Manfred Is Defeated at Benevento

Manfred Is Defeated at Benevento was the decisive turning point that brought Charles I of Anjou control of Sicily after the death of Frederick II. In Emilia’s embedded account of Madam Beritola’s family, the battle’s outcome sets off a rapid change of allegiance and turns the political crisis into a personal catastrophe for Arrighetto Capece and his household.

Background and Stakes

After Frederick II died, Manfred was crowned King of Sicily. Arrighetto Capece, a Neapolitan gentleman who held the governance of the island, served in Manfred’s regime. His position tied the fortunes of his household to a kingdom whose political loyalty was about to shift.

Defeat and Change of Rule

Charles I of Anjou overcame and killed Manfred at Benevento. The account presents the defeat as more than the loss of a battle: the whole realm revolted to Charles, and possession of the island passed with the change of power. The speed of that reversal left Manfred’s supporters exposed to the new ruler.

Immediate Consequences

Hearing of Manfred’s defeat and the realm’s revolt, Arrighetto prepared to flee rather than become a subject of his lord’s enemy. The Sicilians discovered his intention and suddenly imprisoned him, along with other friends and servants of Manfred, then delivered them to Charles together with possession of the island. The attempted escape thus became part of the transfer of power, while Arrighetto’s capture precipitated the separation and flight that shape Madam Beritola’s story.