Imperial Ladies of the Ottonian Dynasty

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In tenth-century Germany, imperial women like Theophanu and Adelheid emerged as powerful figures, significantly influencing the Ottonian reich alongside their husbands. Phyllis G. Jestice explores the societal factors that contributed to their authority, including wealth, royal status, and curated public images of piety. Their strategic actions during the throne struggle of 984, particularly in reclaiming control of young Otto III against Henry the Quarrelsome, challenge traditional views of gender roles and highlight the impactful lives of these Ottonian women.