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Matilda

Empress, Queen, Warrior
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( 924 ratings, 127 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Matilda by Catherine Hanley provides a gripping historical account of the life of Empress Matilda, one of the most formidable women of the medieval period. The book delves into her struggle for the English throne during the 12th century, highlighting her strategies, resilience, and the turbulent political landscape. It offers a vivid portrayal of medieval England and the challenges Matilda faced in her quest for power.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3099
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

If you're fascinated by medieval history with a strong focus on powerful female figures, you might enjoy this book as it delves into the life of a remarkable woman who fought for her right to rule in a male-dominated society. It captures the complexities of political intrigue and examines the resilience and determination of its central character, making it a compelling read for those interested in history and military strategy.

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A life of Matilda—empress, skilled military leader, and one of the greatest figures of the English Middle Ages

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A life of Matilda—empress, skilled military leader, and one of the greatest figures of the English Middle Ages

Matilda will attract a growing audience interested in stories of women challenging the male-dominated European past.”—Alexandra Locking, Medieval Review

“A lively and authoritative account.”—Katherine Harvey, Times Literary Supplement

Matilda was a daughter, wife, and mother. But she was also empress, heir to the English crown—the first woman ever to hold the position—and an able military general.

This new biography explores Matilda’s achievements as military and political leader, and sets her life and career in full context. Catherine Hanley provides fresh insight into Matilda's campaign to claim the title of queen, her approach to allied kingdoms and rival rulers, and her role in the succession crisis.

Hanley highlights how Matilda fought for the throne, and argues that although she never sat on it herself, her reward was to see her son become king. Extraordinarily, her line has continued through every single monarch of England or Britain from that time to the present day.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Reviews describe Matilda by Catherine Hanley as an impressive and lively biography that successfully combines scholarly analysis with engaging narrative. The book is praised for its accessibility, offering an authoritative and illuminating account of Matilda's life and her significant role in medieval politics. It captures her personal struggles and achievements, making it essential for readers interested in understanding this pivotal historical figure.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780300251470

Publisher: Yale University Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 11 February 2020

Country: United States

Imprint: Yale University Press

Illustration: 21 b-w illus.

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 127.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 296

About the Author

Catherine Hanley is a writer and researcher specializing in the Middle Ages. She is the author of Louis and War and Combat, 1150–1270 and a contributor to the Oxford Encyclopedia of Medieval Warfare and Military Technology.

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