Battle of Chizé
Hundred Years' War · Chizé, Poitou (France)
Summary
As John of Gaunt leads a massive chevauchée from north to south across France, the French manage to harass his rearguard near Chizé. A coordinated attack by royal forces surprises the English and inflicts severe losses.
Historical context
This battle occurs in a context of French counteroffensive. After Poitiers, the English multiply raids, but France, under Charles V, adopts a strategy of harassment and attrition with Du Guesclin as constable.
Tactics
Bertrand du Guesclin, commanding around 600 men entrenched before Chizé castle, leaves wine carts on the path of the English, which John Devereux's 800-man relief force seizes and consumes. Du Guesclin then launches a surprise attack: the drunken English are defeated, and a sortie from the castle is in turn trapped by troops hidden behind the palisade.
Consequences
French tactical success, partial demoralization of English troops. John of Gaunt is forced to continue his march under difficult conditions. Reinforces Du Guesclin's prestige and marks a turning point in the French reconquest.