Talk:Alan IV, Duke of Brittany

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What an absurd biography !!! I would be quite curious to know your sources...

1) A Norman invasion of Brittany in 1086 ? William was busy in England in 1085 and 1086 waiting for a possible invasion by Cnut of Denmark, during which time he ordered the famous Domesday book enquiry. The next year, he was fighting in France and died there. Alan was not in a difficult position within his duchy, quite on the contrary. He gained victory over his last opponents in that year.

2) William gave his daughter to Alan as to seal an alliance and ensure the safety of his Western border while he was busy against other foes (Maine 1083, Cnut 1085-1086, King of France 1087).

3) The reason behind the death of Constance is not known. The rest is pure romance.

4) Alan played the key role in Henry I's victory at Tinchebray in 1106, showing his desire to maintain good relations with at least the most promising (or least threatening) of his Norman neighbours. Of course, he chose the wrong one for his dynasty's sake...

5) He was a strong headed warrior who vigorously established his rule by way of arms right from his accession, quite unlike his meek father Hoel. He remained respected until his abdication in 1112. He retired due to his poor health and lived on in a monastery until 1115.

6) In Breton, "Fergant" is a superlative of "brave", akin to Scottish "Fergus".