Berengaria of Navarre: Queen of England, Lord of Le Mans

This book explores the life of Berengaria of Navarre, who was queen of England and lord of Le Mans, focusing on her political career and personal relationships. It discusses her journey from a Navarrese infanta to her marriage and the Third Crusade, and her reign and early years as dowager queen in the context of the Anglo-French conflict and domestic disputes. It is an ideal resource for scholars and those interested in the history of gender, queenship, lordship, and Western Europe in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 03 June 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Berengaria of Navarre, a remarkable figure in medieval history, held the dual titles of queen of England from 1191 to 1199 and lord of Le Mans from 1204 to 1230. Despite her significant contributions, her life has received limited attention from Navarrese, Anglophone, and French perspectives in terms of a comprehensive biography. This book aims to rectify that by delving into her political career while utilizing the surviving documentation to showcase her personal and familial relationships and life as a dowager queen.

Born as the infanta of Navarre in the northern Iberian kingdom, Berengaria's journey took her across Europe. In 1191, she embarked on a remarkable expedition to marry King Philip II of France, a union that would shape her destiny. After their marriage, Berengaria accompanied her husband to the Third Crusade, a holy war aimed at reclaiming the Holy Land from Muslim control. Her journey through Sicily, Cyprus, and ultimately to the Holy Land in 1191 is a testament to her courage and determination.

Berengaria's reign and early years as a dowager queen were marked by significant events and conflicts. During her reign, she faced challenges both within England and in her relationships with neighboring countries. The Anglo-French conflict, in particular, played a pivotal role in shaping her political career. Berengaria's decision to negotiate with King Philip Augustus of France and become the lord of Le Mans is a notable highlight of her life. This decision not only elevated her status but also had a lasting impact on local memory and historical narratives.

The volume unfolds chronologically, discussing Berengaria's roles as an infanta, queen, dowager, and lord. It serves as an invaluable resource for scholars and enthusiasts interested in the history of gender, queenship, lordship, and Western Europe during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. By examining Berengaria's life and contributions, this book sheds light on the complex dynamics of medieval society and the remarkable achievements of women in a male-dominated world.

In conclusion, Berengaria of Navarre's life is a captivating tale of ambition, courage, and resilience. This biography offers a fresh perspective on her political career and personal relationships, providing a deeper understanding of her remarkable journey from a Navarrese infanta to a powerful lord. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of women in medieval history and a valuable resource for scholars and history enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 127 x 198 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032121475