Mit dem Löwen im Wappen

Jan Šmíd (1921–2002), popular author of detective and humorous novels, between 1989 and 1999 released a series of novels from the era of the reign of the Luxembourgs on the Czech throne, the most famous of which was the opening work on John of Luxembourg With a Lion on the Shield. The author relies on his extensive study of literature and sources, introducing readers to contemporary developments in Europe and the complex web of diplomatic and dynastic relations and contemporary life. And so a complex portrait of a European monarch of the first half of the 14th century arises, complete with a sense for the psychological characteristics and dramaticism of epic narrative. The figure of John of Luxembourg thus exceeds the normal portrayal from the perspective of Czech history and is shown in a wider European context.