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The Empress Matilda and the Queen of Stephen, 12th century
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The Empress Matilda and the Queen of Stephen, 12th century
The Empress Matilda and the Queen of Stephen, 12th century. Stephen (1096-1154), the last Norman King of England, reigned from 1135 to 1154. He supported the claim to the throne of Matilda (1102-1167), the daughter of Henry I, before usurping her when Henry died in 1135 and claiming the throne for himself. England descended into a period of civil war. Stephen was captured after he was defeated by Matildas army at the Battle of Lincoln in 1141 but was freed in an exchange for the captive Robert, Earl of Gloucester, Matildas most able lieutenant. Matildas time on the throne was brief, as a rebellion forced her to flee London. Stephen regained the throne and Matilda was besieged in Oxford, but escaped to Wallingford. The conflict dragged on until 1148 when Matilda returned to France after the Earl of Gloucester died. Eventually, in 1154, her son was crowned king as Henry II after Stephen died
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Media ID 14921904
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Action Anger Angry Court Dismissing Empress Matilda Empress Maud Empress Maude Fury King Of England King Stephen King Stephen I Law Court Matilda Maud Maude Norman Rage Refusal Refusing Rival Rivalry Stephen Stephen I Stephen Of England Throne
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in 12th-century British history. The image depicts "The Empress Matilda and the Queen of Stephen" showcasing the intense rivalry between two powerful figures, King Stephen and Matilda. Stephen, the last Norman King of England, initially supported Matilda's claim to the throne after her father's death. However, he later usurped her position and declared himself king, plunging England into a period of civil war. The Battle of Lincoln in 1141 saw Matilda's army defeat Stephen, leading to his capture. But he was eventually freed in exchange for Robert, Earl of Gloucester. Matilda's time on the throne was short-lived as rebellion forced her to flee London while Stephen regained power. She sought refuge in Oxford but ultimately escaped to Wallingford. The conflict persisted until 1148 when she returned to France following the death of Earl Gloucester. In 1154, Matilda's son Henry II ascended to the throne after Stephen passed away. This marked an end to their bitter rivalry that had plagued England for years. The print provides a glimpse into this tumultuous era with its depiction of courtly figures engaged in what appears to be a heated discussion or argument. Their expressions convey anger and defiance as they refuse each other's claims. Overall, this image serves as a reminder of the complex political landscape during medieval times and highlights the struggles faced by these influential individuals striving for power and control over England.
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