, of fruits, wine, or other objects, they will not hesitate to partake of them; and in castles, cities, hamlets, and farm-steadings they accept the invitations given them, eat what is laid before them, and sleep in the chambers designed for them; they also go out on horseback in all towns, places, and cities, and show themselves to their people; and if poor souls, men or women, entreat them, they stop, listen to them, and aid them in their wants. What more can I say? They are so good and affectionate to their subjects, that one cannot describe all, so much would there be to do; and so their subjects are full of love for them, and fear not to die to exalt their honor and power; and nothing can stay them when it behooveth to endure cold and heat, and to brave every danger. Crònica, vol. 1, ch. 20, p. 60, of M. Buchon's French translation. Reported in: Jules Michelet, History of France, translated by G. H. Smith, vol. 1 (New York: D. Appleton and Company, 1882), p. 337 External links Category:Historians from Spain Category:Chroniclers Category:People of the Crusades