Great Famine of 1315–1317

Exceptional rainfall damaged grain harvests and disrupted transport across much of northern Europe. Food prices rose sharply while malnutrition and disease increased mortality.

Governments struggled to supply armies and cities. The crisis exposed the limits of royal administration and intensified conflict between rulers, nobles and communities.

The Poisoned Crown places Louis X's court against this background, contrasting dynastic intrigue with widespread hunger beyond the palace.