Women of the Anarchy

Stephen of Blois stole the throne from his cousin Empress Matilda in 1135, leading to the Anarchy, a nineteen-year civil war. Empress Matilda fought for her birthright and that of her children, while Queen Matilda supported her husband, Stephen. Both women were descendants of St Margaret and Alfred the Great and were key players in the conflict. Women of the Anarchy explores how their strengths, weaknesses, and personal ambitions influenced the course of the war.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 15 January 2024
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

In 1135, a significant event unfolded that marked a turning point in English history. Stephen of Blois, a relative of Empress Matilda, unlawfully seized the throne, usurping it from his cousin. This act ignited a nineteen-year civil war, known as the Anarchy, which would become one of the most turbulent and bloodiest periods in English history.

On one side of the conflict stood Empress Matilda, the sole surviving legitimate child of Henry I. She valiantly fought for her birthright and the rights of her children, determined to reclaim the throne that was rightfully hers. Alongside her was Queen Matilda, her cousin, who supported her husband, Stephen, and fiercely advocated for her own son to inherit the English crown. Both women hailed from illustrious lineage, being granddaughters of St Margaret, Queen of Scotland, and descendants of Alfred the Great of Wessex.

Empress Matilda made history by being the first woman to claim the throne of England in her own right. However, her efforts to secure the support of the barons were met with resistance. When Queen Matilda's husband, King Stephen, was captured by the Empress's forces, it fell upon her to continue the fight and negotiate for his release. Despite lacking the physical strength to wield a sword, these women played pivotal roles in shaping the course of the war.

Women of the Anarchy delves into the lives and experiences of these women, shedding light on their strengths, weaknesses, and personal ambitions. It explores how their actions and decisions influenced the fortunes of the war, swinging it one way and then another. Through their stories, the book highlights the significant contributions made by women during this period of conflict and lawlessness, challenging traditional narratives and highlighting the resilience and determination of these remarkable women.

Weight: 624g
Dimension: 166 x 244 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781445691718