User:CarterW17/Matilda I, Countess of Boulogne

Matilda is a representation for female lordship in the middle ages and is a great example of how a Queen ruled in the absence of a male figure. The Historiography of Matilda I, provides powerful information on complexities of researching the lives of medieval noblewomen. While Matilda is not as well-known as other medieval figures or leaders, her story is still a valuable part of the Middle Ages and medieval England and France. It is important to note that the historiography of Matilda I is very limited compared to more famous Middle Age figures.

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Pronounced "king"

Knight's templar

Matilda’s power of being a dominant feudal landholder gained popularity with the locals and also being married to the anointed king Stephen.The 12th century also started the second Crusade, which were a series of multiple religious and military campaigns to the Holy Land. These campaigns had significant political and social impacts across the middle and Southern parts of Europe, including the region under Matilda I's rule. In a patriarchal, male dominated society, this gives major credit and recognition to Matilda for having the ability to wield power even when threatened by gender norms in the Middle Ages.

Add subsection on Feudal System

The historical context during Matilda I's rule was noticeable by her involvement and use of English politics during the Anarchy provided an extra layer of complexity to her rule. Another large area Matilda had to navigate was the Feudal System. The Feudal System was the social, political, and economic structure during Matilda's time and reign. Matilda  involved and used a hierarchical arrangement of lords, vassals, and serfs, as well as land ownership as the basis of power and influence.

Sources

Bolton, Brenda and Christine Meek. In Aspects of Power and Authority in the Middle Ages, (London: Brepols Publishing, 2008


 * Erler, Mary and Maryanne Kowaleski. Women and Power in the Middle Ages. Athens: University of Georgia Press, 1988, 2.