Political Thought in Iberian Educational Centres: An Excursus Through the Circulation of Books and Ideas (Thirteenth to Fifteenth Centuries)

Abstract

This paper aims to analyse the circulation of political ideas within the context of Iberian educational centres with a special focus on their contribution to the settlement of new dynasties—like the Avis in Portugal, Trastámaras in Castile, Aragon and Navarre—or the annexation of other kingdoms—like Mallorca—and the relationship with Muslim territories—Granada and the Merinid Empire. To achieve this goal, we undertake a twofold study: (i) the writings and ideas on political theory that have been read and copied in Iberian educational centres; (ii) the books of some relevant thinkers in each kingdom, looking at who, where and when their works have been used.