The Unstoppable Empress Matilda: Chains, Castles, and Courage

In this episode of 'She Changed History,' the hosts delve into the story of Empress Matilda, an inspiring historical figure who fought valiantly for her rightful place on the English throne. Despite living in a time dominated by men, Matilda's perseverance, strategic mind, and leadership qualities led her to challenge King Stephen in a prolonged civil conflict known as 'The Anarchy.' Listeners will learn about Matilda's battles, her alliances with powerful figures, and how she ultimately ensured her legacy continued through her son, Henry II. The episode highlights her determination and resilience, providing a captivating look at medieval English history.

Sources today are:
https://retrospectjournal.com/2022/10/31/empress-matilda-what-happened-to-englands-first-female-heir/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etng7e53UFw

Beem, C. (2015). The Virtuous Virago: The Empress Matilda and the Politics of Womanhood in Twelfth-Century England . In C. Levin, Queenship and Power (pp. 85-99). New York: St Martins Press LLC. 

Castor, D. H. (Director). (2012). She Wolves: Englands Early Queens, Episode 1 [Motion Picture]. 

Lys, L. (2021, July 19). Empress Matilda: Lady of the English. Retrieved from Museum of Oxford: https://museumofoxford.org/empress-matilda-lady-of-the-english/

https://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofEngland/King-Stephen-Anarchy/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Anarchy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/King_of_the_Romans

00:00 Introduction and Casual Conversation
01:49 Welcome to She Changed History
02:03 The Unstoppable Empress Matilda
04:54 Matilda's Early Life and Marriage
07:24 The White Ship Disaster and Its Aftermath
14:05 Matilda's Struggle for the Throne
15:36 Stephen's Betrayal and Rise to Power
21:36 The Anarchy: Civil War in England
22:41 The Brutal Reality of Medieval Warfare
23:32 Matilda's Appeal to the Pope and Invasion of England
26:40 The Battle of Lincoln and Matilda's Temporary Victory
28:34 Matilda's Struggle for Recognition and the Flip-Flopping Nobles
31:06 The Stalemate and Matilda's Strategic Shift
39:24 The Final Years and Legacy of Empress Matilda
42:45 Conclusion and Reflections on Gender and Power