Though marriages were political, many queens experienced romantic liaisons outside wedlock, some documented and others whispered in court gossip. Such relationships could empower queens or ruin them. Mistresses and Favorites: Queens sometimes had close female companions, and rumors of same-sex relationships existed, though these are debated by

Known as the “She-Wolf of France,” Isabella was queen consort to Edward II of England. Their marriage was troubled, largely due to Edward’s favoritism toward his male companions and neglect of Isabella. This ignited a political and personal crisis. Isabella’s famous love affair with Roger Mortimer, a nobleman exiled for rebellion, was sc

The Middle Ages, spanning roughly from the 5th to the late 15th century, was a time when monarchy shaped the destiny of nations and dynasties. Queens in this era were often seen primarily as political figures, consorts, and bearers of heirs. Yet behind the veils of royal protocol, the love lives of queens were complex tapestries of passion, allianc

The crux of the conflict between Henry II and Thomas Becket revolved around the rights and privileges of the Church. Henry sought to reduce ecclesiastical immunities, especially regarding the jurisdiction over clergy accused of crimes. The king wanted clergy to be tried in royal courts rather than Church courts, which often granted them leniency.