Early Plantagenet Queens

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The Plantagenet queens of England were pivotal figures in some of history's most dramatic events. These queens—crusaders, rebels, seductresses, and learned leaders—often defied medieval constraints to wield power and influence, impacting their era for better or worse. Alison Weir's groundbreaking history delves into a tumultuous period from 1154 to 1291, characterized by chivalry, dynastic ambition, church conflicts, baronial wars, and feudalism. Key events like the murder of Becket, Magna Carta, and the emergence of parliaments are examined through a fresh lens. The narrative begins with Eleanor of Aquitaine, whose marriage to Henry II initiates a dynasty that dominates for over three centuries, simultaneously igniting destructive family rivalries and leading to England's diminished power under her son, King John. The subsequent queens—Berengaria of Navarre, Isabella of Angouleme, Alienor of Provence, and Eleanor of Castile—each have remarkable stories that further illuminate this era. Weir's account offers an enthralling perspective on a time marked by high romance and low politics, showcasing the significant roles played by these determined women.