MEDIEVAL CHRISTENDOM was filled with powerful women. A few governed realms in their own right, and many others ruled as regents for an underage son or a husband on campaign. They secured international alliances by arranging their children’s marriages. When their families went to war, they raised armies.
Even day-to-day, queens shaped the world around them. They manoeuvred at court by exercising patronage and advising their husbands or sons. They supported