How Did Eleanor Of Aquitaine Change Europe

668 Words2 Pages

Eleanor of Aquitaine (ca. 1122-1204) had a tremendous impact in the 12th century; Europe became a completely different place after Eleanor’s reign. She changed the way that women were seen and treated at that time. She ignored the traditional values and expectations people had towards women. Women were considered to be submissive and had numerous limitations. In addition, she greatly contributed to art and poetry.
Eleanor was the daughter of one of the wealthiest Dukes: Willian X. For that reason, growing up, she had an excellent education. She was only fifteen years old when her father died and since he had no successors, Eleanor inherited all of his affairs. After taking the throne, she became one of the most desirable woman in Europe.
Short after Eleanor’s father’s death, she married King Louis …show more content…

At that time, their marriage started to fall apart. King Louis wished for a son to be his successor but unfortunately, Queen Eleanor only conceived two daughters. Their marriage was revoked and historians believe that one of the biggest reason they got divorced was because Eleanor couldn’t conceive a son.
Right after the divorce, Eleanor retained her power in Aquitaine and didn’t wait too long before marrying Henry Plantagenet. He was the Count of Anjou and also, the Duke of Normandy. He became the King of England and together they managed to solidify the relations between England, Normandy and Western France.
After many years of marriage and eight children, Eleanor was displeased with King’s Henry’s love affairs so she decided to bring their three older sons against him. Their rebellion was unsuccessful causing Henry II to place Eleanor in a semi imprisonment in England.
King Henry II died leaving the throne to his son Phillip who immediately freed his mother, Queen Eleanor, from semi incarceration. Once free, she took over the throne and ruled while King Richard left, against his mother’s wish, to the third

More about How Did Eleanor Of Aquitaine Change Europe

Open Document