Tres cartas del príncipe Baltasar Carlos a Sor María de Ágreda // Three Letters from Prince Baltasar Carlos to Sor María de Ágreda

Abstract

The letters examined in this note are three of the few known documents signed by Prince Baltasar Carlos during his short life (1629–1646). Like the other members of his family, the Prince corresponded with the well-known nun Sor María de Ágreda; however, only his letters remain. These are important because they coincide with the final months of his life and address three events crucial to the monarchy’s future: the Prince’s poor health, the death of his aunt the Empress, and the marriage arrangement with his cousin Mariana of Austria. The letters also show how essential Sor María’s religious support was as the royal family’s spiritual adviser.

Keywords

• Baltasar Carlos
• Sor María de Ágreda
• autographed letters
• health
• marriage
• death