ABSTRACT
The sumptuous détente in 1520 between Henry VIII of England and Francis I of France known as The Field of Cloth of Gold is re-examined here through the perspective of performance theory and in particular theatricalisation. Applying this perspective draws out the complex ways national identity and power were enacted by both monarchs through a combination of scripted and unscripted meetings and the exploitation of more obviously theatrical elements, including costume and masque. Discussion of different French and English approaches reveals the importance of material clothing in the construction and interpretation of national identity. English chroniclers show how English uniformity in costume was intended to express uniformity of purpose and conformity to a Tudor model of national identity whereas French material variety was seen as indicative of moral unreliability. Examination of unscripted elements, such as the wrestling match between the kings and the performance of gift exchange, reveals how the rivals sought to outmanoeuvre each other in a competition of royal prestige. This was a high-risk strategy, promising a boost in personal reputation if successful. Reading this extravaganza through the lens of theatricalisation underlines how the performance of national and individual selves was integral to the political negotiations.
