Although Matilda never achieved her coronation as queen, her legacy is profound. The Anarchy finally ended with the Treaty of Wallingford in 1153, which recognized her son, Henry of Anjou (later Henry II), as Stephen’s heir. When Stephen died in 1154, Henry II ascended the throne, founding the Plantagenet dynasty that would rule England for centu

Following the death of her brother in 1120, Henry I had no surviving legitimate male heirs. Determined to secure the succession, he made his barons swear allegiance to Matilda as his heir. This unprecedented act set the stage for a monumental succession crisis after Henry’s death in 1135. Upon Henry I’s death, Matilda’s cousin Stephen of B

Empress Matilda (c. 1102 – 1167) stands as one of the most remarkable and complex figures in medieval English history. As the daughter of King Henry I of England and a claimant to the English throne during a turbulent period, her life encapsulates the struggles of royal succession, female authority, and political power in the 12th century. Known

Medieval illuminated manuscripts are invaluable for understanding the Middle Ages. They shed light on: Literacy and Education: Manuscripts reveal who could read and write, how texts were transmitted, and the intellectual climate of the time. Religious Life: The prominence of biblical scenes reflects the centrality of religion. Artis