Final answer:
The illuminated manuscript commissioned by Queen Blanche of Castile was intended to educate her son, 1) King Louis IX, for his future role as a ruler. It combined religious texts with advice to project power and affluence, reassuring subjects of wise and prepared leadership.
Step-by-step explanation:
The illuminated manuscript commissioned by Queen Blanche of Castile primarily served as an educational tool for her son, 1) King Louis IX, providing him with guidance for his future rule. This luxurious manuscript, known as the Bible Moralisée, was created in the 13th century and features advising text intertwined with religious imagery.
Dedicated theologians selected by Blanche worked intricately to produce this piece, ensuring the young king would be steeped in biblical wisdom and moral guidance, which was believed to support his journey towards sainthood, recognized by Pope Boniface VIII.
The production of such manuscripts during this era was not only to educate but also to assert the power and wealth of the monarchy. The use of lavish materials like gold ink and purple-dyed vellum, combined with the detailed artwork, projected an image of supreme culture and affluence.
The manuscript hence would reassure the nobility and common folk of the capable and well-prepared leadership ruling over them.